Orienting distance learning students commencing the Bachelor of Construction Management program: designing an online module

Literature has shown that orientation programs for commencing students play a significant role in preparing students for their university life. Usually, universities conduct on-campus orientations to welcome and introduce students to university life – including the academic, social, and recreational aspects of it. However, these do not assist students who commence or continue their studies via distance learning mode. Nowadays, online learning is becoming more and more popular, and is often combined with part-time work. Distance learning (DL) students’ needs differ from those of on-campus students, and the generic orientation programs designed for on-campus students may not address their needs. Furthermore, DL students familiar with traditional face-to-face teaching environments require additional support when they enrol in an online and problem based learning program because they need to adjust their approaches to learning. This paper reports on the design of an Online Orientation Module for the Bachelor of Construction Management (BCM) program in the School of Architecture and Built Environment, University of Newcastle. This degree is offered through problem based – mixed mode delivery. The paper discusses the concept, content, technical design issues, and the operational delivery of the module.