Distance study

• Program Overview
• Online learning
• Face-to-face components
• When does Open Foundation by Distance start?
• Semester 1, 2013 courses
• Semester 2, 2013 courses

Open Foundation by Distance is an online program designed for students who require the flexibility of studying at home and in their own time. Perhaps you don't live near one of the university campuses, or maybe you are unable to attend on-campus classes at the times that they are offered. Either way, the Open Foundation by Distance online program is an option that can allow you to fit study in around your life.

There are some important differences between Distance and on-campus study. Some of the main differences are:

1. Distance study can require a higher level of self-motivation than on-campus study. Students who can develop the discipline and dedication to study independently are generally best suited to distance study.
2. Feedback from our Distance students has shown that time is one of the biggest challenges of Distance study. For example, students will generally need to spend more time studying independently, rather than relying on the on-the-spot explanations from lecturers or tutors for clarification of course materials. Whilst our teaching staff are very available by email or phone, you may not always receive an immediate response.
3. Distance study suits students whose preferred learning style is independent. We all learn differently. If you prefer mostly written/online materials and self-directed study, then Distance study might be for you. However, if you find it easier to understand and learn from in-person explanations, demonstrations and discussion, you might want to consider our part-time on-campus program. It is important that you consider which learning style may be more effective for you.

Program Overview

The table below summarises the key features of the Open Foundation by Distance program. You can also attend an Information Session (either on-campus or online).

Online learning

Distance study takes place primarily online through the online learning management system, Blackboard. You will be expected to access your online learning environment at least three times a week in order to: access online course notes, participate in regular online discussions, tasks and other activities, and submit assignments online.

During the first week of your Open Foundation by Distance studies, Week Zero, we will guide all students through how to access and use the online learning environment. So don't worry - there will be plenty of help available if you aren't confident with your computer skills!

In Open Foundation by Distance there are no weekly face-to-face lectures - instead you will need to access, read and summarise weekly course notes.

In place of face-to-face tutorials, you will need to participate in weekly online virtual tutorials. During these one hour online sessions, tutors will guide you through activities, discussions and exercises designed to enhance your understanding and ability to apply key concepts and skills.

The two videos below provide examples of Open Foundation by Distance courses. The first video is an example of a humanities (reading, writing and essay-based) course site - Australian History, Linguistics and Studies in Law. The second video is an example of a maths/science course site - Introductory Mathematics, Chemistry and Life Sciences, and Earth Science are maths/science courses.

An Open Foundation by Distance humanities course site

An Open Foundation by Distance maths/science course site

What if I don't have access to a computer or the Internet?

If you would like to complete Open Foundation by Distance but do not have regular access to a computer or a reliable internet connection, it is essential that you email the Distance Support Coordinator before you apply (or if your circumstances change after you apply). We still want to give you the opportunity to complete Open Foundation, and will endeavour to make special arrangements for you if you are in this situation so that you can still undertake the program.

Face-to-face components

Twice each semester there will be an on-campus Saturday workshop at the Callaghan campus. During these one day workshops you will meet and spend several hours face-to-face with each of your course lecturers. You will also benefit from 'study help' sessions with academic learning advisers and other support staff. Distance students are strongly encouraged to attend these workshops each semester.

Similar to on-campus Open Foundation, Open Foundation by Distance courses involve compulsory end-of-semester exams worth 50% of your overall mark in each course. These exams are arranged in major cities and towns in Australia within a 2 hour drive of where you live. Distance students must be a resident in Australia for the duration of their studies and can not sit exams in overseas locations.

When does Open Foundation by Distance start?

Open Foundation by Distance begins in Week Zero on Monday 25 February. Access to Blackboard, the online learning management system that you will use throughout OF by Distance, will be available to students from 9am that day (we will provide you with log-in instructions in your letter of offer).

During Week Zero you will need to log in to Blackboard for 1-2 hours each day from Monday 25 Feb to Friday 1 March to complete daily information and activities designed to introduce you to your courses, the support available for OF by Distance students, and to Blackboard

Semester 1, 2013 courses

The table below outlines the Open Foundation by Distance program structure for Semester 1. Choose 20 units from these courses. For course descriptions and timetables, click on the Course Code.

Check out the Recommended Courses for advice on which courses will provide the best preparation for specific undergraduate degree programs.

Semester 2, 2013 courses

The table below outlines the Open Foundation by Distance program structure for Semester 2. Choose 20 units from these courses. For course descriptions and timetables, click on the Course Code.

Check out the Recommended Courses for advice on which courses will provide the best preparation for specific undergraduate degree programs.

Next: Intensive Open Foundation or Selecting your courses

If you think full-time study might be more suitable for you, read through the Intensive Open Foundation information.

To find out more about what to consider when choosing your courses, move on to Selecting your courses.
 

Or listen to what our students say about Open Foundation.

Want to review? Back to Part-time Open Foundation.