ODL QC Standards

Introduction

ODL QC Standards guarantee quality in all open or distance learning, including home study, correspondence courses, e-learning, blended and work-based learning.

The Standards were first adopted in September 1998, and revised in 2000.

New Standards, set out here, are the result of a more extensive revision in 2005.    These were released in December 2005. and came into force on 1st April 2006.

Click on Definitions (see Links) if you are unsure how some of the terms are used.

Sections

The Standards are subdivided into six sections

1. Outcomes
2. Resources
3. Support
4. Selling
5. Providers
6. Collaborative Provision

A printed version of the Current Standards is also available.

Application

These standards apply to any ODL provision, though their implementation may differ from case to case.

Paragraphs in italics within a Standard show how it should be interpreted;   they are illustrative rather than mandatory.

Further guidance is given in the Good Practice Guides

When applying for accreditation, a provider should address all the standards, and give evidence that each has been met.

Where a standard is not applicable, an expanatory statement to that effect should be included in the submission.

If that standard has not been met, a clear statement of the reasons should be given, and of how the provider intends to remedy this situation.

Some standards represent best practice;   failure to meet them may not necessarily debar a provider from accreditation but will highlight an area needing improvement for continuing accreditation.