frequently asked questions...
question: what
is distance learning?
answer: distance
learning means different things to different people and organisations.
In its simplest form, distance learning is the concept of a
student and instructor, separated by time and distance, using
technology to complete the instruction.
The United States Distance Learning
Association defines distance learning as the acquisition of
knowledge and skills through mediated information and instruction,
encompassing all technologies and other forms of learning at
a distance. It is planned learning that normally occurs in a
different place from teaching and as a result requires special
techniques of course design, special instructional techniques,
special methods of communication by electronic and other technology,
as well as special organisational and administrative arrangements.
Source: Kearsley, G. and Moore, M. Distance
education: a systems view. Washington: Wadsworth Publishing
Company, 1996.
question: how
is a distance education course different?
answer: the
only difference between distance education courses and on-campus
classes is the way you learn. Traditional courses require you
to attend lectures or seminars at the campus. In a distance
education course, you learn to interact with your teacher and
fellow students via computer. You still must understand the
concepts, read a textbook, turn in assignments, and take exams
(if necessary); however, most students agree that distance education
courses are much more convenient because they give you more
schedule flexibility.
question:
how much can I save?
answer: upwards
of US$ 15,000 - fees for an accredited masters degree
(assuming that no subject credits are available) approximate
US$ 8,000 with those from the United States closer to US$ 25,000.
As degrees are quality assured and accredited
by the Government and are widely
accepted by employers, they represent an excellent investment.
question: what
is Accreditation?
answer: basically,
accreditation is a process that gives public recognition to
institutions that meet certain standards. It is a promise that
an institution will provide the quality of education it claims
to offer. Accreditation assures the student that the institution
operates on a sound financial basis, has an approved program
of study, qualified instructors, adequate facilities and equipment,
approved recruitment and admission policies, and advertises
its courses truthfully.
Source: The
Distance Education and Training Council
question: is
Accreditation Important?
answer: accreditation
may be important if you seek an award that will be widely accepted
by employers, professional associations, other colleges and
universities.
question:
what are the accrediting bodies?
answer: each country has a different system to assure the quality of the numerous
award-granting institutions.
In 1995, the Australian
Qualifications Framework (AQF) was established, by the Ministerial Council on Education,
Employment Training and Youth Affairs (MCEETYA) to provide for
the national articulation of awards offered in vocational
education and training, and higher education sectors. The AQF
maintains a public
register of endorsed post-compulsory
education providers and accreditation authorities. The higher
education institutions and accreditation authorities on the
AQF registers have the endorsement of Education Ministers
represented in MCEETYA and as such, the list protects the integrity
of higher education.
In the United
States, the Council
for Higher Education is the agency that oversees
legitimate accrediting agencies. CHEA is a non-profit organisation
of colleges and universities serving as the national advocate
for voluntary self-regulation through accreditation. They maintain
a directory
of recognised accrediting agencies
In short, there are six regional accrediting
agencies in the United States that have the governmental authority
to accredit American Colleges and Universities in their area.
These six agencies are: Middle States Association of Colleges
and Schools, New England Association of Schools and Colleges,
North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Northwest
Association of Schools and Colleges, Southern Association of
Colleges and Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
In the United
Kingdom, universities are autonomous self-governed institutions
operating under a government charter and having the right to
grant degrees.
All other governments of the
European Community recognise degrees
granted by any recognised university of a country member of
the European Economic Community.
question: what
is the relationship between awards from different countries?
answer: the
following table indicates the relationship between courses:
|
Aus.
|
USA
|
UK
|
|
Certificate
|
-
|
-
|
|
Diploma
|
-
|
-
|
|
Advanced Diploma
|
-
|
-
|
|
Bachelor
|
Bachelor
|
Bachelor
|
|
Bachelor (Honours)
|
-
|
Bachelor (Honours)
|
|
Graduate Certificate
|
Graduate Certificate
|
Graduate Certificate
|
|
Graduate Diploma
|
-
|
Graduate Diploma
|
|
Masters
|
Masters
|
Masters
|
|
Doctorate
|
Doctorate
|
Doctorate
|
Source: University
of Southern Queensland & Nexted
question: in
need of financial support?
answer: to
bring you the most relevant and timely information available
on the possible sources of financial aid, we would like
to refer you to the extensive 
directory listings. As you will see, there are many and
we would like to wish you the best of luck in securing
financial assistance to further your education.
