FREE for all QM Members, these archived sessions of QM Success Stories can be viewed after logging into MyQM and navigating to Reference Library > QM Success Stories. Select the webinar title below for descriptions.
- Lessons Learned from a Revamped QM Subscriber-Managed Course Review Process
Presented on March 19, 2025 by Alise Hagan, Senior Instructional Designer, and Andrea Leonard, Senior Instructional Designer, from University of Louisiana Lafayette
UL Lafayette has conducted nearly 50 QM Subscriber-Managed course reviews: seven between 2019-2022 and 42 between 2022-2024. The increase in successful reviews was the result of a novel course review cohort model. This presentation will discuss (1) incorporating a cohort model in support of the established QM Subscriber-Managed review; (2) quantitative results reflecting the actual and perceived benefits to courses and faculty; and (3) lessons learned from implementing a cohort-review model.
- Designing for Everyone: Accessibility, Usability and the New ADA Ruling
Presented on February 19, 2025 by Sonya Woods, Lead Accessibility Consultant, and Matt Farley, Accessibility Consultant, from Penn State World Campus at Pennsylvania State University
Accessibility is not just about compliance; it’s about creating better experiences for everyone. In this session, we’ll outline the recent ADA updates that extend regulations to websites and mobile apps, and what they mean for organizations. We’ll also explore actionable strategies for improving accessibility, such as optimizing page structure, enhancing readability, and designing inclusive videos and images. Whether you’re new to accessibility or looking to refine your approach, this session will provide valuable insights to help you create more inclusive content.
- Incorporating Regular and Substantive Interaction (RSI) into Course Design and Delivery
Presented on January 21, 2025 by Jennifer Davis, Instructional Designer at University of Cincinnati Online
Integrating RSI into online course design and delivery brings meaningful engagement between instructors and students which aids in student success and is vital to meeting compliance requirements. Participants will gain a clear definition of RSI, discover actionable strategies to integrate RSI principles seamlessly into course components and create a design plan for integrating RSI into existing online courses or when designing new courses.
- Sorting Out Usability and Accessibility in General Standard 8
Presented on December 18 by Lisa Kidder, Quality + Program Manager at the Instructional Technology Resource Center, Idaho State University
Do you get confused with General Standard 8? You are not alone! Come learn how to distinguish between the usability and the accessibility aspects. You will be able to apply each Specific Review Standard better and write clear, constructive suggestions clearly supported by the Rubric.
- Showcase QM-Certified Online Courses at Your Institution
Presented on November 19 by Zhetao Guo and Randi Kirkland from the University of Alabama at Birmingham
The Office of Learning Technologies team at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) implemented a recognition system for high-quality online courses. The team selected a collection of Quality Matters certified and other well-designed online courses for public display. In this session, the presenters will discuss the selection process, the development of the website, and marketing channels. The presenters will also demonstrate the collection of the courses and discuss future improvements for the initiative and how they ensure that a variety of subjects are represented while maintaining a manageable course list.
- From Slogan to Reality: Breaking Down the Barrier of Quality Assurance at Scale
Presented on August 15, 2024 by Rene Molenaur, Senior Instructional Designer, and Steve Kaufman, Senior Instructional Designer and Strategic Initiatives Coordinator, from the University of Akron
Quality Matters' slogan is "Helping you deliver on your online promise," but it can be difficult for institutions to define that promise and implement quality assurance at scale. The University of Akron's "UAkron Online Promise" is a tiered development process that helps faculty meet QM standards and partners them with instructional designers. This process streamlines QA, boosts faculty recognition, and increases learner confidence. In this session, participants we’ll discuss the benefits and challenges of implementing a tiered QA process, identify institutional barriers, and learn how the "Online Promise" framework increases faculty buy-in as a student success initiative.
- Influencing LMS Adoption Through QM-Based Training and Digital Badges
Presented on July 17, 2024 by Dr. Charlotte Russell Cox and Dr. Larrisha McGill-Youngblood from North Carolina Central University
In this session, presenters discussed the outcome of a systematic review and meta-analysis on the relationship between synchronous instructor presence and student learning and satisfaction in online courses. Participants engaged in a guided discussion about the limitations of the current research on this topic and brainstorm positive steps toward improving the research.
- Systematic Review: The Effect of Synchronous Instructor Presence on Student Learning & Satisfaction
Presented on June 20, 2024 by Dr. Enoch Park, University of North Carolina at Charlotte; Dr. Mary Ellen Dello Stritto, Oregon State University; and Dr. Lidija Krebs-Lazendic, University of New South Wales, Australia
In this session, presenters discuss the outcome of a systematic review and meta-analysis on the relationship between synchronous instructor presence and student learning and satisfaction in online courses. Participants engage in a guided discussion about the limitations of the current research on this topic and brainstorm positive steps toward improving the research.
- Student-Driven Quality Matters Practices: Centering Student Advisors in Design Innovation
Presented on May 23, 2024 by Michelle Vonie and Samantha Maxwell from the University of Arizona
All too often, online course quality is determined by a course’s compliance with industry standards rather than consultation with actual students. In this presentation, we share a case study of student-driven quality assurance practices recently developed in a University Center for Assessment, Teaching, and Technology. Attendees will leave the session inspired to create their own student-driven quality assurance practices at their respective institutions.
- Blueprint Courses and Collaboration: An Innovative HBCU Case in Course Design and Quality Assurance
Presented on April 16, 2024 by Dr. Mary A. Hooper, Associate Provost for Online Learning and Continuing Education from Clark Atlanta University
Clark Atlanta University piloted a Blueprint Course initiative to ensure the instructional quality of online general education courses. Blueprint Courses are turn-key and collaboratively developed by departmental faculty and instructional designers using existing student learning outcomes to inform course design. We will highlight the course development process, including quality assurance through peer review, and identify takeaways, including the impact for both teaching and student learning.
- Upskilling with QM: A Coach/Learner Experience
Presented on March 19, 2024 by Monica Pires and Ann Allen from Central State University
In any teaching modality, it is crucial that students are provided with a well-mapped path to achieve course outcomes. This session's participants will not only learn about improving an online course; but also, the perspective of an instructional course designer and a faculty member working together as a coach/learner in the endeavor to coach, understand and then apply the QM Standards to enhance student learning. Participants will also learn about the impact of this process on user experience.
- Pathways and Partners for Progress
Presented on February 20, 2024 by Amy C. Crowley-Gonsoulin, Maria C. Villar and Uyen Lee from Miami Dade College
As you look to help successfully implement Quality Matters at your institution, consider different partnerships and pathways that can help you scale and move towards sustainable quality practices in online and blended environments. In this webinar, presenters from Miami Dade College share their experiences with funding sources, partnerships and implementing QM to support student retention.
- Templates, Quality Assurance, and Shared Governance Through Collaborative Leadership
Presented on January 17, 2024 by Angel Mootispaw, Southern State Community College
A unionized community college created a committee to provide shared governance over distance education. Faculty members, administrators, and other committee members worked together to develop and implement a course template with twenty QM Specific Review Standards. Join us to learn how the course template also increased course completion rates.
- Maximizing Learner Engagement: Strategies for Encouraging Learner Participation in Online Lectures
Presented on December 19, 2023 by Steve Kaufman and Evi Gorogianni from The University of Akron
For years, faculty have relied on simple voice over PowerPoint to deliver lecture content. However, this method has repeatedly fallen short on engagement and interaction, especially for today's online learner. How do we get learners to actually watch our lectures? Additionally, what strategies can we use to encourage learners to keep going and focus on key pieces of information? At the University of Akron, we'll share the innovative ways faculty have elevated their lectures with interactivity, thoughtful questions, and powerful visuals to get learners to actually watch and engage.
- Don’t Panic! Leading and Learning in an Age of AI
Presented on November 15, 2023 by Dr. Jason Neiffer, Executive Director of the Montana Digital Academy
Everyday, we are witnessing the rise of mainstream artificial intelligence. With the emergence of generative AI tools, we have a new opportunity to discuss the placement of future tools in our schools to help build better, future-focused students and ultimately adults. In this webinar, you're invited to embrace AI tools as an opportunity to adopt superpowers for you and your students to navigate what’s next in our soon-to-be-AI-driven world. Join us to calm your fears, increase your understanding and discover new opportunities for your school.
- Ctrl+Engage: Practical and Fun Strategies to Spark Student Engagement in Synchronous Online Classes
Presented on October 18, 2023 by Dr. Wendy Tietz, professor at Kent State University
Do you struggle with student engagement in your online synchronous classes? Do you wish your online class could use more active learning techniques, but you do not know where to start? During this session, simple, practical strategies will be shared that can be used to foster student engagement in synchronous online classes (and asynchronous too). The presenter has taught online large classes synchronously and asynchronously for more than a decade, and will share the class-tested strategies she uses to energize online classes. Many of these strategies can be applied or adapted to any size of class, including large classes. Advantages and limitations of each strategy/tool will be shared. Practical tips learned from implementing these strategies will also be shared. The strategies shared are low or no-cost solutions and do not require a high level of technology expertise.
- Less Content, More Application: Rising to Meet the Challenge of Chat GPT
Presented on September 20, 2023 by Inara Scott, Associate Dean for Teaching and Learning Excellence and Gomo Family Professor at Oregon State University
Given what we know about what ChatGPT and other AI tools can — and cannot— do, as educators we must confront two very different issues: First, what should we be teaching our students to prepare them for a world in which they are likely to be using AI tools? Second, how do we assess what students have learned when ChatGPT provides an exceptionally helpful resource for cheating? In this session you will: apply practical strategies for designing a course that is more resistant to cheating and enhances student learning, and modify syllabi and assignments to anticipate the use and integration of AI in the classroom and the workplace.
- Learner Support and Engagement Beyond Traditional Use of LMS
Presented on August 15 2023 by Randi Kirkland, Instructional Design Manager and Instructor; Samira Laouzai, Deputy Director/Manager of eLearning Services and Quality Assurance, Instructor; and Zhetao Guo, Senior Instructional Design Specialist from The University of Alabama at Birmingham
Learn how to use an LMS to virtually engage on campus and online students. This can be achieved by creating inclusive and supportive learning environments that allow students to access academic and support services, complete University requirements, and conduct virtual presentations from anywhere.
- The Road Trip to Building Collaborative and Engaging ID-Faculty Relationships
Presented on July 20, 2023 by Alicia Butterfield, Instructional Designer at University of Texas at Arlington
Working in an ID-Faculty partnership is a lot like going on a road trip — from packing the right gear, to navigating construction zones, and enjoying some sightseeing along the way. Come network on strategies for engaging faculty in the design process to make your road trip a success!
- Quality in Online Programs: Innovative Approaches to Quality Assurance
Presented on June 21, 2023 by Amy Grincewicz, Director of Instructional Design for the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship at Kent State University; Nicole V. Schilling, Ph.D., Associate Professor in the College of Education at The University of Findlay and Jen Plahovinsak, Director MS Translational Pharmacology Program, Assistant Professor - Clinical Outcomes and Translational Sciences at The Ohio State University
Are you looking for evidence-based hands-on approaches to quality assurance in online higher education programs? Then this presentation is for you as three institutions will discuss their innovative approaches to seeking quality assurance in online programs.
- Synchronous Online Learning: What is Old is New Again
Presented on May 11, 2023 by Steven Crawford, District Director, Maricopa Center for Learning and Innovation at Maricopa Community College
In this conversation, we will review this history of synchronous online learning and discuss the transition our faculty and students have made to this modality. We will also discuss the barriers and solutions to these barriers that both students and faculty are facing, as well as their successes.
- Redesign to Align: Using QM Standards to Match Program Goals with Learner Needs
Presented on April 19, 2023 by Dr. Kim Christopherson, Professor of Education, and Dr. Kristine Mickelson, Associate Professor of Education, from Morningside University
When programmatic outcomes, student needs, and course design are out of whack, students become disengaged and anxious. We engaged in a curriculum revision to align our programmatic outcomes, student needs, and course design to produce more successful outcomes and experiences for students.
- Building Relationships Before Your Course Starts with a Personalized Website
Presented on March 21, 2023 by Janel Heitz, Senior Quality Specialist, and Dr. Katherine Ostdiek, Instructional Designer, from Bellevue University
Welcome students before the term starts with an instructor website. Example websites, resources, and feedback from instructors are shared. Get everything you need to create your own instructor website and enhance your student-instructor relationships by watching this webinar recording.
- Administrators Assemble! Cultivating e-Learning Quality Champions Among Academic Leadership
Presented on February 22, 2023 by Dr. Racheal Brooks, Director, Office of e-Learning, and Dr. Siobahn Day Grady, Program Director of Information Science Program, from North Carolina Central University
Watch this highly engaging session during which teams of e-learning champions collaborate to strategize pathways for QM implementation within diverse institutional contexts! Examine how to build lasting buy-in among academic leadership for campus-wide e-learning quality assurance.
- Scaling Up Quality: A Five-Year-Plan for QM Professional Development at a Large Public University
Presented on January 25, 2023 by Arlene Mendoza-Moran, Lead Instructional Technologist, Dr. Shweta Trivedi, Department of Animal Science, and Bethanne Winzeler, Assistant Director of Course Quality, from North Carolina State University
Looking for ideas to expand quality assurance at your institution? In this session, we will reflect on a multi-faceted five-year plan to elevate online course quality at a large public university. You’ll come away with ideas for designing professional development to scale up your own QM plan.
- Using UX Design Principles to Meet Quality Standards in Elementary Courses
Presented on December 14, 2022 by Deirdre Edward and Alexandra Lewis, VirtualSC
When faced with the task of designing asynchronous courses for elementary school students, VirtualSC designers worked to merge best practices of instructional design with those used in designing apps for children. In this presentation, the team will demonstrate the resulting course elements and how they are being used in the development of elementary math and social studies courses.
- Engaged but Not Invested: Practical Approaches Toward Educational Equity for All Students
Presented on November 15, 2022 by Nancy Chapko, Wisconsin Technical Colleges
How do we encourage student investment in learning to position them toward educational equity? Join this conversation to examine learner investment and educational equity. Leave with a plan to implement real-world approaches recommended by peers.
- Are You Up for the Design Challenges?
Presented on October 19, 2022 by Rudy Lopez, Instructional Designer Team Lead, and Amy Gates, Instructional Designer, at Alamo Colleges Online
How do you incentivize 200 full-time and adjunct faculty to elevate their online course designs to the next level? A very large community college district developed the Design Challenges to support faculty in such an endeavor.
- Tiny Trickles to Wondrous Waterfalls: One Strategy Impacts Several Disciplines
Presented on September 21, 2022 by Amy Heston, Professor of Inorganic Chemistry at Walsh University
“My journey to the waterfalls” explains how a new approach to learning became a trickling stream of positive impact in one chemistry course, produced river rapids of momentum for QM certification, and then led to a waterfall of student success across several disciplines. Never underestimate the power of a small change toward student success because you, too, could experience a waterfall!
- Leveraging Quality Matters TOC Training to Advance Institutional Change
Presented on August 25, 2022 by Justin Sentz, Deputy CITO & Executive Director of Academic Technology of Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania
Shippensburg University, like many other institutions, made a quick shift to emergency remote learning in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This left many faculty members unprepared and led to questions about quality instruction. In the summer of 2020, the President gave a charge of getting as many faculty as possible independently certified for teaching online. As an existing institutional member of Quality Matters, the University recognized the Teaching Online Certificate as the “gold standard” for online instruction. This presentation will detail how this training was offered to faculty on campus and how the faculty who completed the training became champions for institutional change.
- Review Readiness: Establishing Internal Review Processes to Prepare for QM Certification Reviews
Presented on July 20, 2022 by Jami Nininger, Associate Dean, Academic Affairs, Mount Carmel College of Nursing; and Miriam Abbott, Academic Department Lead, Faculty, Mount Carmel College of Nursing
“Establishing Internal Review Processes to Prepare for QM Certification Reviews” (aka QM Official Reviews) shares one institution's strategy for structuring an internal review process that drives faculty buy-in and course review process.
- Fake SLO’s and Upside Down Alignment
Presented on June 22, 2022 by Sacha Johnson, Senior Instructional Designer at Idaho State University, and Lisa Kidder, Quality+ Program Manager at Idaho State University
Are your learning objectives not quite feeling right? Perhaps you have some fake objectives? Or maybe the alignment is upside down? Let us help you identify topics, assessments, activities, and instructional materials masquerading as objectives and evaluate upside-down alignment.
- Post Pandemic: What We Learned to Make Education Better
Presented on May 17, 2022 by Steve Kaufman, Sr. Instructional Designer & Strategic Initiatives Coordinator at The University of Akron and Chair of the Quality Matters Instructional Designer Association and Quality Matters Ohio
Institutions are in a rush to "go back to normal", but should we? We will discuss some of the unique challenges that remote teaching revealed, but also how these challenges were addressed and what online learning can look like moving forward.
- Delivering High Quality Staff and Faculty Development in 10-Minute Microlessons
Presented on April 20, 2022 by Matt Rietschel, Susan Bindon and Joanne Pinna from University of Maryland, Baltimore
"Tech in 10" and a "Teach in 10" microlessons were implemented for faculty and staff to get 10 minute chunks on topics related how to learn, plan and solve issues that arise with telework, technology, teaching and especially teaching online. Join these QM members to find out how your institution might do the same.
- Before, During and After the Pandemic: Leveraging QM in Support of MSCHE Accreditation
Presented on March 24, 2022 by Dr. Bernice Purcell, Holy Family University; Richard Smith, Harford Community College; and Dr Rui Li, Westchester University of Pennsylvania
The presenters highlight examples of how their institutions have leveraged policies, practices, and plans developed in a way that aligns Quality Matters with their re-accreditation self-study (Middle States).
- How a Mix of QM, Analytics, and Data Inform Continuous Improvement
Presented on February 15, 2022 by Penny Ralston-Burg, Jessica Resig and Lisa Byrnes from Penn State World Campus
This webinar explores how a mix of Canvas student performance data, learning analytics, detailed course mapping, and QM internal review inform targeted course revision in a highly ranked online MBA program committed to continuous improvement.
- Prioritizing SEL in an Online Environment
Presented on January 19, 2022 by Kirsten Wilson, M.Ed, Virtual Arkansas
Social Emotional Learning isn't just something that is designed and developed in a course. It takes active training and a set of skills with an online educator to know what "just-in-time" supports are needed for students. Learn how Virtual Arkansas has taken the course-embedded elements of SEL and brought them full circle through leveraging all forms of communication in their courses along with the learner-centric approach of their teachers and systematic steps to interact, invest and maximize every opportunity to support and build capacity in students. This is where Virtual Arkansas takes the QM K-12 Rubric standards of 5.2, 5.3, and 5.4 along with the NSQ for Online Teaching and Learning and implements them with authenticity and fidelity.
If you'd like to present a future QM Success Story, please email QM's Registrar for Higher Education.
