Frequently Asked Questions About Studying Online

How is the course delivered?

Fundraising Skills courses offer ‘active online learning’ and are delivered via an online classroom. When you enrol and login to the online classroom , you’ll be part of a class of up to 20 other people, led by a fundraising expert and tutor. E-learning offers you the flexibility of studying at a time that suits you AND the benefit of being part of a class and being able to carry out activities and ‘chat’ with your tutor and other participants.

How do I contact my tutor?

Our team of fundraising experts and tutors lead and assess each course. You are not only invited, but actually encouraged to contact your 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.

Yes, but am I really part of a class?

Unlike some forms of distance learning, where you receive a text book and study alone, we guarantee you will ‘meet’ other like minded people within the online class. We use discussion forums and private tutorials to ensure you feel part of a class and are able to exchange ideas. Tutor support and feedback are highly valued by past students.

Do I have to be online at any specific time of day?

No. 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.

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. You will be asked to submit assignments and keep a learner diary. These are submitted via the online classroom and are included within the estimated time required per week. As courses are accredited, completion of each module 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.

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.

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?

The course website is 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 course website is easy to navigate and we provide a Guide and Demo for you to follow. Fundraising Skills staff are available to "talk you through" any problems you may encounter.

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.