SRTC Procedure: Quality Assurance for Distance Education

Purpose

The purpose of the Southern Regional Technical College (SRTC) Procedure: Quality Assurance for Distance Education is to provide instructor training and support and periodic quality assurance reviews of distance education course offerings through the following steps.

STEP 1 - Instructor Training

The instructor is trained in distance learning methodology to include the learning management system (LMS) and related software either by a Georgia Online Learning & Development (GOLD) certified trainer or the SRTC Distance Education Department.

STEP 2 - Course Development

The instructor develops the distance education course. The SRTC Distance Education Department provides support as needed.

STEP 3 - Course Delivery

Once completed, the course is piloted or taught to students. Courses are evaluated by designated reviewers using the current version of the GOLD Standard in Course Design Rubric and the SRTC Master Course Review form. The rubric and review form are periodically reviewed and updated to ensure alignment with evolving best practices in teaching and learning, the availability of instructional tools, and opportunities for student engagement and success. The review addresses instructional design, learner assessment, technology, and course content, ensuring the course is aligned with the Technical College System of Georgia’s (TCSG) standards. The completed reviews are sent to the appropriate Program Chair and Dean for Academic Affairs. The Program Chairs are responsible for course revisions, and the Director of Distance Education or the appropriate Dean for Academic Affairs is responsible for follow-up reviews.

STEP 4 - Periodic Reviews

Periodic reviews are scheduled at the discretion of the Director of Distance Education, the appropriate Dean for Academic Affairs, or the Vice President for Academic Affairs. Courses are reviewed by the designated reviewer(s) utilizing the SRTC Master Course Review form. The completed reviews are sent to the appropriate Program Chair and Dean for Academic Affairs. The Program Chairs are responsible for course revisions, and the Director of Distance Education or the appropriate Dean for Academic Affairs is responsible for follow-up reviews.

Responsibility

The Vice President for Academic Affairs has the overall responsibility for ensuring this procedure is implemented.

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