ASSESSING THE QUALITY OF DISTANCE LEARNING IN UZBEKISTAN BASED ON INTERNATIONAL DIGITAL EDUCATION STANDARDS AND IMPROVING METHODOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT MECHANISMS

Abstract

In recent years, distance learning has become an integral part of Uzbekistan’s education system, yet a unified methodological framework for assessing its quality against international norms has not been established. This article proposes an analytical model for assessing distance learning quality based on international digital education standards (ISO/IEC 40180, ISO 21001, IMS Global/1EdTech, SCORM and xAPI, Quality Matters, OpenupEd, and the European Standards and Guidelines — ESG). The model is expressed as an integral quality index (SI) combining six dimensions: content and curriculum quality, instructional design, technological infrastructure and interoperability, learner support and engagement, assessment and learning outcomes, and quality management. The study draws on a systematic review of the literature, a comparative analysis of international standards, and secondary data. The analysis shows that national distance learning platforms (EDUUZ, the digital resources of IT-Park University) are advancing rapidly in content and technology but lag behind international norms in instructional design, learning analytics, and continuous quality management. A continuous-improvement mechanism is proposed that links quality assessment with methodological management. The findings are of practical value to educational institutions, accreditation bodies, and regulators.