|
|
Frequently Asked Questions About Studying Online
What equipment do I need to participate?
All you need is access to a computer, an Internet connection,
Microsoft Word and Adobe Acrobat. A printer is useful but not vital,
as you will be supplied with a CD-ROM of course materials.
What level of technological expertise is required?
All courses are geared toward the needs of Internet beginners. You
just need to know how to edit and save a Word document and how to use
a browser to visit web sites. The tone and approach of the course is
intentionally low-tech and low-key. Fundraising Skills staff are
available to "talk you through" any problems you may encounter.
Do I ever have to go anywhere, or be online at any specific
time of day?
No to both. The courses are conducted entirely through the
course website. All course materials, including articles, examples of
grant proposals, worksheets, etc. are posted in a private section,
along with discussion boards for raising questions with the tutor and
other participants.
Most students will complete one module per week for the six weeks
of the course, though you may decide to progress at a greater speed.
As there are no "real time" commitments during the week you can pursue
the coursework whenever it is convenient for you: evening, lunch-time,
weekends. Every Monday for the duration of the course new
announcements will be added to the website and you will receive any
further instructions for the week?s lessons. All course materials can
be printed out for your future reference.
Do I have to hand in anything? Will I receive a certificate?
Yes to both, (unless you opt out of the accreditation route and just
wish to have access to the training materials without tutor support.)
You will be asked to submit a total of three online worksheets and
keep a learner diary. These are not onerous and are included within
the estimated time required per week. As courses are accredited,
completion of each of the six modules is necessary for those
interested in receiving a certificate. All participants will receive a
certificate from the Open College Network upon completion of the
course.
What if I have a question, or would like a particular topic
explored in more detail?
You are not only invited, but actually encouraged to contact
the tutor with questions and issues you would like addressed.
In addition to online contact with your tutor, there will be lots
of opportunities for students to communicate with each other
throughout the course. Often the most valuable lessons come from
discussion with other people in the same position as yourself.
How much time will I need to spend each week?
Responses from past students indicate that, depending upon your level
of involvement (and your current time pressures), you can expect to
put in anywhere from 3 to 4 hours per week, with most students
spending 3 hours. Remember that, because of the format of the courses,
you can choose how much time you want to allot to each subject -- and
when.
How up to date are the course materials?
New funds are announced almost daily, funding criteria changed and
information on the web deleted or moved, so every course is updated
and revised before each course begins.
|
