Walsh University’s commitment to providing students with an exceptional online learning experience has once again been recognized by the international leader for quality assurance in online and innovative digital teaching and learning environments, Quality Matters (QM). The HIST 103 online course is Walsh’s second course certified by Quality Matters in 2020.
The certification is the result of Walsh University’s dedication to continuous improvement, including the innovative work of Walsh Professor of History Kelly D. Mezurek, Ph.D., and Senior Instructional Designer/Walsh University QM Coordinator Mary Beth Messner. Dr. Mezurek designed the History of the United States to 1877 course with embedded mini-lessons called “Transferable Skills Used by Historians” within each of the course’s eight weekly lessons, where reading, writing or analytical and interpretive skills are taught.
“These mini-lessons help students to not only master U.S. History, but they also introduce skills that can apply both academically and professionally,” said Dr. Mezurek.
An external team of three reviewers reviewed the course and found that it met all essential standards to be recognized as meeting a national benchmark for quality course design. Reviews are conducted by QM-Certified Reviewers, use the Quality Matters Rubric, and associated Standards, which are based on research and best practices. A course earns the QM Certification Mark once it meets QM Rubric Standards at the 85% threshold or better and meets all Essential Standards.
The course is now listed on the QM directory of certified courses.
The Quality Matters Higher Education Rubric reviews course elements in eight areas: Course Overview and Introduction, Learning Objectives (Competencies), Assessment and Measurement, Instructional Materials, Learning Activities and Learner Interaction, Course Technology, Learner Support, and Accessibility and Usability.
About Quality Matters
Quality Matters (QM) is the global organization leading quality assurance in online and innovative digital teaching and learning environments. It provides a scalable quality assurance system for online and blended learning used within and across organizations. When you see QM Certification Marks on courses or programs, it means they have met QM Course Design Standards or QM Program Review Criteria in a rigorous review process.
