Quality assurance in virtual higher education: Identification of key dimensions in a Colombian context perspective
Main Article Content
Keywords
Quality assurance, Virtual higher education, Educational evaluation, Quality dimensions, Evaluation models
Abstract
Virtual higher education has experienced exponential growth, which has posed the challenge of assuring its quality in a dynamic and constantly evolving environment. This study examines the essential dimensions for quality assurance models in virtual higher education programs, considering both those contemplated in current Colombian regulations and the emerging dimensions identified in the literature. Through a systematic review of the literature based on the PRISMA protocol, proposals oriented to quality assurance in virtual programs were analyzed, identifying a diversity of evaluative approaches. Common dimensions include institutional planning, technology and infrastructure, comprehensive support for students and teachers, and continuous evaluation. Key dimensions specific to virtual education also emerge, such as privacy and data security, student motivation, personalized learning, ICT-mediated interaction, technical and pedagogical competencies of teachers, and institutional management. The comparative analysis between the models and the Colombian context shows a gap in the integration of the substantive functions of higher education (teaching, research and extension). Although in Colombia these dimensions are fundamental pillars in the regulation of higher education, the literature reviewed has addressed in a limited way their adaptation to the virtual modality. This finding highlights the need to adjust the regulatory frameworks and evaluation strategies to the particularities of virtual education. Therefore, it can be concluded that quality assurance in virtual higher education requires a comprehensive, flexible and adaptive approach that incorporates both traditional and emerging dimensions identified. This will strengthen the evaluation and management of virtual programs, promote continuous improvement and contribute to the construction of quality assurance models that integrate global standards with national policies, guaranteeing their relevance in the current digital context.
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