Online Course/ Distance Education: Autism Spectrum
Dr. Olga Bogdashina – Ph.D., MA
2 modules – 3 months – 108 hours
About the programme:
The CPD (Continuing Professional Development) web-based programme is offered by distance learning. It is interactive, so it is essential that all the students have a regular access to the computer, Internet connection and a personal e-mail address.
The programme contains lectures (both via the Internet and provided in a written form on the course website), on-line webinars, and discussion for and guided reading. There are regular on-line discussions when the students get an opportunity to meet (on-line) their fellow-students, share experiences, exchange ideas, ask questions, and discuss their work with their tutor/lecturer.
Structure: All study-materials are structured as Modules that are divided into Units. Each Unit includes on-line materials, activities, questions to reflect on, self-assessment tests (allowing the students to monitor their progress and identify ‘weak points’ to be addressed before the end of each unit), on-line discussions.
Learning Strategy – A programme of on-line webinars (once a month) written lectures, discussions, self-assessments, and tutorials, seminars and guided reading: Total hours: 108.
Study time will vary from one student to another, but it is approximated to take about 7-8 hours a week of student time, including reading study materials, tutorials, and working on the assignments. The programme offers flexibility that allows students to study when they have time rather than following rigid timetable. The only structured times are for 3 webinars and deadlines for written assignments.
Assessment: To meet the course outcome students have to provide portfolios at the end of each unit containing a reflective log and written assignments (details are provided at the end of each Unit).
Students are advised to start A Reflective Log on the date they start the course. A reflective log is a professional journal that students keep during the course and is a useful tool to collect relevant material. Keep a notebook (‘a reflective log’) to do tests and activities, write your thoughts on different sections, make notes, ideas for forum discussions, notes of observations, reflections and thoughts on the subjects covered in the module, etc. This reflective log will NOT be assessed.
Qualifications: Successful completion of the course will result in University Certificate: Autism Spectrum. On completion, you may be able to progress further in your studies (Modules 3 & 4) which will lead to Advanced Certificate (Autism Spectrum).