We’re pleased to share some exciting updates aimed at enhancing the quality of our online courses at NIU. Quality Matters (QM), a leader in online course quality assurance, released their 7th edition higher education rubric. This latest iteration of the rubric introduces enriched guidelines, with a special focus on critical areas such as diversity, accessibility, fostering regular and substantive interaction, and upholding academic integrity. To reflect these changes from QM, the NIU Quality Essential Standards for online courses have also been updated.
Faculty are invited to review the updated NIU Quality Essential Standards for online courses and to participate in a Quality Essentials Course Review. During the course review process, faculty conduct a detailed self-review of their own courses, then submit that review for additional review and feedback by a CITL staff member. The Quality Essentials Course Review process is also an integral part of the Excellence in Online Teaching Award, and all courses that meet the Essential Standards will be recognized as an NIU Quality Essential Course.
On a related note, we’re excited to announce that on Friday, November 3rd, NIU will host the Applying the Quality Matters Rubric Workshop (APPQMR). This comprehensive, day-long, in-person event will include a complimentary lunch for attendees. The APPQMR workshop serves as an ideal platform for those seeking to learn more about online course quality and the QM rubric and course review process, as well as for those who wish to become a certified Peer Course Reviewer. Upon successful completion of the workshop, participants will be issued a QM certificate. Please be sure visit the APPQMR sign-up page for additional information.
