2. Communication & Support
One of the most challenging aspects of studying by distance learning is that students can feel isolated. Whilst studying at a distance undeniably requires considerable self motivation, it is essential to remember that you are not alone. Support is always on hand, whether from administrators, academic tutors or your fellow students. It’s important to talk – share your experience – we’re in this together.
Support from family and friends
Many of our student fit their studies around work, family and social commitments. If this is true for you, recognise that your family and friends can play an important role in helping support you through your whole programme. We have written a letter for family and friends which briefly explains what they can expect during your studies. You can download this letter here.
Communicating with tutors and fellow students on the OSC
Course discussion boards
We find that students get more out of their studies if they discuss key aspects of the courses with their classmates and tutors. For this reason, we have created course discussion boards on the OSC. Sometimes you will be prompted by the course materials to visit the board or your tutor may invite you to comment on a particular topic. Most students are simply waiting for someone else to start a discussion. Be brave and start a conversation. Our students are based all over the world so the variety of case studies and differing points of view that can be brought to a discussion can be fascinating.
Programme discussion boards
If you want to discuss the programme more generally, you can post comments on your programme discussion board. This can be a particularly useful area to share your experiences with other students. For example, you can ask people about courses you have not taken yet or about exam preparation. Again many students are just waiting for someone to make the first move. Post your own query and try to talk to several people. The reassurance gained from realising that other students are sharing the same study experience as you should not be underestimated.
Talk to your tutor
You are assigned an academic tutor for the duration of each course. If you want to ask your tutor something directly about the course content, you should use the ‘tutor query’ function. Your tutor should reply promptly. If you think the question would be of interest to your classmates, you could post this on the course discussion area. If you have a query about enrolment, assignment submission, or use of the OSC, please post an Admin query.
Online help from your Administrator
If you have a query about procedures for enrolment, assignment submission, or use of the OSC, please post an Admin query.
Contacting your Administrator
We have a dedicated student support team available to provide you with help and advice throughout your studies. If you have problems with your study workload or feel isolated, talk to us – we’re here to help.
Student and alumni social networking
Join the student network
This network can put you in touch with people on your course or who reside in your country, who have given permission to be contacted. Even if you aren’t at the same point in your studies, you are sharing some of the same study experiences and they will understand what you are going through. You may find that not everyone will respond when you email but keep your options open and keep trying.
Join the Facebook or Linked In groups
Both groups are completely run by students and alumni, not by the Centre, so you can speak your mind freely. You can meet your fellow students here without the Centre interfering – this is a social area.
