Learners can use it to identify good quality provision.

Providers can use it to signal their achievement of, and commitment to quality.

Non-accredited providers cannot.

They may try to reassure learners by indicating links with other organisations.

But such links only demonstrate excellence if they are underpinned with rigorous scrutiny by a reputable, national body.

That is what the ODL QC Quality Mark guarantees.

The more widely known and understood a quality-recognition scheme is, the more learners understand the assurance offered by accreditation, and feel confident in choosing open or distance learning.