Composite sustainability index for online and distance education

Abstract

The surge in internet usage and the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic have emphasized the significance of online and distance education. However, there is a scarcity of scholarly research on the sustainability of initiatives implemented through these modalities, and the existing measurement methodologies for sustainability are not well suited to this particular context. This study aims to elucidate the relationship between sustainability and the performance of online and distance education and proposes a composite sustainability index to assess these programmes. The methodology for constructing this index follows the stages outlined by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and employs both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The qualitative techniques involve interviews conducted with a group of field experts in order to ascertain the prioritization of indicators. Data from these interviews is used to identify key indicators for further prioritization. The application of quantitative analysis involves the characterization of participants and the execution of calculations for finalizing, weighting, normalizing, and aggregating indicators, resulting in the creation of the composite sustainability index. This mixed-method approach is consistently applied throughout the index development process. The study yields a comprehensive sustainability index that assesses online and remote education programmes. It identifies 15 sustainability criteria corresponding to key sustainability dimensions and quality deployment pillars. The practical implications of these indices hold great significance, as they can provide valuable guidance to strategic decision-makers in enhancing current offers and shaping future policies and resource allocations for programmes delivered through online and distance education methods.