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What is Distance Learning?
Q: How does distance learning work?
A: Distance learning is off campus, flexible learning that allows you to follow campus-based programmes, that you can study at home or work when it’s convenient for you. We provide you with professionally-developed study materials. The study materials have been developed to provide sequential learning with continual access to self-assessment and task-based progress measurement. You will be allocated a tutor for academic support who you can contact as often as you like by email and telephone. You will also have access to a student support co-ordinator who will be there for administrative advice to make your learning experience successful and enjoyable.
For most of our programmes you will also have access to our online university - ilearn. You will be able to access course information, tasks/activities, engage in discussions with tutors and fellow students, access the online library and download past papers and assignments.
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Q: Are the study materials text-based or online?
A: Study materials are text-based or online or a mixture of both, depending on which programme you choose. We courier your materials to you and you work from home. You will receive everything you require to successfully complete your programme. In most cases, you will also receive a library card and access to an online university - ilearn.
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Q: Do I need a computer?
A: We recommend you have access to a computer with access to the internet and email as a minimum for all of our programmes. For some programmes there are specific software requirements. Please contact RDI on FREEphone 0800-COURSES / 0800 268 7737 for further information.
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Q: Will there be any classroom lectures or workshops? Will I be able to meet my tutor face-to-face?
A: There are no compulsory lectures or workshops, unless specifically stated. The programmes are designed to be 100% distance learning. Each programme is fully supported by an academic tutor and student support co-ordinator. You are able to contact our staff whenever you need to, via email or telephone.
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Q: Is ilearn mandatory?
A: ilearn - RDI's online university - is mandatory for students studying the online programmes. However, for other programmes ilearn is there to enhance student’s learning and does not replace the normal comprehensive paper based study materials.
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Q: Is the qualification the same as that which campus students receive?
A: Yes. Curriculum, course content and assessment are the same, regardless of method of study so there is no distinction on the qualification itself. You receive exactly the same award and certificate from the UK university as a campus-based student.
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Q: Is there a graduation ceremony?
A: For most of our university accredited programmes you will be invited to a formal graduation ceremony, usually held on the university campus with full time students.
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How does Distance Learning fit around me?
Q: How long does it take?
A: It depends on the programme but most programmes have a minimum and maximum study period. Generally you will spend as much or as little time as you would if you were taking the programme by formal part-time study but this is, of course, very flexible.
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Q: I work full-time and have a family, how will I find the time?
A: Flexibility is key. All of our programmes allow you to work full-time as you can fit your studies around your job and personal commitments. Our programmes require from as little as 8 hours per week study time. Your student support co-ordinator is always on hand should you need to extend a deadline or defer your studies. In most cases, you can take up to five years or more to complete your programme, although many complete within one or two years. Many of our students work full and have family commitments. Click here to find out more about our students.
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Q: Can I study anywhere in the world?
A: Yes. Programmes are flexible with study materials that allow you to study completely independently. The only compulsory campus attendance is normally for examination purposes, which can be arranged locally if you are overseas.
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Q: How many hours per week should I devote?
A: We recommend between 8 and 15 hours per week, depending on the programme. Flexible learning is about good time planning and building momentum. It is also about self-motivation. Regular study is more effective than heavy but intermittent periods of study. Always plan to spend as much time on the programme as you would by part-time formal study.
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Q: What if I need more time to complete my studies, can I take a break?
A: If you fall behind, become ill, relocate or need to defer your studies we will always try our best to accommodate you and your student support co-ordinator will be on hand to explain the options available to you.
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Q: What happens if I fail something?
A: Don’t worry, if you fail as assessment you are allowed at least one resubmission. Your academic tutor will provide you with detailed feedback to help prepare you for your resubmission.
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Q: How do I sit exams?
A: Some online courses will be assessed online. UK students can sit their examinations at RDI’s Midland Management Centre in Coventry or at the relevant university. Examinations can be arranged locally for overseas students, although this will incur an additional charge. To find out more please contact RDI on 0800 COURSES / 0800 268 7737.
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Q: Will I be able to succeed?
A: We believe that your success is our success. Our experienced, friendly programme advisors will assist you through the application process to ensure you enrol on to a programme that is right for you. Motivation, time management and organisation on your part, combined with quality study materials and superior support throughout your studies are key to your success. To find out how others have found our courses - click here .
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Q: What if I find the course too hard?
A: We will not enrol you on to a programme unless we are confident that you will succeed. If you feel that you have started at the wrong level, let us know and we’ll transfer you to the right one, where possible. We also offer a MONEY BACK GUARANTEE which means you can try a course and if you are not completely satisfied for whatever reason you can return your materials within 30 days and receive a full refund.
Please contact RDI on FREEphone 0800 COURSES / 0800 268 7737 for terms and conditions.
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Application, Fees and Enrolment
Q: Will I be able to afford it? How do I pay?
A: Paying for your studies is an investment in your future. It should not be viewed as an expense or cost because there is clear evidence to show that qualifications lead to an increase in salary. However, paying for your studies is not always easy, so we suggest you consider the various funding options here.
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Q: What do the fees include?
A: All study materials, either text-based or online and student handbooks are supplied. For many of our programmes core text books are also included. You will be allocated a tutor for academic support who you can contact as often as you like by email and telephone. You will also have access to a programme co-ordinator for administrative support. For most programmes you will be invited to an optional induction day or complete an online induction and you will have access to an online Virtual Campus.
There is no application or enrolment fee, this service is completely free of charge.
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Q: I have plenty of work experience in my area of interest but no real qualifications. Can I still apply?
A: For many courses, experience can be just as valuable as qualifications so if you haven’t studied for a while you need not be at a disadvantage. Each applicant is considered on his or her individual merits. Call us today on 0800 268 7737 or 024 765 15700 if you have any questions about your eligibility.
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Q: I have been asked to give certified copies of my certificates. What does this mean and how do I get this done?
A: Due to authentication checks - photocopies or scanned copies of your
original certificates cannot be accepted on their own. Copies of your original
certificates must be stamped/signed and dated by a solicitor, the post
office, your bank or someone else in authority before sending them to
us. Alternatively, you can send your originals by recorded post. We
will then certify the copies ourselves and return them to you by
recorded post. Please contact your programme advisor on 024 765 15700
or 0800 268 7737 for further details.
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Q: I already have a qualification. Will this qualification allow me to gain exemptions from the course and will the cost be reduced?
A: Different procedures apply for different programmes. It is often possible to gain exemptions based on previous qualifications and work experience. The best way to find out is to apply. All applications for exemptions will be considered on merit. If exemptions are granted the cost of the programme may not necessarily be affected.
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Q: When does the programme start and when is the application deadline?
A: This depends on your chosen course. Some university programmes have four intakes during the year – January, April, July and October - but you need to ensure your application arrives with us a month before the intake is due to begin. For some qualifications it is often possible to start at any time. To ensure you achieve your first choice course apply online today or please contact your programme advisor on 024 765 15700
or 0800 268 7737
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