Redefining the Path to Student Success: Transforming Online Courses through Quality Matters Training and Guided Support

Quality Matters (QM) is an international benchmark for quality assurance in online learning. However, few studies to date have analyzed the impact of instructional designer-supported QM professional development using a validated framework of student success. This study examined the impact of QM training and guided support on course quality and student success dimensions (SSDs) from Lane et al.’s (2019) Student Success framework. Six instructors underwent QM training, created a course revision proposal, and revised their course with the support of an instructional designer. Each course was reviewed pre- and post-intervention, using the QM rubric. Results showed that this model led to overall improvements, with review scores increasing post-intervention and SSD integration increasing after revisions. Despite these benefits, the extent of integration varied, indicating a need for more focused support in certain SSDs. These findings emphasize the benefits of QM training, suggesting implications for future research and course design practices.