Evaluating Online Programs

Abstract

Systematic formative and summative evaluation of distance education programs is necessary for program improvement and accountability. The most frequently cited reference for best practices comes from the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE). WICHE (1997) has published a number of documents, including Good Practices in Distance Education (WCET, 1997, Publication Number 2A299). Principles of Good Practice was also developed by the Southern Region Education Board (SREB) (2003) to assess program quality. Both WICHE and SREB offer the following principles for best practices in distance education: curriculum and instruction; institutional context and commitment; and evaluation and assessment.