Applying six sigma for quality assessment in a eLearning courseware production process

Six Sigma method claims that focusing on reduction of variation will lead to reduction in defects in a business product. Its prestige and value is well known within the manufacturing industry. However, it is seldom applied to educational products such as courseware produced and used in higher education. It is beginning to be recognized as key process for quality assessment in eLearning and eTraining sectors in ASEAN. A consistent high quality in an eLearning or eTraining product can be achieved by applying Six Sigma in the courseware production process. This paper in attempt to discuss this new approach adopted from the industry that seeks to asses, evaluate and monitor variation in the usage of eLearning courseware components and recommend methods for their improvements. A pilot study based on Six Sigma and being conducted by the authors is briefly discussed.