Distance learning involves online, self-directed study using course material, interacting with lecturers and other students, and completing assessments. Most learning takes place in your own time and space, making distance study a flexible option for students balancing work, family, or other commitments. You can select distance learning papers the same way that you select other papers.
Information about the distance learning courses offered at the University of Otago can be found on the Distance learning at Otago website, and you can download a copy of the Distance Learning Prospectus:
Distance learning programmes and papers
Selecting distance learning papers in eVision
To select distance papers within the main paper selection page of eVision, choose those with an E as the third letter in the Occ (occurrence) column, for example:
| Paper | Name | Prd | Occ | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
CHTH111 |
Doing Theology |
S1 |
DNEA |
18 |
Attendance requirements and exams
Some papers involve attendance at on-campus or off-site residential schools, or in-person examinations. Residential schools typically run for two to five days. To check whether a paper includes a residential school or requires in-person attendance, review the list of distance learning papers on the website or contact the programme administrator for details.
Exams are usually held during the University’s main examination periods (February, June, and October/November). Where possible, distance students can sit exams at a local centre close to their semester address recorded in eVision.
International students (excluding New Zealand citizens living abroad) enrolling with the University for the first time should make enquiries via the International Office, where you can also receive information about admission requirements and the application process. International students are only able to enrol in distance papers that do not have any in-person components in New Zealand.
Learning environment and technology requirements
You will need internet access to study by distance learning. Most courses provide their material and interact with students through a web-based learning management system such as Brightspace, Blackboard, or Moodle, and may use web conferencing tools such as Zoom for live interactions. Email access is required to receive important University communications.
Course material is generally made available one to two weeks before the course starts. You will be able to access Brightspace, Blackboard, or Moodle once you have completed your course enrolment declaration, although individual papers may not appear until the first day of teaching. You may be able to obtain a reading list earlier by contacting your programme administrator.
As a guide to workload, an 18-point paper taught over one semester usually requires about 15 hours of study per week.
The University of Otago provides Microsoft Office 365 for students.
Further information
Course enrolment – Selecting your papers
Special Permission papers