Computing Skills
In order to participate in this course you must have basic IT skills and be confident using a computer for purposes such as word processing, preparing presentations, using video conferencing software (e.g Teams or Zoom), e-mail and searching the Internet.
This course involves using the synchronous online conferencing using Microsoft Teams*. Such software is more technically demanding on the IT infrastructure than many other e-learning tools, so you should be prepared to spend some time at the start of the course getting your PC set up to use this software. For example, you might need to install a browser plug-in; install new hardware, such as a webcam; or adjust the settings on your PC. An IT Helpdesk is available to provide advice if you encounter any technical difficulties.
Please also note that as part of this course you will be required to prepare some slides and give a short online presentation.
Those with limited IT skills may find that some extra time is required for setup at the beginning of the course (IT support is provided free of charge as part of the course).
*This software is free to download.
Computer specifications
This course is delivered online; to participate you will need regular access to the Internet and a computer meeting our recommended Minimum computer specification.
Computer specification queries
If you have queries about your computer facilities, please contact the TALL (Technology-Assisted Lifelong Learning) programme by email: tallithelp@conted.ox.ac.uk or telephone +44 (0)1865 280990.
If you intend to access the course on a public computer, such as in a public library or internet café, we recommend that you contact TALL before applying.
Course platform - Moodle
We use a learning management system called Moodle to host the course including:
- The introduction and learning outcomes: Each unit starts with a summary of the topics to be covered and includes a list of learning outcomes for the unit.
- The topics and content with a range of activities (some individual and some group) to explore the topic in more detail and start planning your own online course.
- The course study: The course discussion forums are open 24 hours per day during the course so you can access these and the course materials anytime. Much of your learning will be done via discussion boards where you will share your work for feedback. You and the other participants will support each other to provide constructive feedback.
- Summary and reflections: Each unit includes a summary providing an overview of the key points and includes a 'reflections' discussion forum to encourage you to reflect on your experiences and what you have learnt so far.
- Further reading: Most units conclude with a list of further reading for those who have time for additional study.
Synchronous tutorials
We use Microsoft Teams for synchronous tutorials, which enables the simultaneous delivery of voice, video and presentation documents.
The only fixed times during the course are these online synchronous tutorials using Microsoft Teams.
Note: these tutorials are at a time which tries to accommodate all the various time zones of the students on the course. The tutor will try to vary the times throughout the course but you may have late or early sessions depending on your time zone.
Later in the course you will have the opportunity to set up and run your own tutorials with other students on the course using this software and this can be done at a time to suit you.
Effective Online Tutoring (online)