NOVA Online Up Close: Upholding Excellence in Distance Education
As NOVA Online continues its remarkable growth, our responsibility to maintain the highest standard of excellence in distance education has never been greater. This commitment extends beyond our institution—it influences practices across the Virginia Community College System (VCCS). Here’s how we are ensuring excellence as a college and as part of the broader VCCS community.
- Consistency and Quality Through a Template Model
To manage the complexity of administering thousands of course sections, NOVA Online uses a standardized course template model. This approach ensures that all courses meet quality benchmarks for instructional design, accessibility and student engagement. By aligning every course with best practices in online pedagogy and Transfer VA standards, we provide a consistent and equitable learning experience for all students, regardless of their chosen course or instructor.
- Faculty Excellence Through Professional Development
We recognize that high-quality education begins with our faculty. NOVA Online supports both asynchronous and synchronous online instructors through robust professional development programs grounded in C-RAC’s 21st Century Guidelines for online learning. Faculty members are certified through NOVA Online’s specialized training and are continually encouraged to enhance their skills in leveraging technology, fostering engagement and integrating inclusive teaching practices.
- Supporting Innovation Through Flex-Course Designs
In response to changing student needs, NOVA Online has launched a Proof of Concept for Flex-Course designs. This initiative allows experienced full-time faculty who have received training to have greater flexibility in NOVA Online Courses while maintaining academic rigor and ensuring NOVA remains in compliance with federal, state and accreditation regulations. Following successful feedback from our Pathway Deans, we hope to extend this opportunity to adjunct faculty, ensuring that all educators can contribute to this innovative approach.
- Data-Driven Decision-Making
NOVA Online leverages analytics to assess course performance, identify areas for improvement, and ensure student success. From monitoring course completion rates to evaluating student satisfaction, our data-driven approach allows us to adapt quickly and make informed decisions that prioritize student outcomes.
- Commitment to Open Educational Resources (OER)
To reduce costs and promote equitable access to education, NOVA Online has embraced Open Educational Resources (OER). By integrating these resources into our course templates, we lower barriers to learning while maintaining rigorous academic standards. Our work with OER not only supports NOVA students but also serves as a model for other colleges within the VCCS. - Fostering a Culture of Continuous Improvement
Excellence is not a destination but a journey. NOVA Online is committed to continuous improvement through initiatives like the upcoming Honorlock + AI training sessions, which will enhance academic integrity, and the “NOVA Online Up Close“ article series, which spotlights the dedicated professionals behind our programs.
Conclusion
At NOVA Online, our goal is clear: to deliver high-quality, accessible, and innovative distance education that meets the needs of our students, faculty and communities. By combining rigorous academic standards, faculty development and a collaborative spirit, we’re setting the bar for excellence in online education—not just for NOVA, but for the global online community,
As we look to the future, our focus remains steadfast: empowering students, supporting faculty and fostering innovation that transforms lives. Together, we’re not just growing, we’re thriving.
Submitted by:
Dr. Cynthia Pascal, AVP of NOVA Online, CPascal@nvcc.edu