Our Guiding Principles
GOER’s Core Principles
Our principles define not just what we value, but how we evaluate. Each one shapes our standards, informs our practices, and ensures we offer meaningful recognition and support to online education providers around the world.
GOER’s Core Principles
1. Pedagogy
What it means:
We assess the quality of teaching and learning with a specific focus on online delivery, including how digital tools are used to support engagement, inclusiveness, and SEND learners.
Why it matters:
Online education must go beyond content delivery — it requires intentional, accessible design that works for diverse learners in varied contexts. That’s why pedagogy is at the heart of GOER’s approach.
How it shapes our standards:
We look for clear planning, differentiated instruction, inclusive learning strategies, and measurable outcomes. Providers are supported to improve how they teach, not just what they teach.
GOER’s Core Principles
2. Governance
What it means:
Governance covers leadership structures, accountability, risk management, and the ability to make decisions in the best interests of learners.
Why it matters:
A well-governed institution is a safe, strategic, and sustainable one. Strong governance ensures that quality online education is not left to chance.
How it shapes our standards:
We review organisational charts, policies, and review cycles — ensuring that institutions are not only compliant but are building cultures of responsibility and improvement.
GOER’s Core Principles
3. Digital Delivery
What it means:
This principle assesses how technology is used to enable learning, communication, and assessment in online and hybrid environments.
Why it matters:
Digital tools are the foundation of online education. When they’re poorly used, learners suffer. When they’re used well, they can transform outcomes.
How it shapes our standards:
We evaluate platforms, user experience, data protection, and support structures. Providers are expected to demonstrate functionality, accessibility, and responsiveness to learner needs.
GOER’s Core Principles
4. Culture, DEI, Safeguarding & Student Voice
What it means:
This principle brings together inclusion, diversity, protection, and student agency — all of which are vital for safe and empowering learning.
Why it matters:
A positive culture is essential for student wellbeing and success. In the online space, safeguarding risks and feelings of isolation can be heightened — which is why these areas are assessed together.
How it shapes our standards:
We look for evidence of clear safeguarding policies, inclusive practices, and meaningful opportunities for students to give feedback and shape their learning experiences.
GOER’s Core Principles
5. Sustainability
What it means:
This principle focuses on how institutions contribute to environmental responsibility, long-term resource stewardship, and the promotion of sustainable values in digital education.
Why it matters:
Online and hybrid education has a unique opportunity to reduce environmental impact — but it also comes with its own digital footprint and ethical responsibilities. By embedding sustainability into learning and operations, providers can prepare learners for a more responsible future.
How it shapes our standards:
We assess whether institutions actively promote sustainability in their curriculum, operations, and technology use. This includes the use of low-impact platforms, sustainability-focused teaching content, digital well-being strategies, and alignment with global goals (e.g. SDGs). Providers demonstrating leadership in this area may also be eligible for a GOER Sustainability Badge.
GOER’s Core Principles
6. Recognition & Growth
What it means:
GOER recognises what’s working and supports institutions to grow in areas where they want to improve.
Why it matters:
Not every institution seeks full development support — and not every one is ready for full recognition. Our flexible approach allows providers to be seen where they are, and grow where they choose.
How it shapes our standards:
We offer tiered recognition levels and growth pathways. Our process includes feedback loops, development plans, and optional peer learning — because quality is a journey, not a fixed badge.
Start Your Accreditation Journey
Ready to enhance your online education platform with GOER's accreditation? Contact us to learn more about our principles and how they can elevate your institution.