Evaluating e-courses based on value flow models estimation

Information Systems (IS) evaluation is of critical importance for assessing the value they generate and its main determinants, and identifying weaknesses and improvements priorities. This paper proposes a new approach for the multidimensional evaluation of IS in the domain of e-learning, which enables the assessment of the value generated at various levels and dimensions, and also the identification of the whole mechanism of value creation and flow. The proposed approach has been applied for evaluating an e-learning course in the domain of cultural heritage developed as part of the ERMIONE Project. By using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM), and in particular the Partial Least Squares (PLS) approach, the value flow model of this e-course has been estimated and used for drawing conclusions concerning the value generated at various levels and improvements priorities.