University of Otago Distance Learning


This handbook provides information to support you throughout your distance study at Otago.

AskOtago is the 'go-to place' for all enquiries. Find answers instantly with AskOtago's searchable knowledgebase, or call, email or chat with them.

Check the 2020 Guide to the Library for information and services offered by the University Library.

Please feel free to contact the Distance Learning Office if you can't quite find what you're looking for. Our email address is distance.learning@otago.ac.nz and we aim to respond within 48 hours.

You should bookmark this to make it easy to find when you need it!


NOTE WELL:

This handbook is an 'in-house' document produced by Distance Learning Office. It is intended for enrolled students in Distance Learning courses at the University of Otago.


  1. Welcome!

    Kia ora koutou, and welcome to the University of Otago! Read more…
  2. Key Dates 2020

    It's important to be aware of the key dates for the University of Otago. Read more…
  3. Otago Campuses and Key Contacts

    *The University of Otago is a national university with a physical presence throughout New Zealand. Distance learning programmes can ... Read more…
  4. Communicating with the University

    *Remember to update your contact details to ensure you get the latest communications from the University. Read more…
  5. Support Services

    There are a wide range of services for students studying at a distance. Read more…
  6. Administration

    Important information regarding changes of course, contact details, etc. Read more…
  7. Student ID card and number

    Your ID card is your key to what Otago has to offer. It identifies you as a member of the University of Otago community, provides ... Read more…
  8. Assessment at Otago

    There are a number of ways coursework can be submitted for assessment. Read more…
  9. Examinations

    The Student Administration, Exams team advises students regarding examination-related matters and administers Special Consideration, ... Read more…
  10. Copyright

    What you need to know about copyright while you are studying at Otago. Read more…
  11. Academic Progress Policy

    Students attending the University of Otago are expected to perform at a satisfactory academic level. Read more…
  12. Graduation

    All the hard work has paid off. You can attend in person or simply organise for a digital copy of your qualifications. Read more…
  13. Ordering Textbooks

    Books prescribed for your course will usually be available from the University Book Shop (Otago) Ltd (UBS) Read more…
  14. Doctoral Candidates

    How the University can support you... Read more…
  15. Online learning environments

    Online learning environments provide access to course materials, discussion forums, workshops, quizzes, blogs and wikis, and online ... Read more…
  16. Video: Web conferences - Zoom!

    The video link above shows you how easy it is to join a Zoom web conference for your classes! Read more…
  17. Audio conferences

    Some distance papers offered by the University of Otago are taught via the University’s national Audioconference network. Read more…
  18. Audio-visual Resources

    Course material and other information may also be available in a range of multimedia formats (in addition to print). Read more…
  19. Residential / Block Workshops

    Residential/Block workshops may be part of the paper you have enrolled in. These events may be optional or mandatory, but are always a ... Read more…
  20. Student Learning Development Support

    The Higher Education Development Centre (HEDC) offers Student Learning Development (SLD) services to support distance students at all ... Read more…
  21. The Library

    See the Guide to Library Services for information and services offered by the University Library. Read more…