Frequently Asked Questions

I'm worried that working on-line, I might feel a bit isolated; will I get help?

The modules are designed so that you work interactively with other course participants. Your tutor will also log on every day and is available to help and guide you through the module. You can communicate directly with your tutor through the on-line Message facility and with other course participants. If you are logged on at the same time as another course participant, you have the opportunity to chat with them. Although you are not working with fellow participants in a classroom setting, we aim to run this module as a course with a dedicated tutor and lots of interaction and support.

I've never done an on-line course before; will I need a lot of technical and IT know-how?

Once you enroll on the module and your payment is processed, you will be sent full instructions about how to access the on-line modules. The week prior to the start date is for you to work through the Orientation Module which familiarizes you with Moodle, the VLE [Virtual Learning Environment] we will be using. This week also allows you to get to know your tutor and the other course participants. Previous course participants have commented that Moodle is easy and straightforward to use, once you have worked through the Orientation Module. However, your tutor is always available if you have any problems or questions.

How long does each module last?

Each module lasts for 8 weeks from the start date for that module. The Orientation Module lasts for 1 week prior to your module start date.

How much time am I expected to spend per week on the module?

We anticipate that you will spend a minimum of 4 - 5 hours per week. This time includes the time you spend on-line, associated reading and research tasks which may be set as part of the module you are following, and posting to the Discussion Forums [as well as reading and responding to the postings of your co-participants]. You may, of course, choose to spend more time than this, but it is unlikely that you will spend less. We would strongly advise you to log on at least once a day so that you can participate fully in the discussions and also support your co-participants.

Do I have to log on at specific times?

No, the times you log on are entirely up to you. There are no fixed times when all participants are expected to be on-line, as many of you will be working in different time zones from each other and your tutor. However, when you log on you can see on the right hand side of your screen if any of your co-participants are also logged on, and you have the facility to chat to them in real time.

Can you tell me if there is a limit to the number of modules I can do at one time?

There is no limit, but feedback from previous participants indicates that it would be unwise to undertake more than one module at a time. While 4 or 5 hours a week may not sound like a lot, in fact it can be quite hard to fit this into a busy professional and personal life. Of course you know your own circumstances best, but we would advise you to restrict yourself to following one module at a time.

Do I have to take all the modules?

No, the number and selection of modules is entirely up to you.

Is there an examination?

No, there is no examination.

Will I be given a certificate at the end?

Yes, on completion of the module you will be given a certificate which outlines the topics covered in the training module.

What would be the deadline for applying for a course?

We need to receive and process your application at least a week before the specified starting date for each module. You also need to allow the 4 - 5 hours you will need to work through the Orientation Module prior to starting your chosen Management Training Module.

Do these modules lead to anything else after I have completed them?

Participants have the option to submit a written assignment for assessment, set and marked by IH London, after completion of the relevant module. Successful completion of 4 of these modules + assignments will lead to the award of the International House Diploma in Educational Management Skills This Diploma is credit-bearing towards the MSc TESOL offered by Aston University, which is also a Distance Learning Programme. This is equivalent to a full module on this Master�s programme.

The option to submit written assignments remains open for 12 months after your completion of the relevant module.