Three-dimensional matrix for an approximation to quality assurance in distance education

Abstract

The assurance of quality in Distance Education is a key factor for success in this educational strategy. This article covers quality assurance according to a tri-dimensional matrix view. The proposed matrix combines the managerial activities of planning, organizing, directing and controlling with the quality domains proposed by Frydenberg (2002) for quality assurance. A third dimension, time, is introduced in the proposed model or guide for the evaluation of quality. Short, middle and long term, are established as the operational, tactical and strategic activities of an educational institution. The educational evaluation domain is highlighted as a fundamental activity, outside the proposed matrix, responsible of the feedback process and the results of the quality level obtained.