Lerna Australia

Studying online at universities in Australia typically involves doing coursework and assessment via an online learning management system. Everything you need to finish the course is made available on your e-learning platform. You can anticipate a quality education, similar to the high general standard for Australian universities.

Expect to have classmates. Even though the classes are held online, students are still part of a cohort and interact with one another through various digital platforms such as discussion boards, video conferencing and online chat. As part of your online study experience, you'll have opportunities for collaborative learning, peer-to-peer feedback, and social interaction. Some programs also incorporate synchronous learning components where students can attend live online classes and engage with their classmates and instructors in real-time.

Many programs do have a weekly schedule for students to follow. The schedule typically includes assignment due dates and any required participation in discussions or other activities. Some classes may have live online sessions that are scheduled at specific times each week. Others may be self-paced, with course materials available at all times and allowing students to complete them at their own pace.

Online learners need to be self-motivated and manage their time effectively to keep up with the course work. You're given flexibility to learn on your own time and pace, but still must adhere to the deadlines and schedule given by the course.

Assessment is less likely to be exam-based compared with on-campus courses. For example, student achievement may be evaluated using individual or group projects, assignments, and quizzes. Exams are actually quite rare among postgraduate courses which have been designed just for external learners.

The graduation process is generally similar to that for on-campus study. You'll receive a traditional degree or qualification, without "online" mentioned anywhere. And you'll usually have the option to participate in the university's annual graduation ceremony.

Practical learning involves physical or one-on-one activities that are conducted in-person. In-person components are essential for professional degrees in fields such engineering, nursing, social work, and teaching.

Australian universities integrate hands-on learning into an online course in ways such as these:

• Residential schools. On-campus visits of 2 to 5 days. Students attend in-person classes and participate in hands-on activities, such as laboratory work, clinical simulations or field trips, to supplement regular coursework.
• Work placements. Students complete a certain number of hours of on-the-job training, internships or practical experience in a relevant field. For example, a future educator may be placed at a local school to gain teaching experience.
• Virtual experiences. Real-world experiences are simulated using tools such as virtual labs, remote access to equipment, and use of at-home equipment.

Generally speaking, there is little or no compromise with respect to education quality. When something important can't be done online, a way is found to make sure students gain the necessary knowledge and skills.

Online degrees are valid and are not considered any different to degrees earned by turning up to classes in person. The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) is the national policy for regulated qualifications in Australian and it applies to all qualifications, including those offered online.

Employers usually can't tell if you've earned your degree online. And, if they do know you were an online learner, they may be impressed by your motivation to study for a degree this way. To succeed with online learning, you generally need to well organised and disciplined.

We recommend researching online universities based on the particular kind of program you're interested in.

For example, some universities are not known for their online courses but may offer the best programs in certain categories. That happens when they invest heavily in particular programs, such as postgraduate business courses. Conversely, some universities may have an excellent reputation for delivering online programs while being quite weak in certain areas.

Lerna Australia researches courses by field of study (e.g. information technology) and study level (e.g. undergraduate or bachelor degrees). That allows us to identify the best universities for a given kind of study program.

Support services that may be available to online students include:

• Student success advisor: A person available to provide guidance and support on course selection, degree requirements, and other academic matters.
• Online tutoring services (for some courses): Help with specific course material or assignments.
• Technical support: Access to technical support to help with any issues with the learning platform or other technology.
• Library services: Online library services, such as access to electronic resources and research assistance.
• Student support services: Access to counseling and mental health services, career services, and disability support services.

Australian universities try to foster a sense of connection, offering virtual community events, student groups and discussion groups for students to connect with their peers. Overall, they aim to provide participants with the same level of support and resources as on-campus students, to help ensure their success and satisfaction with their study experience.