Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) has published quality assurance (QA) guidelines for all providers of blended learning programmes.
QQI define blended learning as “the integration of classroom face-to-face learning experiences with online learning experiences,” Garrison and Kanuka (2004).
“the integration of classroom face-to-face learning experiences with online learning experiences”
The blended learning quality assurance guidelines support providers of blended learning programmes to incorporate digital learning into their programmes. Blended learning typically combines a mix of face-to-face and digital teaching methods.
The guidelines provide guidance to providers on the quality assurance and enhancement of blended learning where learners, for part of their programme of study, may be physically remote from:
- Other learners
- Teachers and assessors
- The provider institution, or
- Learning resources and support services.
Innovation in educational technology has expanded options for flexible learning experiences. For example, online learning, mobile and digital technologies, social media, and MOOCs. The guidelines are designed be used by providers to design, establish, evaluate, maintain or review quality assurance procedures for blended learning. They do not cover programmes where learning is fully online.
QQI has now published the final version of the Topic-Specific QA Guidelines for Providers of Blended Learning Programmes (PDF). QQI has also published a Feedback Report (PDF) to the responses received during a period of public consultation, which ended on 3 November 2017.
The Learning Rooms offer validated programmes leading to QQI awards. Check out our courses.
Contact us to develop a blended learning course for your organisation, or to deliver one of our QQI courses to your team.
About Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI)
QQI is the state agency responsible for promoting the quality, integrity and reputation of Ireland’s further and higher education system. They provide learners with qualifications that are valued nationally and internationally. QQI provide trusted information on the qualifications included on the National Framework of Qualifications.
