VAMK’s Quality criteria for digital pedagogy

VAMK’s Quality criteria for digital pedagogy

Digital pedagogical quality criteria support high-quality, pedagogically appropriate, and accessible digital instruction. They serve as a framework for the planning, implementation, and development of teaching. The criteria support the quality of education, the effectiveness of learning, and an equitable learning experience in digital learning environments.

1. Learning materials

1. Learning materials

  • The learning materials support the achievement of the learning outcomes.
  • The materials used in teaching are reliable and up to date.
  • When using the materials, usage rights and source citations have been considered, and copyright information has been included in the materials.
2. Structure of the learning platform

2. Structure of the learning platform

  • The structure of the learning platform supports progress through the course.
  • The following information are presented on the learning platform:
    • Schedule
    • Learning outcomes, workload and assessment
    • Teacher contact information and guidance policies
  • The learning process and its progress are visible to the learner.
3. Assignments

3. Assignments

  • The learning activities form a coherent whole that supports the achievement of the learning outcomes.
  • Learning assignments include a description of their purpose, instructions for the learner’s activities, and assessment criteria and methods.
  • Technology can be used in a variety of ways to complete the learning assignment.
  • Learning assignments are linked to real working life situations.
4. Accessibility

4. Accessibility

  • The learning process is learner-centered, and the content is cognitively accessible (the amount of information is reasonable, and the language and terminology are understandable).
  • The content is named consistently, and navigating the course is straightforward.
  • The content is visually accessible (taking into account, for example, fonts, color contrasts, layout, and text alternatives).
  • The funuctionality of the content has been verified (including links).
  • Guidance and technical support are available for online tools.
5. Guidance

5. Guidance

  • Learners receive guidance throughout the learning process.
  • The schedule and methods for guidance are outlined on the learning platform.
6. Assessment

6. Assessment

  • The assessment criteria are aligned with the learning outcomes.
  • Assessment takes place throughout the course, and a variety of assessment methods are used.
  • Learners have the opportunity for self-assessment and/or peer assessment during the learning process.
7. Development and feedback

 7. Development and feedback

  • Learners have the opportunity to give feedback.
  • Learning analytics and learner feedback are used to improve the quality of teaching.
8. Interaction

8. Interaction

  • Learners are given opportunities for mutual interaction, collaborative work, learning from others, and sharing experiences.
  • The goals and requirements for interaction are clearly communicated.
  • Learning situations promote interaction skills.
9. AI

9. AI

  • Learners are guided to use generative AI safely and ethically (including data protection, critical evaluation of sources, and copyright).
  • Assignment instructions specify how AI may be used to complete the assignment in question.
10. Information security

10. Information security

  • Services and applications recommended by VAMK are used to support learning.
  • Learners are not required to log in to any services or applications other than those recommended by VAMK.
  • The use of external services must be justified.