e-learning pedagogic standards: a comparative study across continents

Setting standards has long been emphasized to ensure quality in online education both internationally and locally. as a result, comparing e-learning standards from different regions may contribute to developing regional and international guidelines. this comparative study employed quantitative content analysis to review the existing standards manuals across six regions, namely africa, america, east asia, west asia, europe, and oceania, to develop a comprehensive set of e-learning standards and highlight the possible commonalities and disparities. firstly, the selected standards manuals were carefully reviewed, and the main categories were determined using the content analysis method, yielding 103 standard items with 204 references, grouped into six standard categories including 1) course design and structure, 2) student support and administration, 3) materials and presentation, 4) learning tasks and activities, 5) assessment and feedback, and 6) media and technology use. moreover, the results of the quantitative phase indicated a general consensus as to the importance of providing accessible course materials and regular learner-instructor interaction. in contrast, when it came to student support and administration and technology use and material presentation, significant differences were observed between and among the regions. the findings bear practical implications for policymakers, educators, and practitioners on both regional and global scales.