As a part of our preliminary research, accreditation (both k-12 and college) will provide insight into our current educational system. In the United States, accreditation is performed by private non profit membership associations, while in other countries education standards are conducted by government's ministry of education. The are 6 regional accreditors and52 national recognized accrediting bodies, differentiated by educational levels, religious, professional, and vocational.

Current criticisms are accrediting associations focus less on the quality of teaching and learning, and more on facilities, equipment and policies of the schools seeking accreditation (homeschooling). Also accreditors only support a 'traditional' education, for example religious institutions claiming accreditation interferes with their teaching mission and philosophy. The US department of education recognizes it is possible to provide a quality post-secondary education without accreditation while providing degrees. The educational risk the existence of 'diploma mills' granting degrees for a price without the related course work.