September 2004
Research

Virtual Authors Get Online

Three international authors are helping degree students with their studies after recording a series of short "question and answer sessions" which can be accessed at any time online.

Internationally renowned writers Margaret Parkin, Alan Mumford and Alastair Rylatt have all visited the University to record on web-video answers to key questions from students and tutors as part of the Master's in Education, Training and Development.

Author Margaret Parkin, Alan Cattell and Peter Hartley (centre)

Students on the course, run by the School of Lifelong Education and Development, complete modules by a combination of open and distance learning and access learning materials and presentations - including the video clips - online. Additionally, students can contact the authors via their websites.

The students have dedicated message boards where they exchange ideas about topics related to course assignments. There is even a virtual online café where students can socialise.

Course director Alan Cattell said: "This is really open and distance learning in its truest form. We find we are building a really strong support network between students and tutors who meet face to face infrequently."

Online activity, including producing the videos, was designed by course tutor Neil Currant with Alan.

The MEd boasts a diverse range of students, from police officers to private consultants and senior training managers, some of whom are working from other parts of the world.

Most students attend five residential programmes during the two years, but the University is to pilot a 100% distance-learning version of the course.

28 September 2004

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