Good Practice for Online Learning

As we move more toward online learning due to the COVID-19 situation we have gathered advice for ensure the sessions go as smoothly as possible.

In Advance of the Course

• Ensure the course meets ULR and Learner demand
• Ensure ULRs and Learners are confident in accessing Online Learning and
• Ensure ULRs and Learners know what to expect
• No. of hours / sessions / necessary time etc for homework
• Ensure course participants have access to necessary hardware and software
• Test mic and video camera (if used)
• Read all papers prior to the course
• Complete all relevant paperwork

Key Elements

• Induction for all learners (before the course starts)
• Familiarise learners with the Learning Platform
• Familiarise learners with Online Study Skills
• Familiarise learners with paperwork
• Complete all course registration paperwork
• Tutor to follow up with learners that are experiencing Learning Platform issues after the Induction (by phone if necessary)
• Ensure learners know what to expect from the course
• Have a slot to speak about the union

Support for Learners

Provide additional Tutor support where required (this will be more relevant to courses which run over several sessions and are accredited)

Session Hours

Where a programme of learning would normally take place over a series of days, then this should be split into a series of shorter sessions

During the Course

• Have paper and pens ready to take notes with
• Switch to MUTE on joining the course
• Remain on MUTE when not speaking
• UNMUTE to answer questions or contribute as necessary
• State your name (and workplace if necessary) when you begin speaking
• Direct your input through the Tutor
• Make use of Instant Messaging / Chat facilities to note intentions to speak
• Continue to share ideas and suggestions – just as you would if you were attending in person
• Try to keep noise/distractions to a minimum
• Log in 5 minutes before the start time – to ensure connectivity
• If joining the meeting from a mobile device, ensure you have the ‘dial-in’ number and conference ID
• Where possible, take part in the meeting from a quiet space – to prevent background noise
• Silence or switch off other handheld devices
• Close down distractions on your computer (e.g. e-mail)
• Ensure you allow others to finish speaking before responding – this will help to avoid any confusion or contributions being missed.
• Speak to the point and be as concise as possible
• Be respectful of others

Following the Course

• Hold a post-course session with the ULRs and Learners (without the Learning Provider)
• If the course runs over several weeks, keep in contact with the ULRs
• Complete all relevant paperwork

Free Courses (Individual Learning)

• Aim to collectivise individualised learning opportunities.
• The information above can largely be translated for free courses. The union can organise regular peer-led sessions to support learners through to completion. If necessary, a ‘wrap-around’ course could be organised with the inclusion of Learning Provider to provide study skills support.