Distance Education 2000 - Tuition methods

Tuition methods

Study materials
Academic assistance

Study materials

Study materials are generally mailed to students. The materials are carefully structured and specifically designed for independent study and may be a combination of print form, audio or video tape, computer disk, CD-ROM or experimental kit. On-line delivery of materials is becoming progressively more important.
The materials provide an overview of studying the subject, the assessment requirements, subject content and some reading and reference material. They may also be supplemented by a computer-mediated communication system to facilitate interaction with teaching staff and fellow students. Most subjects have prescribed textbook(s), and some may require software which the student is responsible for purchasing.
Some, or all, of the subject material is mailed out prior to the commencement of semester. Students may commence studying as soon as the materials are received.

Academic assistance

Academic assistance with the materials can be obtained from teaching staff by telephone, letter, facsimile or electronic mail. Strategies are also in place to enable students to contact other students studying the same subject. More information on these strategies will be provided following enrolment.