Mathematics support for 1st year engineering students: an operational model for students studying at a distance

Students studying in the distance mode have little opportunity to access standard learning support programs available to on campus students. This project aims to further design, develop, trial and evaluate a support program in mathematics for students studying at a distance. The design of the program is based upon existing materials currently used by internal students (diagnostic tests, modularised written material in booklet form, covering relevant mathematics topics, mastery tests). The major initial task is to provide a delivery system that will give opportunities for all students to interact with campus staff on the program and secure timely and appropriate feedback on their progress. It is proposed that the delivery system function around specific computing and communication technologies - teleconferencing, computer conferencing, and the specifically designed courseware package.