Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Top Ten Tips for Online Study
- Read instructions carefully
- Set your learning goals when you start your training
- Plan your study so you can complete your assessments on time
- Set aside a place at a computer that can be regularly used for study
- Monitor your motivation and keep your learning goals in focus
- Re-read study material where necessary
- Plan your study times, have a regular study schedule for the course
- Engage with other students and facilitators through online discussions
- Check for feedback on your assessments regularly
- Enjoy and reward yourself as you complete your goals
What kind of computer will I need?
Windows:
- Windows 2000, XP or Vista (32bit).
- Pentium 4 1.6 GHz (or equivalent system) with 512MB of RAM if using XP/2000 or 1024MB of RAM if using Vista.
- 120MB of free hard drive space.
- A sound card is required.
- Microsoft Office 2003 or newer and Adobe PDF reader.
Apple:
- Mac OS X 10 to 10.5
- G3 800 MHz (or better), G4, G5 or Intel processor with at least 512MB of RAM.
- 120MB of free hard drive space.
- Microsoft Office 2004 or newer and Adobe PDF reader.
Note: Apple's Preview application can open PDF documents but some editable PDF documents required as assessment tasks do not work properly with Preview. Please download and install Adobe PDF reader for compatibility.
What kind of Internet access do I need?
While basic functionality is supported for 56kbps dial-up in order to participate in real time interactive classrooms broadband Internet access is strongly encouraged.
How will I access coursework and submit my assessment?
Course participants will be provided with an online orientation that will guide them in accessing and submitting coursework and assessments. Students will have access to limited IT support if needed.
Can I talk to the course facilitators?
Participants may contact course facilitators via the online campus, via e-mail and by phone to discuss course content, assessment tasks or other issues for support during their study.
Can I talk to other participants?
The online campus has communications tools such as forums which enable participants to post items for discussion and a message device whereby participants can send messages discretely to one another or to course facilitators. WRT strongly recommends that participants post questions to one another and encourage discussion. Forums will be also be utilised in the course material and are an opportunity to network in the AOD sector across a range of organisations, statewide and local.
Do I have to attend other classes or purchase materials?
All lectures, reading materials, assessment tasks and other study aids are provided in the online classroom.
How much time will it take?
The recommended study time for all online courses is between 6 to 10 hours per week dependent on the course. Participants will have access to an online calendar to assist with keeping on schedule. Completion dates are determined on the assumption that participants spend the recommended study hours (see course description in study guide), viewing a lecture, reading or completing an assessment task. Participants may of course, adapt their study time to their own time table. Study breaks are built into the course structure, however it is worth reminding all participants that online, does not mean 'no time'.
What if I do not complete my course?
Participants who do not complete a course but who complete any units within the course will receive a Statement of Attainment recording the units completed.