Abstract

The preparation of professors on the educational use of information and communication technologies is of vital importance in postgraduate education. However, not all the professors have the necessary knowledge for teaching-learning process in virtual environments. The article analyzes the criteria that guarantee the quality of virtual courses in academic postgraduate studies. Based on the review of relevant literature, a procedure that establishes the elements to be considered for the design of virtual courses in postgraduate programs has been developed. The quality criteria are: objectives; instructional design; interactivity; effective communication; evaluation and feedback of results; accessibility; and evaluation of the course by the students. The procedure provides the guidance required by teachers for the development of virtual courses.

Keywords:
educational quality; teacher qualifications; postgraduate courses; distance education