Quality Control in Online Courses: Using a Social Constructivist Framework

Authors

Heidi Schweizer, Marquette UniversityFollow
Joan Whipp, Marquette UniversityFollow
Carrianne H. Hayslett, Marquette UniversityFollow

Document Type

Article

Language

eng

Format of Original

16 p.

Publication Date

2002

Publisher

Taylor & Francis (Routledge)

Source Publication

Computers in the Schools

Source ISSN

0738-0569

Abstract

There has recently been increased interest in the quality of online courses. Faculty from the School of Education at Marquette University suggest using social constructivist theories in the design and development of online courses and in the training and pedagogy of online instructors to ensure quality in online courses. Quality can be designed into online courses by focusing on complex tasks, using multiple perspectives, establishing a learning community, encouraging the social negotiation of meaning and providing assistance for learners at various levels. While good design can go a long way to ensure quality in online courses, the quality of the instructor is equally critical. Training instructors to establish a supportive climate, provide constructive feedback, and ask critical and probing questions leads to high quality online instruction.

Comments

Accepted version. Computers in the Schools, Vol. 19, No. 3-4 (September 08, 2006): 143-158. DOI. © 2006 Taylor & Francis (Haworth Press). Used with permission.

Recommended Citation

Schweizer, Heidi; Whipp, Joan; and Hayslett, Carrianne H., "Quality Control in Online Courses: Using a Social Constructivist Framework" (2002). College of Education Faculty Research and Publications. 70.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/edu_fac/70