Our world, your place by Distance Learning

Appendix II - Background of Distance Education at the University of Otago

The University has been active in the distance learning field since 1986, predominantly at postgraduate level.

It is clear from the range of distance qualifications and papers offered throughout New Zealand and overseas that Otago is committed to distance education.

This statement in the University’s Strategic Direction to 2020 makes it very clear:

While Otago will remain a predominantly campus-based university, we will continue our commitment to distance learning and to other forms of course delivery, especially at the postgraduate level in areas where we have particular expertise.

Contributing to over 130 qualifications, approximately 400 papers currently have approval to be taught in distance mode.

30 years of Distance Learning at the University of Otago

In 2016, a celebration of 30 years of distance learning at the University of Otago was held. A book was written to commemorate this important milestone. Download a free copy of this book, Our World in Your Place: 30 years of distance learning and teaching at the University of Otago here.

The University's Distance Education Strategy to 2020

The Distance Education Strategy to 2020 is worth reading for understanding the context and future direction of distance learning at Otago.

The purposes of, and benefits gained by, the University from involvement in distance learning include:

  • protecting the EFTS base in targeted discipline areas and strengthening the financial viability of Departments;
  • increasing post graduate EFTS with minimal added pressure on campus facilities;
  • enhancing the range of the University’s teaching skills and pedagogical approaches, with the potential for transferring these to the on-campus environment;
  • extending or diversifying the University’s potential to engage with other providers in collaborative programme development and teaching;
  • engaging overtly with the government’s Tertiary Education Strategy in relation to cooperation, IT-based innovation, lifelong learning, extending access; and most importantly,
  • enabling students to engage in studies not otherwise available to them.

Oversight and Policy Advice

Distance Learning Advisory Board (DLAB)

Established in 2008, the Distance Learning Advisory Board reports to the University Senate. The DLAB’s Terms of Reference are:

To advise the Senate on policy and procedures relating to Distance Learning,

  • To advise the Senate on policy and procedures relating to Distance Learning;
  • To assist the Director, Distance Learning to ensure that Distance Learning operates in accordance with policy and to provide guidance for the ongoing development of Distance Learning;
  • To promote the University of Otago as a centre for excellence in Distance Learning,
  • To promote Distance Learning in Divisions and Departments, in accordance with the Strategic Direction for the University approved by Council;
  • To promote Distance Learning as a means to further the University's commitment to internationalisation;
  • To recommend guidelines and provide advice to those responsible for the administration and technological support of Distance Learning, particularly on the academic dimensions of these facets of Distance Teaching;
  • To consider any other matters relating to Distance Learning and Teaching referred to it.

Under the leadership of Professor Vernon Squire, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), the Advisory Board’s current membership can be viewed on the University website.