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Teaching

Distance Learning Tutoring Diploma

The Distance Learning Tutoring Diploma aims to provide knowledge on what is required in the role of a Distance Learning Tutor. Distance learning can be described as a formalised teaching and learning system which is specifically designed to be carried out remotely by using various media other than face to face.

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Level 3 / Quality Licence Scheme / ODL58

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Course summary

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Expert Tutoring

12 months tutor support

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24hr Access to

Course, assignments & tutor

qualification

Endorsed by the

Quality Licence Scheme

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NUS Card Eligibility

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Course introduction

Distance learning is less expensive to support and is not constrained by geographic considerations, therefore it offers opportunities in situations where traditional education has difficulty operating, and students and tutors can access the process at convenient times which enables other commitments to be fulfilled and also means that a wide diverse student cohort can be catered for. <p >This QLS Level 3 Diploma course is delivered over ten modules and is suitable for those who wish to enter distance learning as tutors and learner supporters. There is an assumed basic knowledge of education delivery and specialist subject knowledge.

Distance learning is becoming a growing area of education delivery, particularly with the availability of various information technologies which can be adapted, harnessed and utilised to enhance student experiences. This course seeks to highlight these technical advances and provide explicit guidance on their use within this specialised learning environment.

Each module is followed by activities which you are encouraged to complete, together with keeping a reflective journal as part of the course. This journal can be used towards continued professional development.

The course culminates with a formal online examination.

This completes the brief overview of the course content. The course is designed to be informative, enjoyable and motivating. Once you have completed the course and been successful in the online examination, you should have a sound grounding and underpinning knowledge of what is required within a distance learning tutor role and be equipped to expand your knowledge and acquire practical experience.

Required knowledge

No previous knowledge or experience is essential to study this course.

Assessment

Final online multiple choice examination counts for 100% of the final grade. Throughout the course there are ten SAPs (coursework) and a thesis.

The course clearly states that this is not mandatory to complete as it has no bearing on the final grade.

We do suggest that students complete these as this will not only assist them in examination preparation but also will give the student the skill set should they wish to continue their studies (continuous professional development) at a higher level.

Certification

At the end of this course successful learners will receive a Certificate of Achievement from Quality Licence Scheme and a Learner Unit Summary (which lists the components the learner has completed as part of the course). 

The course has been endorsed under the Quality Licence Scheme. This means that the provider has undergone an external quality check to ensure that the organisation and the courses it offers, meet defined quality criteria. The completion of this course alone does not lead to a regulated qualification* but may be used as evidence of knowledge and skills gained. The Learner Unit Summary may be used as evidence towards Recognition of Prior Learning if you wish to progress your studies in this subject. To this end the learning outcomes of the course have been benchmarked at QLS Level 3 against level descriptors published by Ofqual, to indicate the depth of study and level of demand/complexity involved in successful completion by the learner. 

The Quality Licence Scheme is part of the Skills and Education Group, a charitable organisation that unites education and skills-orientated organisations that share similar values and objectives. With more than 100 years of collective experience, the Skills and Education Group’s strategic partnerships create opportunities to inform, influence and represent the wider education and skills sector. 

The Skills and Education Group’s knowledge and experience of working within the awarding sector enables them to work with training providers, through the Quality Licence Scheme, to help them develop high-quality courses and/or training programmes for the non-regulated market. 

*Regulated qualification refers to those qualifications that are regulated by Ofqual / CCEA / Qualification Wales 

Course modules

Module 1: Introduction to distance learning
In this module we will look at the history of distance learning and how it continues to evolve.
Discussions will also cover definitions of distance learning and the concepts and models which have been used to theorise the approaches, requirements and methods of delivery.

Module 2: Education, theories and practices
Distance learning tutors have to be aware of underpinning educational theories and legislation, for example those that refer to lifelong learning, quality assurance and professional practices of course delivery.

In this module we will look at underpinning and relevant theories of education, discussing how they apply to distance learning. The course material will also present various models of learning and how these need to be adapted to suit distance learning, paying particular attention to issues of differentiation and skills development.

Module 3: Supporting students
Building from the content of module 2 we look at student requirements and categorization of learning skills:

- How do we learn?
- What do students expect from distance learning?
- How do we bridge the gap between traditional learning environments and the virtual learning environment?
- What is the common ground and how can we use this to the students' advantage?

The course will also cover areas about proactive support, blended learning and helping student to overcome specific issues in distance learning such as activity scheduling, isolation and motivation.
We also look at the different problems of supporting students such as time and funding inputs, boundaries and responsibilities, and dealing with various problems that might arise.

Module 4: Media used in distance learning
There are many computations of delivery methods in distance learning, and tutors need to be equipped to use a variety of mixed media. the module will cover the following:

- Correspondence tuition
- E-mail tuition
- Face to face supplementation
- Telephone tuition
- WIKIs
- Podcasts

In addition it will also discuss blended learning which is a mix of some or all of the above

Module 5: Skills development
This module looks at how the distance learning student can continue to develop their learning skills and how these can be appropriately assessed and supported within the remote environment. The module looks at the ways in which tutors can facilitate positive student experiences and help students to work towards achieving positive outcomes.

In this module we will also look at how the tutor can use student experiences in order to develop their own skills.

Module 6: Marking and feedback in detail
This module explores the different strategies in marking student's work and also addresses the psychological issues surrounding remote learning. The module will present various key ways to mark which are efficient and versatile but it will also present the pros and cons of marking approaches.

The feedback we give to students is critical to their learning experience and therefore we will explore how to convey positive feedback even when the overall achievement is poor. There will also be discussion on how distance learning tutors can help students to improve their skills in weak areas and maintain motivation, even within the virtual or e-leaning environments.

In this module you will draw on your journal to help build up personal marking strategies and guidelines which will help you in both time management and consistency (further explored in module 9)

Module 7: Access and differentiation issues in distance learning
In this module we look at access to courses, student entry points and how tutors manage these flexible parameters. In addition we will discuss the limitations of distance learning support, together with student responsibilities and expectations

Distance learning students often go missing' or leave the course. Tutors are not always party to personal information regarding students or administrations issues which would be informative. Therefore in this module will examine retention of students, strategies for improving retention and the theories which underpin these strategies; and what the tutor can do to maximise retention in their own courses

Module 8: Structures and quality in distance learning
There are various key aspects in delivery of positive and successful distance learning courses; these will be examined in detail:

- Organizational
- Appraisal and assessment
- Standards
- Continued professional development
- Quality, experience and reflexivity
- Professional bodies and ethics
- CRB checks and relevance of tutoring the under 18's

Module 9: Getting into distance learning as a tutor
This module will cover the normal requirements and experience necessary in a variety of posts such as GCSE. A level, Diploma and Degree. It will also cover the following fundamental processes:

- CV writing and how to express your experience in a positive way
- Looking at expectations
- How to assess your own experience and address shortfalls
- Look at professional and practical knowledge

Module 10: Keeping track
Normally the distance learning tutor will amass a huge amount of documentation, course materials and books, particularly if they tutor several awards or courses, This module looks at how you can minimise and handle this stuff'.

In addition, with multiple entry points, courses and awards, keeping track of students and key dates can be overwhelming; this module discusses these issues in depth and presents some frameworks which will helps to organise and record appropriately and efficiently. We will also cover the following:

- Issues of contact
- Boundaries of your position
- Responsibilities
- Getting information as a distance learning tutor
- Helpful resources and websites

Module 11: Expanding your role
Once you have some experience of distance learning tutoring you may wish to branch out into course writing or become an examiner. This module looks at some of the ways you can diversify and also discusses what is needed in order to fulfil the different roles:

- Becoming an examiner or marker
- Becoming a moderator
- Course writing
- Proof reading
- Branching out into RQF assessing or work-based assessing
- Special needs
- One to one tutoring

Learner support

This course offers 12 months student support. Tutors are available to answer student questions relating to course materials and to comment on the assignments that are sent in to state how well students have understood the unit content.

FAQs

What does NCC stand for?

NCC originally stood for the National Consortium of FE (Further Education) Colleges. This brought together the FE Colleges to achieve the best provision. Regular national meetings were attended by both Colleges and Government agencies who funded them. This was very helpful to them both to best deliver training to their students.

For more than 25 years NCC has supplied FE Colleges with learning materials as well as student marketing.

NCC now specialise in online training of a very high quality to students both self-funded, paid for by schools, employers and training providers.

What is distance learning?

Distance learning is the most flexible and convenient approach to studying. There is no need for you to attend college and you can study anytime, anyplace, anywhere that fits in with your lifestyle. Distance learning programmes are ideal for people who may have a job, family commitments, or any other commitment that won’t allow them time off to study.

What is the difference between the online and paper versions of courses?

Both our online and paper courses are completed via an online learning portal (LMS) which you can access after you receive your login details by email. Please ensure that you check your junk email if you do not receive your login details within 48 hours.

All learners will submit their assignments, receive feedback and correspond with their tutor directly through the LMS. If you require help from our support team, then simply email [email protected].

If you opt for the online course, you will not receive any course materials through the post. Everything is available via the LMS.

If you opt for the paper version, you are simply paying for a study book to be printed and posted to your home, or place of work. You will use this book as a reference guide, but you will still be required to upload your assignments and correspond with your tutor via the LMS.

If you are unable to access our online LMS, we do have alternative options available, so please email [email protected] in order to request further support.

What do I need to do to get started?

We recommend that you choose a course that will interest you and help you to achieve your ambitions. If you would like some advice, or further information, contact us here or dial 0333 3445 690.

To purchase a course, simply click on the ‘Buy now’ button against your chosen course and follow the on screen instructions. Alternatively if you would prefer to purchase the course over the phone, call 0333 3445 690 and speak to one of our expert course advisors.

How much will it cost?

The cost largely depends on the type and size of the course. The course cost is determined by the expenses associated with its provision, taking into consideration the course's size and complexity, development costs, the presence of a study materials, and the level of tutor support required. Some courses also necessitate additional in-person assessments by assessors, which incur additional expenses and consequently affect the course's cost.

All prices are clearly stated on the course description page and will always be displayed prior to you committing to purchase a course.

Please note that there may be additional fees required should your course require an external invigilated assessment, such as A Levels, ICB qualifications etc. To clarify, please speak to a course advisor.

How do I enrol?

Once you've chosen your course, you have two options for enrolment:


  1. You can purchase the course online by clicking the "Buy now" button, which will enrol you automatically.
  2. Alternatively, you can call our helpline at 0333 3445 690, and our expert course advisors will assist you in signing up for the course and arrange for the delivery of any requested additional learning materials to your address.

All courses are available to purchase in full or via affordable monthly payments over 12 months. A £29 non-refundable deposit is required for monthly payments, and you will be required to set up a monthly direct debit.

We do not require you to complete a credit check to sign up for monthly payments.

How quickly will I receive my course materials?

We guarantee that you will receive any course materials ordered within 5 working days of registering, but for many of our courses it may take no more than 48 hours.

The course materials are always sent to you via a tracked courier service, to ensure that you receive your study book within our stated period.

Do I need any additional books or equipment to do my course?

All the relevant information required to complete your course is available via the LMS. Additional research via the internet is encouraged, depending on the level you are working at, to bolster knowledge of the subject area.

There is no requirement to purchase any additional materials.

What support will I receive?

You will have access to a dedicated personal tutor whom you can contact through the Learning Management System (LMS) for assistance and guidance on any course-related matters. Your tutor will only initiate contact in response to your messages. If you encounter any difficulties reaching your tutor, please don't hesitate to email us at [email protected]

Many courses require you to submit work to your tutor during the period of study, and your tutor will assess your work and provide feedback to you within 10 working days. Your tutor is available to you as much as you need them.

Please note that the course includes tutor support for a duration of 12 months. If you require additional time, please inform us, and we will make every effort to provide you with an option for a paid extension, if feasible, to assist you in completing your course.

Please be aware that our tutors are actively assisting multiple learners, and to ensure they are not inundated with excessive workloads, we have implemented a policy limiting learners to submitting a maximum of three units of work for evaluation at any given time. We recommend that you upload your completed units as you finish them. This way, you can benefit from your tutor's feedback to enhance your future assignment submissions.

How long will it take for my work to be marked by my tutor?

Your work will be marked and feedback returned to you within 10 working days after submission. This is because our tutors are required to provide detailed, considered feedback to our learners that may take a while to formulate. We find that by working this way, our learners actually complete their course in less time, as they rarely need to submit an assignment more than twice.

Whilst it is possible to submit multiple assignments at the same time, we advise that our learners submit only one at a time. We want our learners to develop as they progress through their course, and find this is best achieved when a student embarks on a new module having taken into account tutor feedback from the previous submission.

Kindly note that our tutors are currently supporting multiple learners simultaneously. In order to maintain a balanced workload for them, we have established a policy that restricts learners to submitting a maximum of three units of work for evaluation at any given time.

How long should it take to complete a course?

Depending on the course you have chosen, and the amount of time you can commit, it could take from 6 weeks to 12 months to complete your course. Your end of support date is when you need to have your course copmpleted by in order to be able to be certificated, this is usually 12 months from purchase.

The duration of the course is largely down to you. The beauty of home learning is that it allows you complete flexibility to fit your studies around your lifestyle and other commitments. You can dedicate as much, or as little, time as you want to your studies - no one will be chasing you for your work or asking why you haven’t submitted an assignment.

We do strongly recommend, though, that before you purchase a course you assess your ability to commit the necessary time to completing the course in a timeframe that will not leave you losing your motivation.

Will I have to sit an examination?

All of our courses are accredited, so you need to show that you have acquired the knowledge to pass the course – this may involve sitting an examination, but it depends on the course you have chosen.

Some courses require you to be continually assessed throughout the course, while others may require an end of course exam or assignment (which may be completed at home) to be submitted to your tutor.

Certain types of qualifications, A-levels and GCSEs for example, do require you to sit invigilated exams at a registered test centre. You will need to organise and pay for the examinations yourself, however full details of what you need to do will be available from the centre who are delivering the qualification.

If in doubt, please email [email protected], NCC can then discuss or put you in touch directly with the course provider.

Will I receive a qualification when I complete the course?

All of our courses are accredited and you will receive a certificate upon successful completion of the course.

For more information about this please see the section of the website that details how awarding bodies work and what the different types of qualifications are: https://www.ncchomelearning.co.uk/awarding-organisations

Can I take more than one course at a time?

Yes, you can take as many courses as your time allows, but we would recommend that you clearly evaluate how much time you can commit to your courses of study.

The good news is that if your circumstances change you can always take a limited break and come back to your studies to save your paid for support.

If you decide to enrol on more than one course at the same time, speak to our enquiries team for any bundle deals or offers.

Can I study from outside the UK?

Certainly, in most instances, there are no geographical constraints on where you can undertake your studies. However, it's important to note that specific courses may be subject to geographical limitations imposed by the Awarding Organisation, and these restrictions will be clearly stated in the course description.

You just need to be aware that all tutors are based in the UK and work may need to be submitted to them via post, although in most cases e-mail can be used.

Where the course requires that you sit an invigilated exam at a test centre, there are many exam centres outside of the UK. However, we would advise that you check with us before purchasing one of these courses if you want to study from abroad.

What if I’ve chosen the wrong course?

If, after receiving the course, you decide it isn’t the right course for you, you may return the materials within 14 days, provided you have not yet submitted any coursework for evaluation. Please note that you will be responsible for covering the return shipping costs. We will refund your payment, minus a non-refundable deposit of £29. Additionally, you have the option to select an alternative course that better matches your goals and aspirations.

For any help on cancelling your course please email [email protected], we will only deal with cancellation enquiries via email.

What is a Totum Card?

Totum is the new brand for UK student cards and replaces the old NUS student card. NCC students are eligible to sign-up for the Totum card where applicable, giving access to a multitude of retail, food and travel special discounts. For more information, you can visit their website: https://www.totum.com/

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