Extramural delivery is an important part of the tertiary system. Learners study mainly away from a campus setting, but not in the workplace.

Learners undertake self-directed learning and are supported by tertiary education organisations (TEOs) which are responsible for the learners’ health and wellbeing support. This gives learners the flexibility to complete their work in their own time, although TEOs can still set timeframes and other expectations.

Professor Jess Vanderlelie, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic at Deakin University, shared insights from her experience of supporting online learners across two universities and looked at improvements in engagement and retention for online learners.

For instance, at La Trobe University, the StudyFlex initiative provides learners with the choice of online or in person study when they enrol. Support services have been designed for equitable access, including extended hours and providing free digital resources.

Jess concluded with a video showcasing Harvard’s online classroom and discussed Deakin University's next steps for supporting online learners.

Watch the full presentation at Learner Success Community of Practice.

Learner Success Community of Practice sessions

The Tertiary Education Commission hosts online Community of Practice sessions in partnership with the tertiary sector. The aim is to connect tertiary education organisations to share knowledge, collaborate, and promote individual, group and organisational development to improve the success of their learners.

To find out about upcoming sessions, please contact 0800 601 301 or customerservice@tec.govt.nz with the subject line [EDUMIS # Learner Success Community of Practice].

To view recordings of previous sessions, visit Learner Success Community of Practice.