How you will learn
Learning online is enjoyable, effective and challenging. We help you get the most from the programme.
You will access all your courses using a web browser. In each course you will be presented with selected readings and video lectures.
You will take part in discussion fora and real time audio-conferencing with tutors and fellow students. Activities and assignments will develop your understanding, insight and skills. You should expect to devote seven to ten hours a week to studying.
Learning online
Learning online is not just convenient, it's also enjoyable, effective and challenging. You will access our 'virtual learning environment' in your web browser. Here you will interact with staff and fellow students, find all the course materials, resources and tools you need, and access to specialist support. All carefully organised and signposted.
"The course material has built up in a coherent, logical way, enabling me to put down sound foundations for my growing understanding of the international development field."
Readings and lectures
You will develop your knowledge through reading and lectures. While the balance varies between courses, you will typically read a wide range of carefully selected academic papers, policy documents, reports etc, and watch specially recorded lectures by leading academics at the university and external experts.
"I found it incredibly stimulating and the reading inflamed my interest in the topic. I thought the readings were chosen very carefully and were challenging but set up the discussions excellently."
Stimulating discussion
Discussion with tutors and fellow students will stimulate you to think critically about the issues covered, and to reflect on how they relate to your professional practice. Online fora allow you to contribute to the structured discussions at times that suit you.
"The way the course was structured, split over multiple videos and reading material, with weekly questions that put the material into context and tied the week's readings together, was a great way to learn."
Real-time tutorials using Skype-style audio and video conferencing give you the opportunity to engage in 'face to face' debate. Tutorials are recorded so you don't miss out if you none of the scheduled times work for you.
"I found the material very interesting and stimulating. I enjoyed the Skype session as it provided real contact with other members of the course."
Activities and assignments
You will develop your understanding, insight and skills through a range of activities and assignments including online tests and exercises, blogging, video making, project reports and essays.
"It was great being able to read about other people's projects and posts."