Blending the Best of Both Worlds

Blending the Best of Both Worlds

Online learning has grown rapidly over the last five years. However, research suggests that some courses taught solely via the net have a high drop out rate. WelTec tutor Pam Protheroe has taken on this challenge in her Business Communication course combining the best of both the virtual world and real world with a ‘blended learning’ approach.

“Blended learning gives people the convenience of completing many assignments from the comfort of their own home or workplace but also gives them an opportunity to see the tutors and their peers in person as well” says Pam.

“This style of learning is particularly relevant to the business world. As more companies form global partnerships, you can be doing business with people from all over the world without ever actually meeting them face to face.

“It’s about collaborative learning. Our students will complete a business enterprise project by pairing up with students from the Pacific region through the internet.” Wellington City Council are sponsoring a prize of $1000 for the creators of the best project.

Students can complete much of the course online from their home or office, by engaging in online discussion boards, ‘real time’ sessions and placing their own research findings on the website to share and gain feedback from peers. Not forgetting the personal touch though, there is also a two hour lecture each week, offered during the day or evening, as well as a face to face hour-long tutorial.

People wishing to brush up on their business communication skills or learn something new can visit the WelTec website, www.weltec.ac.nz, for further information.

ENDS