Quality assurance for excellence in e-learning: The role of social networking

In recent years there has been significant interest in e-learning, so it is timely to consider quality assurance methods which are specific to this domain. The E-xcellence methodology was developed to support assessment of the quality of e-learning. The methodology is based on a set of benchmarks and performance indicators, together with a manual for practitioners and a web-based self-assessment tool. E-learning has evolved since the E-xcellence methodology was first developed, and there is increasing awareness of social networking for e-learning. One of the aims of the E-xcellence Next project was therefore to update the resources, making this aspect more explicit. This paper discusses the rationale, process and outcomes of this updating.