Experiences of teaching faculty enrolled in the Open Polytechnic of New Zealand's Certificate in Designing and Facilitating E-learning.

Abstract

In 2008, the Open Polytechnic of New Zealand offered a new programme in e-learning, the Certificate in Designing and Facilitating E-learning (Level 5). The programme consists of three compulsory courses. The courses are vocational in focus and build upon knowledge, involving an introduction to current e-learning theory, practical training in e-learning facilitation, and the creation of an individual e-learning course. The authors are lecturers at the Open Polytechnic, and were among the first students to complete the new qualification. In this working paper they summarise their experiences in completing the Certificate, as well as key lessons they learned while attempting to translate current teaching practices into an online learning environment.