Developing and validating a comprehensive scale for accreditation standards and quality assurance in e-learning institutions

Abstract In the evolving landscape of higher education, Online, Electronic, and Distance Education in Higher Education Institutions (OEDE-HEIs) demands rigorous quality assurance to uphold educational standards. Despite the critical importance of accreditation in ensuring the efficacy and credibility of OEDE programs, existing frameworks often lack the comprehensiveness required to address the unique challenges of e-learning environments. This study was undertaken to bridge this gap by developing and validating a robust evaluation tool tailored to the accreditation standards of OEDE-HEIs. The study integrated qualitative and quantitative analyses using a sequential exploratory mixed-methods design. In the qualitative phase, 9 experts participated in focus group discussions and 14 professionals took part in structured interviews to refine the model’s dimensions. In the quantitative phase, 171 participants, selected using proportional stratified sampling from five OEDE-HEIs, evaluated the model. The resulting tool comprises 87 items across 46 criteria within five core dimensions: organization, research, technology, teaching–learning, and support. Its validity was confirmed through a Content Validity Index (CVI) of 0.88, surpassing the standard threshold. Moreover, Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) established strong construct validity, with all factor loadings statistically significant. Reliability was demonstrated through Cronbach’s alpha and Composite Reliability (CR) values exceeding 0.70, and Average Variance Extracted (AVE) values supported convergent validity. This study offers a validated, multidimensional instrument that captures the complexity of OEDE-HEIs’ accreditation needs. It strengthens the quality assurance landscape and contributes to global efforts to adopt comprehensive, adaptable accreditation models responsive to technological and pedagogical shifts in online education.