Experts to Revise and Enhance the Quality Assurance Guidelines for Online Learning in Further Education (FE)

Expression of Interest (EOI) for Experts to Revise and Enhance the Quality Assurance Guidelines for Online Learning in Further Education (FE)

1. Background

The Malta Further and Higher Education Authority seeks expressions of interest from suitably qualified experts to revise and enhance the guidelines for Quality Assurance in Online Learning for Further Education (FE) Providers. The aim is to create dedicated guidance for FE providers with a particular focus on blended and fully online learning in order to strengthen compliance quality assurance and practical implementation. This assignment forms part of the work of the National VET Team 2026.

2. Scope of Services

The selected Expert(s) shall:

General Requirement

The Expert(s) shall coordinate and collaborate with other appointed experts and the Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (MFHEA) throughout all phases of the assignment, including preparation, development, and delivery of outputs. The Expert(s) shall also attend meetings with MFHEA as deemed necessary.

Task 1 – Review, Gap Analysis and Reporting

The Expert(s) shall:

• Carry out a comprehensive review of existing online learning guidelines, application forms, and evaluation reports.

• Identify gaps, inconsistencies, and areas requiring enhancement.

• Design and administer a survey targeting FE institutions.

• Analyse collected data to identify key challenges, needs, and areas for improvement.

• Availability to deliver and facilitate one workshop with FE institutions.

• Collect and analyse stakeholder feedback and identify implementation challenges.

• Prepare and submit a report outlining the gaps identified and the changes required, for review and approval by MFHEA, by no later than 31 July 2026.

Task 2 – Drafting of Guidelines

The Expert(s) shall:

• Develop draft quality assurance guidelines for online learning in the FE sector.

• Ensure the draft guidelines are clear, practical, and aligned with sector requirements.

• Submit the draft guidelines no later than 30 September 2026, for review and approval by MFHEA.

Task 3 – Finalisation of Guidelines

The Expert(s) shall:

• Revise the guidelines taking into account feedback received from MFHEA.

• Ensure coherence, clarity, and consistency of the final document.

• Submit the finalised guidelines no later than 31 October 2026, for final approval by MFHEA.

Task 4 – Review of Application Forms and Evaluation Reports

The Expert(s) shall:

• Review and revise existing application forms and evaluation reports, including those related to programme accreditation and provider accreditation, to incorporate the updated and finalised online learning quality assurance guidelines.

• Propose procedural adjustments necessary to support the implementation of the updated guidelines.

• Submit proposed revisions for review and approval by MFHEA no later than 30 November 2026.

Task 5 – Dissemination and Launch Conference

The Expert(s) shall attend the launch conference and present the finalised guidelines following approval by MFHEA, with the conference taking place no later than 31 December 2026. 

3. Remuneration

The remuneration is set at €60 (including VAT)/ 50.85 (excluding VAT) per hour, with a maximum of 110 hours per expert.

Applicants residing in Malta must have a VAT number. In the case of non-resident experts, MFHEA will pay VAT directly to the Maltese tax authorities; therefore, payments will be made exclusive of VAT.

4. Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate:

• A qualification at EQF/MQF Level 7 or higher in a relevant field;

• At least five (5) years of experience in Further Education (FE) and/or Quality Assurance;

• Experience in developing, reviewing, or implementing QA frameworks or guidelines;

• Strong understanding of online learning and digital education;

• Experience with accreditation processes and regulatory frameworks is considered an asset.

5. Submission Requirements

Interested applicants are requested to submit:

• A cover email expressing interest.

• A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV);

• Copies of relevant qualifications.

6. Selection Process

Expressions of Interest will be assessed based on:

• Relevant qualification/s;

• Professional experience;

• Demonstrated expertise in quality assurance and online learning.

MFHEA reserves the right to invite shortlisted candidates for an interview.

7. Submission Deadline

Submissions must be received no later than 15.06.2026

Applications should be sent by clicking on the "Apply Now" button.

Late submissions will not be considered.