Exploring the Journey from QM Course Certification to becoming a Master Reviewer

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 10:25:25 -0500
biro, louise-murray, master-reviewer, qm, qmi, quality-matters-impact

Louise Murray, Clinical Associate Professor and Director of Undergraduate Programs at the Erickson School of Aging Studies, recently became UMBC’s first faculty member to become certified as a QM Master Reviewer.

This recent achievement builds on Murray’s long-standing experience with Quality Matters Standards as the guiding framework for designing online courses. In order to earn Master Reviewer certification, Murray first had to first complete the Applying the QM Rubric workshop, followed by QM’s Peer Reviewer Course, and then serve on two QM course review teams. Once eligible to become a Master Reviewer, Murray completed QM’s Higher Ed Master Reviewer Certification.

She was also among the faculty who completed the QM Impact (QMI) pilot program in 2021. Through that experience, Murray earned QM Certification for AGNG 355: The Experience of Dementia. It is one of UMBC's 19 QM-certified courses.

A Natural Progression

Driven by “a passion for the quality assurance process in education,” Murray said she embraced the transition to online teaching early in her career. She was introduced to the QM framework at a prior institution, calling it a “pivotal motivator” as early training offered a structure and pathway to enhance her skills in online course design. At UMBC, Murray continued learning and applying the QM Rubric, noting that becoming a Peer Reviewer and having opportunities to participate on QM Review teams allowed her to review how others use the Rubric and increased her confidence to pursue Master Reviewer certification.

Murray emphasized the importance of having institutional support by noting that Dean Dana Burr Bradley at the Erickson School of Aging Studies and her colleagues “were very supportive, providing the time and resources needed for the QM training” and course review opportunities.

Bradley said Murray's recent accomplishment is indicative of her dedication to quality course design: “We are so proud of Dr. Murray and are pleased that she is able to share her expertise with the QM community. The Erickson School has been at the forefront of distance/online work, and Louise has led our efforts to ensure we meet our students where they are and need to be.”

Transforming the Student Experience

Murray has submitted two courses for QM review, beginning with a course in 2017 at another institution. While that course did not achieve full certification, the process was invaluable. Achieving QM certification at UMBC solidified her commitment to quality online course design.

Murray pointed to how QM-designed courses foster better learning experiences for her students, even beyond the online environment. “Applying alignment and structure benefits students in both online and face-to-face courses,” she noted. For instructors, the upfront intentionality of QM allows more focus on mentorship and guidance during the course itself. For students, it ensures clarity and purpose, ultimately boosting engagement and providing tools for success.

Advice for Faculty Interested in QM

Murray said the journey with QM is an investment, but one that pays dividends in both teaching and learning. “It’s time-efficient for instructors, and students can navigate the course without frustration. Everything has a purpose, and that transparency helps engagement," she explained.

A Commitment to Continuous Improvement

Looking ahead, Murray envisions an expanded role with QM at UMBC, including taking additional courses through the review process and supporting colleagues in online course design. With many courses offered online at the Erickson School, Murray sees potential to serve as a resource for faculty striving to enhance their course quality and the student experience.

Reflecting on the resources available at UMBC, Murray noted the collaborative support from DoIT, the Faculty Development Center, and learning communities. “The investment in QM and teaching is about continuous improvement,” Murray said. “Our curriculum is dynamic, and we’re always looking to grow and refine it.”

(Image: Decorative, the QM logo)