Flexible Learning FAQs

With flexible learning, a lecturer is not on hand to answer questions or to clarify things you do not immediately understand. You will not have fellow students with you to talk about the subject and to test out your ideas on. To be a successful learner you will need:

• to be able to work independently
• to realise that many hours of independent study will be needed - reading related textbooks and the open learning packs, undertaking activities, completing assignments and assessments
• to make time for study - to make up a realistic schedule and stick to it
• to set aside an appropriate area for study
• to arrange access to or to buy the equipment you might need - a computer, appropriate software, calculator, textbooks, a modem, etc. What you will need will depend on the subjects you choose.
• to realise that open learning is not an easy option.
• to be able to motivate yourself and be self-disciplined about your studies
• to realise that open learning may be a more expensive option than formal study

FAQs

1. How do I enrol?
2. Skills & experience
3. What College facilities are available to help me study
4. When can I use the Library and Learning Centre?
5. How will I know if I am progressing well? What if I have problems?
   
6. How long do the open learning courses take to complete?
7. What happens at the end of the course?
8. How do I find out about my results?
9. How do I get additional tutor support?
10. How will I get work to my tutor?

How do I enrol?

You will require to make the necessary arrangements to pay the course fees or, if you are eligible, to fill out the forms to apply for waiver of fees. Please see the section on fees for full details of costs. If you are not sure of the course you wish to study, you should speak to Admissions before you enrol.

Will I need any special skills or experience?

If you have been away from studying for a long time, or if you know that you have a weakness in any area, it may be wise to consider undertaking some pre-study courses before you start, particularly if you do not have good IT skills.  If you are unsure, or if you start to study and find you are having difficulties, speak to your tutor who will advise you on the specific skills needed for the unit(s) you will be undertaking.

What College facilities are available to help me study?

As a College student, you will be entitled to enrol for membership of the College Library and use the Learning Centre. Your membership will be valid for as long as you are undertaking study under flexible or online learning. However, if your study extends beyond an academic session, you may be required to re-enrol.

You will be asked to sign an undertaking to abide by the College code of conduct for the use of computers and for access to the Internet and Library. You will be issued with a Student Handbook which contains details of Health & Safety regulations, codes of conduct, student facilities and support.

If you choose an information technology subject that requires computer access, there is an allocation of computer access hours included in the cost of the pack for those who need to use a computer in College. You are advised to book well in advance if you require use of a computer or specific software. Sessions are normally calculated on an hourly basis. If you have booked time on a computer but are unable to attend it is very important to let us know as failure to turn up will result in 1 or 2 hours being deducted from the total available hours.

When can I use the Library and Learning Centre?

For operational reasons, opening times may sometimes vary. Advance booking is advised to ensure that the resources you require are available. Core skills profiling and tutor support can be arranged in basic skills, IT, numeracy. Careers and job search resources.

Email:  library@slc.ac.uk
Tel: 01355 807308

How will I know if I am progressing well?  What if I have problems?

You will be given a progress sheet on which you will record your hours and the work you have undertaken each time you attend. It is important to complete the progress record as it will help you and the tutor next time you attend.  If you are having problems with the unit you are studying, you should contact your Tutor. The contact number for the Tutor will be given to you when you start your studies.

How long do the flexible learning courses take to complete?

A notional number of hours are allocated to each course, however some students will take longer and some will finish earlier. If you do need extra tuition, that can be arranged. If you need additional hours on a PC, that too can be arranged. The additional fee will depend on the amount of extra time you need. You will not need to pay the full course fee again for just a few hours more support or a few more hours on a computer.

What happens at the end of the course?

Once you have completed a course pack or have passed all the assessments, your course is complete and your tutor will log your results. If you have completed an SQA unit then your certificate will be sent to you in due course by the Scottish Qualifications Authority. For courses that are not accredited by SQA, a College certificate can be arranged, provided you have satisfactorily completed the work.

How do I find out about my results?

In the first instance you should check with your Tutor or check online through the Student Portal.  You will require to give your student ID number and password to log in.  Please remember to inform the College if you change your name or address during your course. If you do not, your certificate may not reach you and you will be charged by SQA for a replacement certificate.

How do I get additional tutor support?

If you need additional time with a, this can be arranged for you. The cost will depend on the amount of additional time you require.

How will I get work to my tutor?

The front office will accept work for all Tutors in the College. Your own name and your Tutor's name must be clearly marked on the work you are handing in. You will be asked to sign when work is handed over.


We want you to enjoy your studies with South Lanarkshire College. So, if there is anything you are unsure of or if you need help or advice ...... please ask!

E: admissions@slc.ac.uk
T: 01355 270750