Getting Started

Submitted by matt.willis@up… on Wed, 10/13/2021 - 07:51
We need to bring learning to people instead of people to learning
Elliot Masie

Welcome and Congratulations on taking your next steps to enhance yourself and your career. Over the course of this Topic, we are going to introduce you to the world of Online Learning. You may be new to the world of online learning, but don’t worry we are here to guide you through your journey to help make sure you have the best start in your educational journey. Whether you are new to this style of learning or an avid user, we will be here with you every step to ensure you are set up and accomplish your educational goals to give you the best start.

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Torres Strait coastal image

Swinburne Open Education acknowledges Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples should be aware that this website may contain images or names of people who have since passed away.

For more information, you can view an interactive map of Indigenous Australia.

Your course is comprised of a series of modules (listed in your course overview). Each module will contain a series of topics, it is important that you move through these sequentially as each builds on the last. The way to get the most out of your learning is to spend time reflecting on what you have learned and checking your understanding through the learning activities. These learning activities are not part of your assessments but are a good way to prepare yourself before commencing the assessment(s) for each module. Each module requires you to complete assessments before your can progress to the next. Once you have submitted your last assessment in the module, the next module will open for you (as per the diagram below).

A diagram depicting sequential modules with underlying tasks, assessments and discussion forums

a person sitting alone on a stone bench with a laptop and a cup of coffee on one hand

Trainers

Your trainers are available to assist you with all things related to your course content and assessment. Your trainers are available through the student forums (located in each module) and through the platform messaging feature. Your trainers will also hold regular live sessions, check the "live sessions" link under your profile picture to view and book into all upcoming sessions. 

Student Success Coach

A student success coach will be working with you to ensure you succeed. From helping you get started with your course and monitoring your progress, your Student Success Coach will ensure you stay on track with your studies.

Student Support

Student Support is available to assist you with all non-academic questions and enrolment variations. Student Support is available through the platform by clicking on your profile image or by phone 1300 635 480 (option 1).

IT Issues

For any issues relating to accessing the Swinburne Open Education platforms or materials, please contact Student Support.

Peers

Online study does not mean that you are alone, there is a community waiting to meet you within the student forums. Your peers are a great way to support you as you study and are your first step in networking to help you in your career.

While your course is self-paced with no fixed assessment deadlines, it is important that you set your own goals as having these will help you succeed.

Utilizing the estimated hours for each module (listed in the Course Overview) you can start to plan your own study schedule. To do this, you can start by asking yourself a series of questions:

  • How many hours a week can I dedicate to study?
  • When do I want to finish my course?
  • Do I have anything I need to plan a study break for?

Once you have answered the above questions you can start to schedule your own study plan by completing the Study Planner (located in your Course Overview) see a completed example below:

Now you understand how your course is structured, let's look at your new career.

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a person with a laptop on one hand, a notebook on the other and a cup of coffee on the table
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