Facilitated learning gives best of both worlds

NorthTec and eCampus are collaborating to provide facilitated online learning in Northland Te Tai Tokerau – with face-to-face tutor sessions enhancing the experience for business students.

NorthTec is running weekly engagement or meeting points in Whangārei for eCampus learners studying via NorthTec. In addition to their online learning, which is supported by skilled and experienced tutors, learners can attend the sessions to discuss any study challenges with tutors, and form study groups with other learners.

Students of the New Zealand Diploma in Business (Level 5), via eCampus, can attend face-to-face and Zoom sessions twice a week. The days and times of the sessions can be adapted for each cohort of learners, enabling them to fit their studies around family commitments and full-time or part-time employment.

Lisette Buckle, NorthTec’s Pathway Manager for business, said: “Research has shown that some ākonga (learners) find it challenging to study fully online. This initiative gives them the best of both worlds, where they have access to high quality delivery alongside the resources that are already provided via eCampus, while taking advantage of eCampus fees.

“They get the flexibility of eCampus learning, which they do in their own time and at their own pace, with additional support through this engagement with tutors.

“The sessions are unstructured and take place in a relaxed atmosphere where students can ask any questions they might want help with, and can also meet other learners who are on the same journey. We’ve found that facilitating a “study hub” experience has many benefits for learners, helping them to form supportive study groups with their peers and enabling them to build confidence as well as knowledge.

“It’s all about putting the learner at the centre of their studies and meeting the needs of each individual.”

The sessions take place at NorthTec’s Raumanga campus and at the Bank Street City Centre Learning Hub in the Whangārei CBD. Learners have access to free Wi-Fi and on-site refreshments.

All existing NorthTec eCampus students are being contacted with information about the new facilitated learning sessions.

NorthTec also plans to offer the same service for its eCampus business students at the campuses in Kaitaia, Kaikohe and Kerikeri.