Development of Instruments for Evaluation of Quality of Distance Studies

The popularity of declaring quality assurance seems to be growing significantly in the last decade, including the field of distance studies and elearning. Unfortunately, the implementation of quality assurance mechanisms on the operational level faces considerable problems. In this article we describe different conceptions of quality of distance studies, the stage of research and implementation of quality assurance in Lithuania, and especially at Siauliai University. We present analysis of two case studies where different methods of the evaluation of distance studies were used: 1) Expert evaluation can prove that distance studies meet posed requirements, and therefore is acceptable in the organization; 2) Students’ questionnaires allow to investigate distance studies as a process. Also we present problems that arise while seeking to enhance developed instruments.