The aim of this research is to take a critical view of the learning assessment instruments used in distance learning higher education courses. The aim is to find out whether the assessment instruments used to monitor and measure the learning of students on distance learning higher education courses meet the objectives of the teaching-learning process. The circumstances surrounding assessment have aroused the interest of several researchers. Assessing is a complex act that has to be done with responsibility and ethical and moral commitment. The search for answers is investigating the following points: What is the importance of assessment in the teaching-learning context? What methods do teachers usually use to assess distance learning students? Does the way in which students are assessed in distance learning contemplate the purposes of the teaching-learning process? Assessment is part of the educational system. The interaction between the players in this process - teacher and student - makes education happen and the difference is the degree of commitment on the part of the teacher.