Online Sport Education programs have become a vital trend and means for the working professionals to obtain advanced degrees and knowledge. This study attempted to assess the students' perception toward the educational service that was provided by a sport-specific online institution. The participants were 130 graduates who completed their degree program in 2004. They completed a 3-component, 49-item questionnaire during their Exit Interview process prior to their graduation. Other than the students' enrollment program and course delivery system, the questionnaire also covered information related to: (a) the evaluation on three performance categories--Course Materials (CM), Instructor's Performance (IT), and Administrative Process (AP); (b) perceived service quality in four areas—Admission, Academics, Library and Health & Recreation; and (c) professional development. Each of the components yielded a reliability coefficient (Cronbach's alpha value) greater than .863. The results indicated no significant difference was found in CM, IT, and AP based on different backgrounds of enrollment program, students' employment status, and delivery system. However, the evaluation of CM was significantly better than IT and AP (p < .05). In terms of the perceived services, the rating of Admission was significantly better than three other areas (p < .05). The leadership, technical, and research skills were ranked as the best enhanced professional skills. In conclusions, recommendations and suggestions based on the results were drawn to help improve the existing program quality and address more educational concerns for the future.
Key words: service quality, online education, distance learning, program evaluation