Digital learning: information for UK pathway courses

How does digital learning work?

• What teaching methods are used?

  We’re committed to providing you with the same expert teaching that you’d experience in person at college. Indeed, you’ll have the same teachers, same classes and same schedule as you normally would — the only difference is that you’re attending your course online via digital platforms.

  You’ll still enjoy interactive classes with plenty of discussion and opportunities to improve your English, as well as self-study time to help you become an independent learner. You’ll also be assigned a Learning Adviser who will help you with any challenges you face, so that you stay on track to progressing to your chosen degree.

• What are synchronous (live) sessions?

  A synchronous session simply means that it takes place at some point during UK teaching hours (9am–6pm GMT). This is when you, your teacher and usually also your classmates, are present at the same time. For example:

  • Live video lectures and seminars​
  • Real-time interactive discussions with your tutor and ​other students​
  • Individual live tutorials​
  • One-to-one calls with your Learning Adviser​
• What are asynchronous (not live) sessions?

  An asynchronous session is when you study in your own time. During an asynchronous session, you could participate at a different time from others, and have some flexibility in when you study online. For example:

  • Recorded lectures, from which you then answer questions​
  • Completing tasks / assignments online​
  • Your own research and background reading ​
  • Email / instant messaging conversations and collaboration
• How do I access materials online?

  There are multiple platforms that we will be using to allow you to quickly and easily access learning materials online from home. ​​

  Typically, these platforms include your dedicated Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) for your college, as well as online video collaboration tools like Zoom and Microsoft Teams, plus email.​

  In some cases, you might use the learning platform of your college’s partner university, such as Blackboard.​

  In all cases, we’ll help you get set up!

• What equipment do I need?

  It doesn’t take much to fully engage with your course online. You just need:​ ​

  • A laptop or desktop computer with camera and microphone ​
  • Reliable internet access
  • ​A headset
  • ​An environment suitable for effective study without distractions
  • It also helps to get into a routine so that you get used to your study timetable​