Publication Date

12-2016

Date of Final Oral Examination (Defense)

10-11-2016

Type of Culminating Activity

Dissertation

Degree Title

Doctor of Education in Educational Technology

Department

Educational Technology

Major Advisor

Kerry Lynn Rice, Ph.D.

Advisor

Patrick R. Lowenthal, Ph.D.

Advisor

Ross Perkins, Ph.D.

Abstract

AACSB accreditation is known for challenging business programs to pursue excellence and continuous improvement. Online MBA programs accredited by the AACSB have undergone significant expansion in recent years. It is important that quality assurance measures keep pace with this growth and adequately address the unique parameters involved in online delivery. The purpose of this Delphi study was to identify and prioritize aspects of quality assurance specific to online delivery in AACSB-accredited MBA programs.

The Delphi methodology was used to facilitate a group conversation between expert administrators, faculty, and instructional designers around the topic of quality assurance for online MBA programs over the next 3-5 years. In Round One, twenty-two members of the expert panel generated 72 essay responses that were coded and consolidated into 46 item statements categorized into seven themes. The individual statements were rated and themes were ranked by the panelists in subsequent rounds. Expert panelists identified the following areas important to quality assurance in AACSB-accredited online MBA programs over the next 3-5 years, presented in order of importance: (a) academic integrity and rigor, (b) course content, design and delivery, (c) faculty qualifications, development and support, (d) quality frameworks (e) accreditation, (f) learner support and, (g) evaluation. Results of this study will help to direct the efforts of those involved in delivery of a quality online MBA program.

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