Distance learning

Our distance learning online programmes allow you to study from home, or your workplace, at times that fit round your busy life. And there's no need to travel to our campus, because you can join us from anywhere in the world that has internet access.

Mode of study

Our masters programmes are made up of individual course modules. To opt for distance learning, you must select modules that are delivered online, when you enroll at the start of the academic year.

Online masters modules can also be taken as "stand-alone" courses, if you don't want to commit yourself to a full programme of study.

Virtual learning environment

Our online masters degrees are delivered through a web-based virtual learning environment (VLE). 

A VLE is an online 'classroom'. We use Blackboard and Moodle, two of the world's most popular platforms, for delivering online courses.

In our VLEs, students have access to:

  • study materials
  • collaboration tools, such as forums, databases and wikis, that allow students and tutors to work together online
  • communication tools, such as live audiovisual conferences, that enable students to interact with tutors, fellow students and administrators
  • online library access
  • assessment and feedback tools
  • progress checking and task completion tools
  • sources of administrative and technical support .

Computer specification

Distance learning students need regular access to a computer with internet access. And a printer (optional) if they want to print out materials.

You computer must have these features:

  • a browser installed (we recommend Internet Explorer 8 or Firefox 4)
  • your browser must accept cookies and have JavaScript enabled (if your computer is part of a network, for example a corporate network, check this with your network administrator)
  • the following minimum specifications (recommended specifications are given in brackets):
    - Platform: Windows 95 (XP); Mac OS 8.1 (OS X); Linux
    - Processor: 166 MHz (1 GHz); MAC: 508 PowerPC (Intel)
    - Memory: 32 MB (128 MB)
    - Modem: 56k (Broadband)
    - Screen resolution: 800 x 600 (1024 x 768)
  • these applications:
    - a word processor that reads Microsoft Word format (doc)
    - Acrobat Reader (pdf)
    - Java 6.

Run a test to see if your computer meets our requirements (click on the Test Browser button, in the section called "Browser Settings" in the bottom left-hand side of the page).

Live teaching sessions

For modules using live teaching sessions – ie audiovisual conferencing – you will need to connect these to your computer:

  • headphones (recommended) or loudspeakers 
  • a  microphone
  • alternatively, a headset (combined headphones and microphone)
  • webcam (optional).

See a demonstration of a live teaching session (this link will download a small file to  enable you to connect to a recording of the session; if your browser tries to block the download, by bringing up a yellow security bar at the top of your screen, please follow the instructions on the bar).

Student support

Throughout your studies, you'll have a tutor to guide you and give you feedback on your coursework. Your tutor can be contacted by phone or online. Support is also offered by fellow students and other IOE staff who are part of the online learning community associated with your programme.

Our academic writing centre offers students 1-2-1 support by email and online resources (see their Writing Centre website), to help you with your research and assignment writing skills.

Library and computing services

Our library and computer support helpdesks can be contacted by phone or online.

And you will find a range of self-learning materials, in your virtual learning environment (VLE), on topics such as:

  • how to use the VLE (hands-on)
  • software guides (covering MS Office applications and specialist software)
  • electronic library and research skills inductions.

The library provides electronic access to academic journals and a postal loan service for books. They offer an online library tutorial, as well as online guides, to help new students find their way around the library's wide range of resources.

Assesssment

Assessment is normally by coursework, submitted online or by post. Distance learning students who gradute with a masters degree are invited to attend an IOE graduation ceremony in London.