HOW TO MAKE A SUCCESS OF DISTANCE LEARNING – GRADUATE ADVICE

The Independent Institute of Education’s Rosebank College has long embraced online and blended learning, launching their first blended learning campus in Polokwane in 2015. They now have four blended learning campuses in Bloemfontein, Polokwane, Port Elizabeth, and Pietermaritzburg. IIE Rosebank College also recently increased the IIE Online Learning offering to give students a choice of eight IIE qualifications. Students can now choose to study towards an accredited IIE degree, diploma, or higher certificate online!

For some, online learning can be a daunting thought; for others, it is readily embraced. As with most things, it seems hard until one starts. We spoke to a believer in lifelong learning, an individual with a postgraduate qualification, to get some tips on acing studies from a distance.

Firstly, we wanted to know why he opted to study online. For him, affordability was a major consideration, because with online learning, one can save on transport and accommodation costs. Some institutions even include books as part of the offering.

Before choosing an online provider, it is essential to do your homework, to ensure your money will be well spent. Online reviews are a good starting point to see what others are saying about the institution you are considering.

Studying from home requires specific tools which would give you the best chance of completing your studies. Some recommended tools include:

• A laptop for research and submitting your assignments

• An internet connection with enough data for voice, video, and research

• Stationery 

Have a vision board of what you would like to achieve once you attain your qualification. This will be a constant motivation.

A good online provider must have programme support tutors to offer student support. Use them if you get stuck. Student support should be an essential consideration when selecting your online provider.