Distance learning with a difference
10/15/2015
STUDENTS, both on and off campus, have been given a boost thanks to Evocca College's new blended learning centre.
The new floor was opened recently at the Bell St campus and provides current distance students with a physical location where they can gain face-to-face support and study advice.
Evocca College Ipswich campus manager Mark Cresswell said the new blended learning floor was part of the organisation's mission to ensure each student was provided with the support they needed to succeed.
"We already offer one-on- one tutoring to all of our students, whether they're studying distance or in campus," he said.
"This new learning model is about also providing distance students with a physical place where they can turn to if they're looking for guidance, or when they're about to embark on their first placement.
"It's also where they can go to give presentations and participate in workshops that are part of their courses."
Rebecca Phillippe, a team leader at the college, said the new blended learning floor provided students with staff support, new computers and all the tools they needed to succeed.
"With our enrolments increasing rapidly, we needed more space," Ms Phillippe said.
"It's become our first quiet floor, so it's a great place for our students to focus on their studies."
Ipswich student Annette Megna said while she enjoyed being able to study online, she also benefited from being able to go into the campus to meet fellow students and teachers.
"My confidence has grown so much since I started studying," Ms Megna said.
"Although I preferred to study distance, it was great to also have the campus to turn to, particularly during my vocational placement.
"Evocca helped me get back out into the community again."
By Anna Hartley