Enhancing LMS Course Quality and Accessibility with Quality Matters

Oberlin faculty now have access to Quality Matters (QM), a nationally recognized resource supporting excellence in LMS and blended course formats. Funded by the Academic Technology and Instructional Support team in the Center for Information Technology (CIT), this initiative underscores Oberlin’s commitment to innovative teaching and learning. 

What is Quality Matters? 

QM is a research-based framework with a global network of over 1,500 member institutions. It provides tools and a peer-review process to help faculty design courses that are accessible, engaging, and aligned with academic standards. In collaboration with CIT's Instructional Design services, by adopting QM principles, Oberlin ensures courses meet diverse student needs while maintaining academic rigor. 

What Quality Matters mean for Faculty and Students? 

QM provides: 

• Tools and resources for enhancing teaching practices like workshops, webinars, and QM Rubrics. 
• Peer collaboration and certification opportunities. 
• Courses designed for clarity, inclusivity, and accessibility. 

“As Oberlin embraces modern teaching practices, QM provides faculty an opportunity to refine their pedagogy through workshops and certificates, shared resources, and peer-reviewed course certifications. By focusing on alignment, universal design, and accessibility, QM aligns perfectly with Oberlin’s teaching and learning goals.” said Chris Drennen, Director of Academic Technology.

How Do Faculty Benefit? 

Oberlin’s QM membership includes: 

• Unlimited workshops on course design and accessibility. 
• Access to statewide collaboration through Slack channels. 
• Opportunities for professional development scholarships. 

As part of an Ohio consortium, Oberlin faculty can engage in peer reviews, workshops, and resource sharing with institutions across the state. This collaboration ensures unbiased feedback and promotes high-quality standards for course development utilizing the institution’s LMS, Blackboard. 

By integrating QM, Oberlin strengthens its position as a leader in educational quality, providing exceptional learning experiences for students and empowering faculty with transformative tools.