Research & Best Practices

View archived recordings from Research Webinars and select QM Research Conference presentations.

Dr. Amy Grincewicz presents a comprehensive framework for building high-quality online degree programs that move beyond fragmented course design. Her white paper demonstrates how four integrated pillars — Program Design, Teaching Support, Learner Support, and Learner Success — create systematic alignment from institutional mission to student outcomes. Drawing on Quality Matters research and real-world case studies, she provides practical strategies for administrators and faculty to build sustainable online learning ecosystems that foster community, maintain academic rigor, and serve diverse student populations in today's competitive digital education landscape.

See the results from the tenth survey conducted by QM, Eduventures and Educause as part of the Changing Landscape of Online Education (CHLOE) project. The tenth installment of a multiyear initiative, the 2025 report covers how institutions are navigating sustained demand for online learning while facing increased competition, AI integration challenges and issues with institutional preparedness.

Dr. Siobahn Day Grady and Dr. Racheal Brooks present comprehensive AI strategies for online education with evidence-based implementation approaches. Their white paper explores how artificial intelligence can transform online learning from simple automation to personalized, engaging experiences. They also provide practical guidance for educators and institutions on ethically integrating AI tools while maintaining human oversight and prioritizing student fairness and accessibility.

A comprehensive literature review of QM-related research from 2025-2023 by Dr. Kay Shattuck, QM's Founding Director for Research, Emerita.

Dr. Steven Crawford presents several types of media that can be used in courses along with evidence-based advice for employing them. He also provides practical advice for how to incorporate media in courses.

See the results from the ninth survey conducted by QM, Eduventures and Educause as part of the Changing Landscape of Online Education (CHLOE) project. The ninth installment of a multiyear initiative, the 2024 report covers learner demand for online options, institutional response to that demand, AI, Third Party Servicers, and Regular and Substantive Interaction (RSI), among other factors impacting the current state of higher education.

See the results from the eighth survey conducted by QM and Eduventures as part of the Changing Landscape of Online Education (CHLOE) project. The eighth installment of a multiyear initiative, the 2023 report covers the continued rise in student demand for online and hybrid learning modalities as well as the steps institutions are taking — and prioritizing — to meet this demand.

The seventh installment of the Changing Landscape of Online Education (CHLOE) report, produced by Quality MattersTM and Eduventures®, offers an overview of the current state of online learning in higher education as well as insights into its future development.

This paper offers a foundational exploration of inclusive online education, an examination of various course design models that normalize inclusive design practices in online learning, and practical recommendations for applying theoretical and research-based best practices for inclusive and representative course design.