Most frequently asked questions:

What do you need to start?

A computer with an internet link. A broadband link will enable faster interaction and easier downloading of some materials especially multimedia.

Do you have to be expert on the computer?

No. Many participants have learned as they go. We ask every participant to take the induction module which helps you familiarize yourself with the on line tools and the style of working.

Is there anyone I can ask if I have technical difficulty during a course?

Yes. Your tutor might be able to help you with the commonest problems to do with the online module. For more technical issues concerned with linking into the modules we offer technical assistance online or by phone.

How will I log in?

We will send you your own user name and password that gives you safe and secure access into the learning site.

How modules work

Developing online learning communities

Ushaw Online aims at fostering collaboration and shared reflection within an online learning community.

Three people with laptop The online modules are made up of a number of study units which are opened and built up sequentially by the module tutor. Each module unit is based around study materials that incorporate a range of multimedia and interactive activities aiming at both independent and collaborative attention and including a discussion topic based on the content of the unit. Participants are placed into an online tutor group of anywhere between 6 and 20 persons for the duration of a module. Discussion forums provide the opportunity to share and discuss the module themes and issues among tutor and fellow students in asynchronous mode. Real-time conferencing is also available through a live chat link and whiteboard and will be negotiated once the module is in process.

Online learning depends upon frequent participation and regular engagement and communication. In order for it to work well for everyone, it needs a commitment to take part actively in the collaborative activities and online communications and discussions. We recommend that participants log in as much as they can. Some people will spend more time working online than others but a rough guide is that you should expect to spend a minimum of 1-2 hours a week online although be prepared to spend more time as you may be expected to do offline reading as well. The more you put in to your module, the more you will enjoy and benefit from the online experience.

How do modules work?

A secure, password-protected virtual learning environment hosts the online modules. Modules are scheduled throughout the year and are accessible from a personal computer 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. An online induction is provided to ensure confidence and familiarity with using the website tools while a technical advisory and support email service is also available. Modules are scheduled throughout the year and are accessible from a personal computer 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. An online induction is provided to ensure confidence and familiarity with using the website tools while a technical advisory and support email service is also available.

Ushaw Online’s modules are hosted in a virtual learning environment which provides a complete virtual classroom. All educational transactions normally done face to face can be carried out online.

Ushaw Online provides an internet-based learning system that brings together a range of educational tools and resources within a single interface. It enables a shared working space for users to interact online in live synchronous mode (many users at the same time) and in individual asynchronous mode (single user in his/her own time). The software includes a variety of tools to support multiple functions including the storing, delivering and organizing of learning materials as well as tools for online communication, for monitoring progress, for assessment and for course management.

Demonstration modules

Click here to view sample pages from one of our CCRS Online modules