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3 Welcome to the London Metropolitan University s Faculty of Business and Law programmes offered in partnership with Western International College (WINC) Online. I encourage you to browse our pages that are designed to provide you descriptions of our business programmes. Applying theory to real-world application is the hallmark of all London Metropolitan University business degrees. Students are challenged to think critically as they analyze real-world business problems. You will find our curriculum focuses on providing a strong grounding in the basic disciplines, at the same time as affording you the flexibility to follow your interests and achieve your personal goals. We are part of a world class university and encourage you to expand your horizons beyond just business.understanding the global economy and the importance of working in an environment that respects the cultural and business differences of a world without borders is a critical skill for business leaders in the twenty-first century. Our programmes are delivered fully online in partnership with WINC Online and this means that you are able to achieve a high quality UK degree without having to incur the time and cost penalties involved in travelling to the UK to do so. I wish you the very best for your career. Dr Wendy Bloisi International Partnerships Manager Faculty of Business and Law London Metropolitan University

4 WESTERN INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE ONLINE Western International College Online (WINC) was established in 2008 and is licensed by the Government of Ras Al Khaimah through the IDO - Free Trade Zone and offers Foundation, Undergraduate and Post Graduate degree programmes in collaboration with its academic partners, globally. Western International College offers degree programmes in a variety of specialist areas such as Engineering, Business and Computing. Students from various academic backgrounds and levels can join Western International College as a means to earn their Foundation, Undergraduate and Post Graduate degrees. Western International College is located in a brand new state-of-the-art campus. The purpose built facility is part of the WINC s commitment to offering the best possible experience for students. All Academic programmes are housed together in this new campus. WINC is part of the KES Group of Institutions which owns and operates Colleges and Universities in the UAE, India and Sri Lanka. WINC Online is the online / distance education wing of WINC, exclusively set up to afford potential students an option of pursuing accredited qualifications without compromising on their work or family schedules. Courses offered through WINC Online are in partnership with accredited institutions or Universities and taught and assessed to the same standards as those offered in traditional mode.

5 T he London Metropolitan University (LMU) prepares students for their future careers. In such a competitive job market, the employability skills gained at LMU ensure that students stand out from the crowd. Many of LMU courses are accredited by professional bodies, ensuring their qualifications have professional currency and can lead to placements, work experience and voluntary opportunities across a wide variety of organisations. While employability is at the core of LMU curriculum, the programmes also help develop personal skills in students making them confident and independent thinkers. LMU courses have received top marks from the UK s Quality Assurance Agency. The following programmes from this University can be read through WINC Online: BA (Hons) Business Administration Master of Business Administration (MBA) with specialisations in Finance, HRM and Marketing As a student of London Metropolitan University, the university wants to ensure that you are well prepared for employment when you graduate, so it provides all the transferable skills you need, along with practical experience in relevant employment fields. University staff are passionate about their subjects and work hard to help students fulfill their potential and succeed in their studies. They provide plenty of contact time in a supportive and friendly environment. Located in the heart of one of the world s most exciting cities in vibrant areas such as the East End, City of London and leafy north London, London Met is proud of its multi-ethnic, international and socially diverse community. BEng(Hons) in Sotware Engineering(top up) MSc in Information Technology

6 The partnership between the London Metropolitan University and WINC Online brings together a unique combination of resources and capabilities. The London Metropolitan University is responsible for the academic quality of our programmes and it awards the degrees. The programmes that are offered originate in London Metropolitan University s Faculty of Business and Law. WINC Online, makes the University s programmes available online, providing the e-learning environment and personal student support. Both partners are renowned for quality, innovation and continuous improvement in online teaching and learning.

7 Welcome to the Online BA(Hons) Business Administration offerd in partnership with Western International College (WINC) The degree is offered fully online and prepares students to solve the business problems of today and tomorrow. The programme comprises modules which provide an overview of various functional areas of business while allowing students to choose a specific pathway in the final year.you graduate with exceptional business expertise AND the confidence to forge a successful business career. David Trodden, Course leader, BA(Hons) Business Administration London Metropolitan University

8 The BA (Hons) Business Administration (BBA) course will develop students intellectual and practical skills and will promote the development of students ability to analyse, synthesise and evaluate business principles in a wide range of appropriate contexts. The main aim of the BBA course is to provide a contemporary and dynamic programme of study which gives students knowledge and understanding of fundamental subjects and prepares them for a wide range of careers in business. A central feature of this course is the development of students lifelong learning skills including self-evaluation and reflection with the aim of placing students in the best position to make informed decisions about their future professional career. Course Details The course will provide an integrated business curriculum to enable students to explore and examine key concepts and principles and link the multidisciplinary subjects of business coherently and in the context of the real business world. By doing this, it is specifically intended to engage the students fully in their studies, increase their motivation and raise their aspirations to be successful throughout their course and in the future. A feature of the BBA course at Level 6 is to offer three distinct pathways - Marketing, International Business and Finance in order to appeal to the widest possible market and allow for suitable progression from various Level 4 and 5 equivalent qualifications, for example, the Edexcel or ATHE Higher National Diploma in Business. Year 1 Level 4: Certificate in Business Administration Introduction to Information and Accounting International Business Environment International Challenges for Business Managing People Introduction to Sales and Marketing Introduction to Finance Year 2 Level 5: Diploma in Business Administration Decision Making in Business Leadership and Entrepreneurial Innovation Sales and Marketing Global Marketing Analysing Investments The Global Economy Year 3 Level 6: BA (Hons) Business Administration Level 6 Common Core Modules Strategic Management Management Investigation Project Specialisation (International Business Pathway) International Businesses International Finance International Economic Issues Forecasting for Business Managing Projects Specialisation (Finance Pathway) Global Finance Economics for Finance Finance Instruments Financial Engineering Managing Projects Specialisation (Marketing Pathway) Planning and Controlling Marketing Marketing for Services Advertising and Sales Global Marketing 2 Managing Projects

9 Features Level 4 aims to provide a firm foundation to support the more advanced studies; this first level introduces knowledge in approaches and principles found across the disciplines of Business Administration, and it starts to develop in students skills of critical analysis and self- reflection. Level 5 aims to deepen the student s specialist knowledge in each of the main subjects including Marketing, Finance and International Business. At this level, students will learn about the decision making process of business organisations and the social, cultural and ethical environment in which they operate. The aim is to develop in students intellectual skills such as understanding, problem solving and to promote the students ability to analyse, synthesise and evaluate critically those business decisions from a wide context. Level 6 aims to challenge students intellectually and promote independent learning through an individual research project. Students will be given an opportunity to explore wider and more advanced and specialist subjects through specific pathways ı namely International Business pathway, Marketing pathway, and Finance pathway. The aim is to allow students to develop a wider perspective of the BBA subjects and to enhance the student s ability to view the wider employability prospects and opportunities of the degree. Careers A central aim of the course is to prepare students for a career in business (involving managerial level work) and to enhance life-long learning skills. The course will develop knowledge, skills and competences for individuals to develop their careers in the modern business world, or to engage with further study in the area of business and management. In particular, students will get the opportunity to engage with employers through a variety of mechanisms in core modules at levels 4, 5 and 6, including curricular and co-curricular activities taking place throughout the course. Most modules contain explicit statements concerning the practice and assessment of students reflective skills both individually and in groups. A wide range of the course modules also assess the student reflective practice through learning journals or logs contributing to personal development planning and career management. In this way, students will be encouraged to develop specific skills increasing their employability prospects by the end of the course. Entry Requirements Normally three passes in GCSEs or equivalent at Grade C or above including English Language and where required Maths; and Two GCE A level or Vocational A level passes; or, Three GCE A level or Vocational A level passes; or, Five passes in the Scottish Certificate of Education, of which two are at Higher grade or passes in four subjects all of which are at Higher grade; or, A pass in an Access course recognised by QAA and designed to provide a preparation for higher education; or, A pass in a Foundation course in art and design validated by Edexcel; or, The award of the Diploma of the International Baccalaureate; or, A pass of 70% in the European Baccalaureate; or, The Irish Leaving Certificate with passes at grade C or above in five subjects; or, The award of an Edexcel National Diploma or Certificate, or, The successful completion of the Diploma with 80 or more UCAS points or. An International equivalent as confirmed by the NARIC register / London Metropolitan University s entry requirements for applicants from a specific country.these could be Indian Class 12 examinations, Pkistani Class 12 examinations etc In addition, students are also required to demonstrate English language proficiency by achieving satisfactory scores on internationally recognized English language tests like the IELTS / TOEFL Direct Entry Students with prior academic or work-based qualifications may be exempt from part of the course but will be considered on the basis of authenticated and certificated documentary evidence. Applicants who have successfully completed 2 years of study at a University will be considered for direct entry with advanced standing into level 6. Students with Level 5 qualifications (for example Higher National Diploma) from approved awarding bodies will be considered for transfer to the final stage of the BA and earn their degree in one year. Decisions for admissions will be based on your overall suitability for the course as well as whether you meet the minimum entry requirements equivalent to level 3 qualifications for Year 1. Other equivalent qualifications may be accepted for entry to this course, please online@ wincedu.net for further information.

10 I am delighted to welcome you to our new, challenging and inspirational MBA programmes designed for the next generation of business professionals. The MBA with specialisms in Finance, Marketing and Human Resources Management is committed to stimulate your thinking and give you the opportunity to learn how to manage and lead in a turbulent business environment. The WINC Online MBA Faculty Team, through their long-standing experience in teaching and business practice, will help you acquire the theoretical and practical knowledge to tackle real-life business issues efficiently and effectively in order to gain competitive advantage for your organization wherever you are based. We will equip you with the toolkit to become a multi-functional leader, enable you to analyse the market and develop innovative strategies to meet business challenges. Acquiring new capabilities and building on your experience and expertise, you will be able to redefine your career goals and shape your future. Dr Hazel Messenger MBA Course Leader London Metropolitan University

11 The London Metropolitan University s MBA degree is an internationally recognized business degree and a valuable qualification for those aiming to become global business leaders. It is academic in nature, yet provides practical preparation for individuals in business and management. The programme is designed to prepare participants in the major functional areas of today s competitive business world. The pace of the programme is rigorous and participants are offered opportunities to study modern organisations. The programme aims to provide participants with the skills necessary to guide their decisions as corporate executives in a dynamic, global environment. Course Details This course is designed for graduates who wish to acquire a strong background in business and professional development on an intensive 12-month course, but may not possess a degree in a businessrelated subject or have experience in business and management. The course provides training in the key business functions such as accounting, marketing, human resources and business strategy and develops key business skills such as business report-writing and management and leadership. The course allows for students to develop functional expertise across chosen subject areas of Finance, Marketing or Human Resource Management through the choice of appropriate modules. The course provides simulated work experience through the professional development modules and gives students the opportunity to apply for placements in their own country or elsewhere. The programme welcomes students from a broad range of backgrounds who wish to develop successful business careers in increasingly globalised and competitive markets. Specialisation HRM Specialisation Marketing Specialisation Finance Specialisation Master of Business Administration: Required Credits: 180 Compulsory Core Modules The Competition and the Business Environment Managing Accounting and Finance Marketing Communications Organisational Behaviour Business and Strategy Marketing Strategy Business Analysis Project MBA Specialisation Pathways Finance Pathway Markets and Financial Management Finance for Corporations HRM Pathway Strategy for and International HRM Resourcing and Talent Management Marketing Pathway International Marketing International Advertising and Sales Features The MBA is an experiential orientated programme. Students learning is initiated and directed through formal contact time with the teaching team in e-lectures and e-seminars. The MBA students develop their learning through group activities organised in class and outside formal teaching time. As mature individuals they are expected to develop their competences through reading, writing, problemsolving and other tasks outside class. Students develop their understanding and show their ability to apply knowledge and analyses to various business contexts through the use of case studies, business scenarios, presentations and problem-based learning

12 exercises. Critical thinking is developed throughout the course. E-lectures and e-seminars are important activities that develop cognitive skills. E-lectures provide students with tools of analysis, outline methods of evaluation and give clear guidance on how best students can extend and apply their learning independently. Module teaching on the MBA is structured so that students first acquire basic knowledge of a topic, usually in a lecture, and then apply and evaluate techniques in a variety of problems and business scenarios in e-seminars and outside formal e-lectures. E-Seminars are student-centered and encourage student action. They give students the Opportunity to apply their understanding in various business contexts and to test out their ideas. Seminar and small-group learning activities typically require students to carry out independent work prior to formal class and often to work co-operatively in groups. Practical skills are developed through the use of student presentations in e-seminars and through independent activities undertaken by students who reflect on, develop and present work for informal and formal assessment by the tutor. Initiative and leadership skills are developed progressively through the course and personal development is strongly supported, especially in the year-long modules Leadership and Personal Development and Management Skills. All modules use primarily a virtual learning environment platform. Module lecture and case study material, course handbooks, problem sets and other material are made available to the students. Other resources including links to web resources, on-line learning games and test questions and feedback will be available online. This programme is designed to develop senior management and leadership competences in individuals, in order for them to be effective in their respective organisational roles. In particular, the programme is designed to enable students to develop effective, practical management expertise whilst engaging with postgraduate study skills. It therefore addresses the needs of practicing or aspiring senior managers who require formal development of management and leadership skills The course will enable students to undertake intensive and advanced study of key business functions, business strategy, management and leadership and the external environment in which business operates. Students will acquire professional skills by applying business analysis to a range of problems. The course will develop professionalism and employability in all its students through professional development modules. Taking the course will open up a wide range of career opportunities and graduates should aim to find management roles in international companies, public sector organisations or the voluntary sector. The course will enable students to undertake intensive and advanced study of key business functions, business strategy, management and leadership and the external environment in which business operates. Students will acquire professional skills by applying business analysis to a range of problems. The course will develop professionalism and employability in all its students through professional development modules. Taking the course will open up a wide range of career opportunities and graduates should aim to find management roles in international companies, public sector organisations or the voluntary sector. Careers This programme is designed to develop senior management and leadership competences in individuals, in order for them to be effective in their respective organisational roles. In particular, the programme is designed to enable students to develop effective, practical management expertise whilst engaging with postgraduate study skills. It therefore addresses the needs of practicing or aspiring senior managers who require formal development of management and leadership skills Entry requirements A second class honours degree in any subject, or students holding a qualification recognised as graduate equivalent by the University, plus 2 years management experience, at an appropriate level. Students with Level 7 qualifications (for example Post-graduate Diploma) from approved awarding bodies will be considered for transfer to the final stage of the MBA / advanced standing and earn their degree in as little as six months. Candidates without a first degree can be admitted to the programme provided they have substantial managerial experience, at an appropriate level and can demonstrate ability to succeed on the programme. Other equivalent qualifications may be accepted for entry to this course, please online@wincedu.net for further information

13 Welcome to the WINC Online programmes offered in partnership with London Metropolitan University s School of Computing within the Faculty of Life Sciences and Computing. We are excited about this partnership with WINC Online to offer our BEng(top up) degree in Software Engineering and the MSc in IT using synchronous e-learning technologies. We at the School are united by a common desire to make the global community a better place, by contributing effectively to the conceptualization, design and implementation of effective and efficient technological solutions to real-world problems. We are dedicated to providing an exceptional student experience in preparing global citizens as productive contributors to the global, technology-driven world. If you are a prospective student, consider joining the next generation of innovative contributors in the digital world and digital workplace. We have students from a remarkably large number of countries (and this number is growing quickly). Our rich set of computing programmes bridge the disconnect between theory and practice in the ever-changing computing disciplines, and impart technical, organizational and cross-cutting domain knowledge and skills. Our programmes provide knowledge and skills across the entire range of topics in the industry including computer networking, software development, software engineering, database technologies, security, business intelligence, ethics and law, IT governance and strategy, Web development, and information assurance. Our programmes are designed to prepare students for careers in many fields while laying the foundation for continuing education and growth in the field. Students who have completed our programmes can pursue career goals in industry, government, education, research, etc. I am pleased that you are interested in our programmes and I look forward to welcoming you as a student on one of these. Dr Vincent Hargy Associate Dean Faculty of Life Sciences and Computing London Metropolitan University

14 This internationally recognised qualification gives those with a DipHE/HND in a computing-based subject or equivalent a chance to top up to a degree. Giving you key skills in building software with the latest theoretical understanding, complete with full coverage of the ISTQB Foundation Certificate in Software Testing syllabus, this career-focused course is designed to help you succeed in the workplace. Course overview and entry requirements Career opportunities This software engineering course equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary for employment in key areas of business and society. Key areas for example are finance, industrial processes, defence and health where different kinds of software-based systems are used. Course Details The general aim of the course is to provide you with advanced theoretical and practical knowledge and skills to enable software development and maintenance with the most up-to-date methods of software technology. Entry requirements In addition to the University s standard entry requirements you should have: A minimum of 240 credits from a relevant Higher National Diploma (HND), a Foundation Degree (FdSc) or an Association of Computer Professionals (ACP) Advanced Diploma in Computer Science. As this is a level 6 course, the University s standard advanced-entry requirements fo English language also apply, which is IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with minimum 5.5 in each component. Course structure and assessment Course structure One level, the third year of the BEng degree, 120 credits. Year 1 topics include: Project Advanced Software Engineering Principles and Techniques Application development One of these optional topics which may include: Advanced Database Systems Development Enterprise Systems Modelling and Integration Distributed and Internet Systems Ecommerce and Ebusiness Formal Specification and Software Architecture Network and Cloud SecurityCareer opportunities

15 Course Details A career-focused, up-to-date exploration of information technology, training you in the fundamentals and ne development of IT systems. It can also prepare you for industry-recognised Oracle Professional Certification. The course aims to develop a good understanding and knowledge of current and emerging IT and computer technologies. The course aims to equip students with a combination of relevant technical skills and client-facing awareness in preparation for, or in enhancement of, a career within the IT industry. The distance learning delivery mode offers significant flexibility whereby all teaching and learning materials are provided in the most advanced Virtual Learning Environment. Students can obtain an engaging and rewarding study experience with regular guidance, on-going support and timely feedback throughout their course from experienced academic tutors A variety of online facilities are available for interaction between both students and tutors, as well as among students. The course is specifically designed for career enhancement. It aims to equip students with a wide range of necessary knowledge and skills highly valued by employers and IT industry. These include mobile computing, IT security management, advanced databases and software project management. Stage 2 topics include: Students need to complete six 20 credit taught modules Database Systems with Professional Certification Mobile Applications Design and Development IT Security Management Software Project Management Communication Technologies for IT Research and Development Skills Stage 3 topics include: Students need to take the 60 credit MSc project Assessment All assessments are completed via staged coursework with a built-in oral presentation/viva where appropriate using teleconference facility. Career opportunities Successful completion of this course offers wideranging career opportunities in the IT industry in either private or public sectors. Graduates will be equipped to work in a variety of areas such as database administration, project management, mobile and web development, business or systems analysis, IT consultancy, support services, product management and training. Entry requirements Applicants should normally have at least : A lower second-class honours degree in a computing-related subject, or a Pre-Masters in Computing and Technology. Graduates without a computing degree, will need evidence of considerable computer-based experience or a substantial element of computer studies within a different qualification. International students are expected to meet the University s English qualification requirements. Course structure and assessment Course structure Stage 1 topics include: Students will attend an online Induction session

16 Online Campus By studying towards your online program you will be offered a state of the art learning environment, the freedom to participate in classes whenever and wherever you choose, and the opportunity to earn the highly respected degree you need to advance your career. But studying for your degree online may also raise some questions and concerns. It s a new and unknown experience, so it s natural to be uncertain about what to expect and how the process will unfold. While your WINC team will walk you through the entire process and will be there to support you every step of the way from first contact to graduation, we also offer the following brief highlights as an introduction to the Online Experience. Required Technology Students will need a reliable internet service provider with at least a 256 Kbps connection speed (preferable a 1 Mbps connection speed), a headphone with mike and an account that supports attachments. All students will be required to go through a comprehensive induction program that will enable them to get comfortable with the online mode of study. Technical help for all software used will be available 24/7 on-line and by telephone (at fixed hours). Students will also need access to standard word processing, presentation and spreadsheet software for assignments. Course Delivery Unlike most online degree programs, where most interaction between teachers and students happens asynchronously, the WINC OL delivery system allows regular contact sessions in synchronous mode between the student and teacher. This happens during the weekly lecture and tutorial session which is scheduled once every week (just like in a traditional college / University) and conducted via a sophisticated video and audio conferencing system. However, unlike traditional mode, a student can attend the class from anywhere in the world as long as he/ she has access to a computer with internet access! These sessions are conducted at pre-scheduled times to the students. And what s more - Students who cannot attend these sessions can retrieve these lectures as they will be recorded. In addition to this, students can talk one on one to the faculty members during their scheduled office hours to resolve doubts/ queries.

17 Learning Facilities and Resources Most courses will combine assigned readings from textbooks and other materials, online exercises, problems, or activities put together by the instructor, interactive discussions on cases, situations, or questions posed by the instructor, and assigned group or individual projects or papers. In addition to the live lecture delivery mentioned above all courses are supported using Moodle, an integrated course management- system. Students have access to these resources through the term and can download and print them as needed. In a normal week, students will be expected to complete the assigned readings from the text book and other resources, go over the lecture notes/ Audio lectures provided, participate in the asynchronous discussion boards, and attend the virtual lectures and tutorial sessions. Assessment Assessments are designed to reflect and develop the skills leaders use in their professional environment, so you will be assessed on written assignments, presentations, reflective portfolios and personal development plans. Homework assignments are posted on the Assignment Manager inside Moodle. Written assignments are submitted online through Moodle; when they are due is at the discretion of the instructor. Additional learning materials are available in the course resource area, such as PowerPoint slides, lecture notes, case examples, demonstrations, practice exams, and relevant articles or papers. Highlights of Online Learning Your classes will take place in an online environment. You can log in at any time at your convenience on to the LMS. Once online, you ll communicate with your instructors and fellow students, read assigned texts, access digital materials, post assignments and comment on other students assignments. While you re required to log in at least two separate days each week, you will, of course, benefit greatly from regular and more frequent attendance. In addition, Live, interactive lectures are scheduled just as in a traditional programme and these times and schedules are made available at the start of each semester Your online course experience will take place on an advanced learning management system designed to facilitate the optimal learning experience for students. In addition to the educational platform you ll utilize to communicate with faculty and fellow students, you ll also have access to e-textbooks offering you the capability to highlight, annotate, create bookmarks, search, download and self-assess. Similar to a campus classroom, the online experience will include extensive participation and interaction with faculty and fellow students. You ll also use the online forum to communicate with advisers, teaching assistants and instructional specialists. You can take one/ two modules at a time, each lasting 6/12 weeks. This advanced learning method designed for adults allows you to concentrate your entire focus on one subject area before moving onto the next, while also allowing you to earn your degree in an accelerated time frame. The MBA/BA (Hons) degree you earn will hold the same value, acceptance and credibility as any equivalent degree earned in a traditional campus environment.

18 FAQ s QUESTION 1 : Are the degrees / qualifications the same as those offered on campus? ANSWER : Yes, the standards are equivalent. All are awards of the respective Universities. When you complete your MBA your diploma and university transcript will say Master of Business Administration, just like students who earn the MBA on campus. QUESTION 2 : Who are the faculty teaching on the online programmes? ANSWER : Online courses are developed and taught by qualified faculty. All of the faculty members are approved by the University before teaching on the programme. Every faculty member holds at least a Master s MBA or above in a field related to the subject he/ she teaches.most faculty also have significant teaching and industry experience. QUESTION 3 : Are the courses self-paced? ANSWER : No, the online courses are not self-paced. Each course begins on a fixed day at the start of a semester and ends on the last day of a semester. Most modules are normally spread over 8/10 weeks(may vary in some cases). Students will have a course schedule with assignments due throughout the term on specified dates. However, students do have flexibility each week in deciding when they access the online material; in addition there are live class sessions that meet at set times online. QUESTION 4 : Will I need to travel abroad to complete my degree? ANSWER : No. Students will not be required to leave their home countries. They can complete their degrees staying at home. QUESTION 5 : What is it like to take an online class? ANSWER : In a typical online course, the instructor will have an online syllabus that outlines the assignments and course activities on a weekly schedule. Most courses will combine assigned readings from textbooks and other materials, online exercises, problems, or activities put together by the instructor, interactive discussions on cases, situations, or questions posed by the instructor, and assigned group or individual projects or papers. In a normal week, students will be expected to attend the live lectures and tutorials, complete the assigned readings from the text book and other resources, go over the lecture notes, live interactive audio meetings provided and participate in the asynchronous discussion boards. In certain weeks assignments may be due. These have to be turned in on time to avoid penalty. QUESTION 6 : How can there be discussions in an online environment? ANSWER : Many students are initially skeptical about whether there can be meaningful online discussions of cases and issues. In fact, most evidence shows that there is more, not less, discussion in online courses than in traditional classroom courses. Discussions are held using synchronous chat rooms. Chat rooms require students to be online at the same time; however, a faculty might schedule several times for chat so that all students can participate. Chat rooms can also be used by teams of students for working on group projects. Discussions online rely on asynchronous threaded discussions, where students post comments or questions in response to the instructor and other students. Students can read and post comments any

19 time during the day. The instructor will monitor class discussions and interact as discussions progress. QUESTION questions? 7 :How can I ask the faculty ANSWER : Students can meet with faculty members and ask questions during assigned office hours through live interactive audio meetings. Students can use to communicate directly with the faculty, who will usually respond within a day or so. QUESTION 8 : Will students be able to access the university library? ANSWER : Students have access to the University electronic library via the internet, including a large database of research engines and full-text materials. Students will receive an ID number that will allow access to these materials. Students who can come to a Support College campus will have full access to all library materials and facilities. QUESTION 9 : What computer hardware and software do I need? ANSWER : Students will need access to a reliable Internet service provider with at least a 256 Kbps connection speed (preferable a 1 Mbps connection speed), a headphones with mike and an account that supports attachments. All students will be required to go through a comprehensive induction programme that will enable them to get comfortable with the online mode of study. Technical help for the synchronous web conferencing technology used to deliver live classes as well as the Moodle platform will be available 24/7 on-line and by telephone (at fixed times). QUESTION 10 :Where can I take the final exams? ANSWER : A list of approved proctor sites will be made available to the students. Some of the proctor sites where exams can be taken include WINC OL support colleges and the British Council offices in approved locations. QUESTION 11 : What help is available to me during my study and how can I avail of it? ANSWER : Each student will be assigned an Advisor, who will invariably be a faculty member teaching during the semester. The Advisor will be the first point of contact for the student for issues relating to a module or the programme as a whole. Students can also avail pastoral and non academic counseling counsel from a counselor who is available on chat twice a week. The counselor can also be approached via on other days. Further, there is a helpdesk where the students can log their complaints or seek assistance. Issues relating to exams, dropping a course, transcripts, time tables etc may be addressed to registrar@theonlinecampus.co Technical questions can be ed to helpdesk@theonlinecampus.co Enquiries requesting pastoral counseling support can be ed to counsellor@ theonlinecampus.co Enquiries relating to fees and other financial issues can be ed to admin@theonlinecampus.co QUESTION 12 : How can I get started? ANSWER : Once you have decided on your programme of study, students may download the application form from www. theonlinecampus.co. After applying online, send the following scanned documents to admissions@onlinecampus.com Attested copies of the qualifying degree. At least one letter of reference 3 passport size photos Passport copy, copies of work permit/labour card for identification

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21 Contact Western International College Opp. Higher College Of Technology Mens College Al Hudaiba - Bareraat P.O.Box: 16038, Ras Al Khaimah, U.A.E Tel: , Fax: South Asia Office Western College No.282/1, High Level Road, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka info@theonlinecampus.co Tel: +94 (0) / +94 (0) info@theonlinecampus.co