Supporting distance learning student transition to higher education Yvette Winnard Senior Lecturer, FMS November 8th, 2017
The story so far …….. Hardcopy workbooks CD-ROM Web CT VLE Canvas
Key differences Student expectations Support and communication Time management, organisational skills, motivation Support and communication Pastoral, academic, IT Campus-based versus DL ‘Attendance’, personal tutor strategy, induction
Application Pre course Induction Course start Welcome email Preparation for Success Pre course Pre course notes Essay writing guide Preparation for Level 5 / Preparation for Level 6 Induction Delivered online in Canvas Activities to replicate campus-based induction ‘What happens next?’ Course start Networking activities Turnitin activity Personal tutor emails/tutorials ‘What happens next?’ emails
Named admissions officer Welcome email from course leader Application Named admissions officer Welcome email from course leader Initiates dialogue Preparation for Success
Preparation for Level 5 or Level 6 Pre course Pre course notes Essay writing guide Preparation for Level 5 or Level 6
Background and rationale Records of student engagement Induction Background and rationale Records of student engagement Online Freshers’ week
Networking activities eg: Padlet, ‘coffee lounge’ discussion area Course start Networking activities eg: Padlet, ‘coffee lounge’ discussion area Turnitin activity Personal tutor emails and tutorials ‘What happens next?’ emails
DL student transition to ARU Summary DL student transition to ARU Better informed Better prepared Expectations managed More confident