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Open Polytechnic Annual Report highlights successful year

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 09:51:41 +1200

World class student achievement levels for distance learning and helping the Government to achieve Better Public Service targets are highlights of the Open Polytechnic’s 2012 Annual Report tabled in Parliament recently.

The Open Polytechnic is New Zealand’s specialist provider of flexible distance learning services, and each year enrols around 35,000 mainly adult learners from around the country who want to get ahead in their current career, or upskill for a new career.

The institution returned a strong financial result in 2012, reporting a surplus of $4.3 million, which is a consolidated surplus over revenue of 7%.

Council Chairperson, Graeme Hall says the educational performance results of the Open Polytechnic have cemented the organisation’s standing as a world leader in distance learning.

Successful course completions for Open Polytechnic students in 2012 were 80%, and qualification completions reached 78%.

“The Open Polytechnic is dedicated to generating successful outcomes for our students so they can reach their aspirational goals in their professional and personal lives”, says Mr Hall.

“The successful course and qualification completion results our students have achieved in 2012 are now exceeding the average of the educational performance results of face-to-face Institute of Technology and Polytechnic providers in New Zealand, which is a fantastic result for time-poor adults fitting their studies in around work and family commitments.”

New initiatives introduced in 2012 focus on helping the Government achieve several of its Better Public Services targets.

A ‘NCEA Top Up’ initiative is helping young people who left school before completing all of the credits towards their NCEA qualification a chance to complete their target qualification fee free. As part of its boosting skills and employment goals, the Government is aiming to increase the number of 18 year-olds with a NCEA Level 2 or equivalent qualification to 85% by 2017.

“We saw our NCEA initiative as a way of enabling young people to finish their qualification by distance learning without having to give up work, or limit the hours they are available to work. Making it fee free also removed the financial burden that many young people face in accessing education after they have left school”, says Open Polytechnic Chief Executive Dr Caroline Seelig.

Almost 80% of students currently participating in the Open Polytechnic’s NCEA Top Up initiative are under 25, and their ability to complete NCEA supports their transition to tertiary education and supports the Government’s goal that 55% of 25-34 year olds hold a Level 4 qualification or above in 2017.

A new initiative delivered in partnership with Corrections is expected to contribute to the Better Public Service target of reducing criminal re-offending by providing more support for prisoners undertaking learning, and by expanding education services for community-based offenders. Research has shown that education and employment can reduce the likelihood of re-offending.

Other highlights detailed in the 2012 Annual Report for the institution include the launch of a new degree, the Bachelor of Social Work, an increase in student satisfaction levels with overall student satisfaction recorded at 94%, and 96% saying their employers would consider their Open Polytechnic qualification valuable.

The 2012 Open Polytechnic Annual Report is available to view online at: www.openpolytechnic.ac.nz/about-us/corporate-publications

Open Polytechnic celebrates Auckland graduation

Tue, 28 May 2013 13:49:25 +1200

The Open Polytechnic is proud to be celebrating student success this week at its Auckland graduation ceremony (28 May).

The nation’s specialist provider of distance learning, the Open Polytechnic holds ceremonies in Wellington, Christchurch and Auckland each year.

Held at the ASB Theatre, Aotea Centre, the Auckland graduation ceremony will see over 180 graduates from all over the upper North Island receiving their diploma and degrees in early childhood education, business, engineering technology, information management, communications, applied science, arts and health.

“Our students have shown considerable self-motivation and determination to get to this point, many having to juggle their study around full time work, family and other commitments. It will be a pleasure to be a part of recognising this dedication and commitment at our graduation ceremonies,” says Dr Caroline Seelig, Open Polytechnic Chief Executive.

Author, researcher, publisher and TV-presenter, Gordon Dryden, will be the guest speaker at the ceremony.

The Auckland graduation ceremony will be live web streamed from the Open Polytechnic website from 4.30pm on 28 May at: http://openpolytechnic.ac.nz/study-with-us/graduation/graduation-live-stream/.

Nationwide, over 1100 students will receive their diplomas and degrees from the Open Polytechnic this graduating year.

Yoobee School of Design opens Degree Pathway in partnership with Open Polytechnic of New Zealand

Fri, 10 May 2013 14:04:25 +1200

The Open Polytechnic New Zealand and Yoobee School of Design have signed an agreement that enables students to pathway from their Yoobee diplomas into a Bachelor of Applied Science degree (BAppSci) with just one further year of study.

The Degree Pathway programme stems from a unique public-private sector partnership between Yoobee and Open Polytechnic that is expected to broaden the market of domestic and international students for both institutions. It features a blended on-site/online learning model, with students studying at Auckland’s City Road campus under Yoobee tutors, while leveraging Open Polytechnic’s online learning resources.

“We recognise that employers are placing increasing value on a Bachelor degree qualification,” says Ruth Cooper, General Manager, Education at Yoobee. “The Degree Pathway provides Yoobee students an opportunity to achieve additional academic credentials without having to start over elsewhere. They can invest two years to achieve practical skills through our diplomas and later extend to a Bachelor’s degree while remaining in the familiar Yoobee campus environment.”

The two organisations have also launched an internship programme this year that sent six Yoobee graduates to build media content and apps at Open Polytechnic in Lower Hutt, where they are assisting in the development of next generation learning experiences. The interns are putting their skills in graphic design and web development to use, and simultaneously working towards their Bachelor of Applied Science degrees

“The Yoobee graduate interns have proven to be highly capable with practical and sought-after design and technology skills,” said Dr Raymond Young, the Head of Social Sciences at Open Polytechnic. “Through the Degree Pathway, Yoobee students have access to an Open Polytechnic curriculum that will round out their academic background and develop skills in critical thinking, statistical analysis, research methods and project management.”

The Degree Pathway programme is subject to New Zealand Qualifications Authority site approval. To be eligible for admission, applicants must have completed the Diploma of Computer Graphic Design (Level 6) as well as a diploma in interactive design, digital media or web development – all with a minimum B grade. Yoobee intends to extend the Open Polytechnic Degree Pathway programme to Wellington and Christchurch campuses in the future.

Open Polytechnic Legal Executive students awarded top marks

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 10:20:43 +1300

Open Polytechnic students have claimed four of the six top places in the New Zealand Law Society’s (NZLS) 2012 Legal Executive Diploma examinations.

Top places were achieved by Maritsa Cousins - Introduction to Law Office Practice exam, Lyn McCarthy – Estates Law and Practice exam, Rachel Barr - jointly with two others from different institutions – Estates Law and Practice exam and Wendy Goodbrand – Litigation Law and Practice exam.

Open Polytechnic student Maritsa Cousins, who received the top national mark for the Introduction to Law Office Practice exam, also won the prize for Overall Highest Achiever in the NZLS Executive Diploma at the Open Polytechnic awarding her $500 worth of Thomson Reuters products. Maritsa says learning of her achievements came as a ‘lovely surprise’.

“I felt that I had achieved an overall good result, and was delighted with my mark in the Law Office Practise exam, but it never crossed my mind that I could be considered for an Overall Highest Achiever award. I am very thankful.”

Open Polytechnic Legal Executive Programme Leader, Cedric Hunt, says he was delighted to learn of the successes of Open Polytechnic students in last year’s exams.

“Our congratulations to all students who worked so hard during the year towards completing this much sought after qualification. It is gratifying to see such effort rewarded and the particularly commendable achievements of these students.”

All four winning Open Polytechnic students will receive a $150 prize from the New Zealand Law Society for their efforts. A further two students (Joanne Firman and Lyn McCathy) have received high achiever prizes from the Open Polytechnic and sponsored by Thomson Reuters for their exam marks.

Each year students from seven different tertiary providers around the country sit one or more of the six examinations that make up the NZLS Executive Diploma.

Offenders offered more opportunities to learn

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 16:12:03 +1300

Corrections and the Open Polytechnic have today launched a partnership which will contribute to reducing re-offending by providing more support for prisoners undertaking learning, and by expanding education services for community-based offenders.

The two parties have agreed to work together to enroll up to 1000 eligible prisoners and community-based offenders per year in a learning programme called ‘Get Ahead’, which will teach them important life skills.

Corrections’ General Manager Service Development, Jo Field says that research shows education and employment can reduce the likelihood of re-offending.

“Successful completion of rehabilitation programmes and gaining employment are linked with lower recidivism. We are committed to reducing re-offending by 25% by 2017 and in order to do this we need to increase the level of literacy, education and employment training available to offenders.

“This programme will contribute to the goal of having 2,000 prisoners per year complete self-directed study and 6,000 community-based offenders receive education and training support leading to stable employment.”

The Get Ahead programme is made up of nine courses split into three steps which will take 24, 16 and 4 weeks to complete respectively. Through 6-8 hours of self-directed study and a two hour coaching session weekly, enrolled offenders will work towards five qualifications.

Open Polytechnic Chief Executive, Dr Caroline Seelig, says the flexibility of being able to use Open Polytechnic distance learning resources, in a mixed mode setting that suits Corrections’ varied environments, provides an innovative solution to upskilling offenders.

“Our programme blends life, work, literacy and numeracy skills and we believe it is very well suited to helping offenders achieve better outcomes when they are ready to re-enter the workforce,” says Dr Seelig.

To be eligible to enrol, offenders must: be 18 years or older and a NZ citizen or permanent resident, have at least 26 weeks left on their sentence, and not have obtained NCEA level 2 or higher or be in school. They must also be motivated to complete the programme and have the ability to progress towards a level 3 qualification.

The country-wide programme implementation will be rolled out in three stages, with the first cohort beginning this month. The second and third cohorts will start in April and June 2013 respectively.

Invitation for Expressions of Interest: New Open Polytechnic Council Member

Tue, 12 Feb 2013 09:38:38 +1300

EOI - Council Governance Positions

The Open Polytechnic is New Zealand’s specialist distance education provider and one of the largest polytechnics in the country. Providing vocational tertiary education at certificate to diploma and degree level, the Open Polytechnic is a major educator of New Zealand’s workforce, with a nationwide student constituency. The organisation is currently progressing through substantial change to better respond to employment market requirements and capitalise on new technology and service innovations that will benefit students and staff in a 21^st Century online learning environment.

The Council seek to establish a pool of prospective Council candidates keen to undertake a governance role, to enable Council to fill vacancies when they fall due or on the occasion of unplanned resignations. The Open Polytechnic currently has two vacancies.

The Open Polytechnic is a Crown-owned entity governed by a Council of eight. Council meets approximately 10 times per annum for half a day. This is usually preceded by a three hour evening workshop. The organisation has approximately 41,000 students, 5,700 EFTS (equivalent full time students), 420 staff, and $60m turnover.

Requests of interest are invited from those with a passion for learning and teaching, the dedication to lead the organisation to achieve strategic goals, and the competencies needed to add value to governance and the organisation’s strategic direction. The objective is a step change in capability, service provision, and performance.

The competencies sought include one or more of the following; experience and skills in corporate management, governance, strategy formulation and leadership, , teaching and learning, legal and financial, commercialisation of technology based services, excellent customer service, employment and workforce development, Tikanga Māori and/or working with a Māori organisation, and diversified and international income development.

Council members are required to travel to the Wellington region for their Council duties approximately 9-12 times a year. All travel costs are paid. Council members receive $16,000 per annum. Further information about the Open Polytechnic can be found at its website www.openpolytechnic.ac.nz.

We would welcome a two-page resume/CV detailing your case for why you would be an ideal Council member.

Applications close 4 March 2013.

Please address applications to:

Leanne Mackie

Council Secretary

Open Polytechnic

Private Bag 31914

Wellington

Or email: leanne.mackie@openpolytechnic.ac.nz

Or if you require further information contact:

Graeme Hall, Council Chair

Email: graeme@rutherfordsloan.co.nz.

Learners to benefit from collaborative approach to vocational education

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 13:31:51 +1300

Maximising learning opportunities and reducing barriers to success are key objectives in a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between The Skills Organisation and the Open Polytechnic.

The two organisations have been working together since 1992, with the relationship being further consolidated when The Skills Organisation assumed coverage of the public sector - who already had a strategic working relationship with Open Polytechnic.

The MOU will focus on the existing strengths and collaborative activities of the two organisations. One area of focus will be the development of pathways to higher-level qualifications, including the development by Open Polytechnic of business degree majors in areas of relevance for The Skills Organisation. Another focus is the further expansion of training provision – where the organisations will explore ways Open Polytechnic might enhance its support for The Skills Organisation in public sector and wider areas of training provision.

Open Polytechnic Chief Executive Caroline Seelig said her organisation is looking to broaden and deepen its relationships with ITO partners.

“We’re focusing on innovative ways of adding value for employees and industry through collaboration with ITOs and our MoU with The Skills Organisation is an excellent example of that process in action.”

“With industries looking to offer employees a wider range of qualifications at different levels we want to make sure they have every opportunity to do this,” says Garry Fissenden, Chief Executive of The Skills Organisation. “Open Polytechnic has the expertise and infrastructure that can provide a range of benefits for our learners across a number of our industries.”

Open Polytechnic will also become The Skills Organisation’s preferred provider for distance learning services where The Skills Organisation purchases this form of delivery for off-job training.

How do stressed New Zealand men get help when they need it?

Mon, 05 Nov 2012 14:32:25 +1300

Nobody’s too sure – that’s why the Mental Health Foundation is working with Open Polytechnic researcher Dr Peta Wellstead on a new project called “The information seeking behaviour of New Zealand men who may be experiencing life stress”.

Part of the project is a Kiwi men’s survey.

“From the survey, we will measure knowledge of information and support services, social network strength, pathways to help and support that men have used in the past,” Mental Health Foundation Chief Executive Judi Clements says.

“We are doing this in order to better target information and support when men are experiencing life stress that may impact on their mental health.”

Dr Wellstead is leading the project for the MHF. She says: “The Mental Health Foundation approached me after I presented a paper at the Wellbeing and Public Policy conference. My paper reported my PhD research which examined the information behaviour of Australian men.

“My [next] project will examine where New Zealand men go to for information, who they talk to and what works and doesn’t work when they are experiencing stressful life events and may need extra help and support.

“We will conduct an online survey during November (which is also Movember) and ask men questions about their information use. The Mental Health Foundation will then use the data I produce from the survey to provide information, products and support services to men in a more targeted way in order to improve their health outcomes.”

Opportunities will be explored for conducting community workshops throughout New Zealand and for presentations at conferences, both domestically and internationally.

The online survey is being promoted to men via a range of websites and communications, including through publicity for this year’s Movember campaign.

Dr Wellstead is the first Open Polytechnic first staff member to be approved ‘research focused’ status for two projects by the Open Polytechnic Research Committee.

The Open Polytechnic is New Zealand’s specialist provider of distance learning, delivering nationally recognised qualifications through New Zealand and internationally.

Bachelor of Social Work now available through Open Polytechnic

Thu, 13 Sep 2012 09:57:04 +1200

The Open Polytechnic is currently accepting applications from potential students for their new Bachelor of Social Work. Delivered by distance learning, the first courses are scheduled to be available from November 2012.

The Bachelor of Social Work is intended for those who are employed in the social services sector, or who would like to gain a formal qualification in this field, and provides the necessary skills and knowledge to pathway to registration as a social worker.

“This qualification will provide the skills and experience needed for a rewarding career in social work. Because it is delivered by distance learning it means that people already working in the industry, or employers who wish to upskill their staff, will be able to fit their studies in around work commitments,” says Open Polytechnic Chief Executive Dr. Caroline Seelig.

Made up of 480 credits, the degree can be completed by part-time learning, or four years of full-time study. The qualification incorporates face-to-face components – and includes three workshops, 120 days of work experience, one week of voluntary work, and two noho marae visits - providing students with a sound combination of theoretical and practical knowledge from social sciences and social work theory.

The Open Polytechnic’s Bachelor of Social Work will deliver a current and relevant programme approach and pedagogy with a strong national focus. Graduates will gain the knowledge to help provide a better understanding of community and social issues and can expect to work in a variety of settings including schools, hospitals, retirement homes, family homes, refugee centres, Marae, government agencies, and community forums.

The Open Polytechnic is New Zealand’s specialist provider of distance learning and one of the largest polytechnics in the country. Each year the Open Polytechnic enrols around 41,000 mainly adult learners who are fitting their studies in around work and other commitments to upskill themselves for current or future careers.

For more information on the Bachelor of Social Work, or to enrol, go to: http://www.openpolytechnic.ac.nz/socialwork

Teachers learn new skills to teach science to primary school students

Thu, 23 Aug 2012 10:22:56 +1200

Lower Hutt primary school teachers will be taking the lead in promoting science innovation through a new scholarship, launched by Lower Hutt Mayor Ray Wallace at an event hosted at the Open Polytechnic.

The graduate qualifications in primary science teaching offered by the Open Polytechnic are open to teachers across New Zealand.

At the breakfast event held in the Reception area the Mayor announced 49 Hutt City Mayoral Scholarships for primary school teachers in Lower Hutt. The scholarships will be funded by the Hutt City Council, Open Polytechnic and GNS Science over the next two years.

“Teachers will be able to learn new skills that will help them capture children’s interest in science,” says the Mayor. “The best time to generate enthusiasm for science is at the primary school level and the Open Polytechnic has taken up the challenge to lead the way.”

The Open Polytechnic graduate qualifications are designed to increase the confidence and ability of primary school teachers to teach science.

The Mayoral Scholarships will cover the course fees for one teacher from each local primary school in Lower Hutt to complete the Open Polytechnic’s new graduate primary science teaching qualification.

The Minister for Science and Innovation, Steven Joyce, in a personal message read at the launch, said the government was committed to science and innovation in the delivery of prosperity and wellbeing for all New Zealanders.

He said by investing in science there was a better chance of finding innovative solutions to issues facing New Zealand and the new course would help teachers bring science to a generation who are learning faster and earlier than their parents.

Open Polytechnic Chief Executive, Dr Caroline Seelig, is enthusiastic about the new scholarship programme. “The teachers participating in the scholarship programme will be able to fit their studies around their work,” she says. ”They will be able to apply their learning into the classroom the next day.”

“I’m really hopeful we will see an upsurge in the number of scientists who are making ground-breaking discoveries – and who will be able to credit their primary school teacher with having inspired them,” she says.

“We are also pleased that GNS Science is supporting this scholarship programme and has offered to host peer support groups for Lower Hutt teachers during their studies.”

GNS Science Chief Executive Dr Alex Malahoff is delighted that Open Polytechnic has taken this initiative. “Children need to absorb the passion for understanding the material world from teachers who can convey that passion. We are not necessarily thinking about science career paths here. It is even more important that those children whose only formal exposure to science is during their school years also become responsible citizens, and appreciate the value of science to society and to the economy no matter what career path they follow.”

The launch was attended by principals from primary schools in Lower Hutt.

Photo: Fom left - Hutt City Mayor Ray Wallace, Open Polytechnic Chief Executive Dr Caroline Seelig, and GNS Chief Executive Dr Alex Malahoff.

Leading New Zealand-focused public relations text now available as eBook

Fri, 10 Aug 2012 14:21:49 +1200

The first eBook to focus on the practice of public relations and communication management in New Zealand has just been published.

Lead author and Open Polytechnic Associate Professor Communications, Dr Gary Mersham co-authored Public Relations and Communication Management: An Aotearoa/New Zealand perspective with Auckland University of Technology senior communication lecturers Dr Petra Theunissen and Joseph Peart.

“The book is the first to focus on New Zealand’s unique cultural, communication, and information environment,” says Dr Mersham, “covering local issues and using relevant kiwi case studies.”

Available for purchase from the Pearson website, the book includes contributions from Dr Elspeth Tilley (Massey University), well known media commentator John Bishop, and Aline Sandilands (AUT University).

“All the contributors have had extensive real world experience in public relations and communication management practice,” says Dr Mersham.

Course leader for the public relations certificate and diploma programmes at distance learning provider, Open Polytechnic, Dr Mersham sees the eBook as an important development.

“Our online course uses the book as a prescribed text which will make it very easy for students to access it, with the bonus that it is cheaper than the print version. In the modern world of learning, where students battle to fit study in with busy work schedules, the ability to access learning whenever possible, anywhere, on any device, has become vital.”

The eBook is also able to be downloaded onto smart phone, tablet or laptop giving students access to materials on the move, regardless of internet connectivity.

“They can also log on at an internet café, library or computer lab.”

Public Relations and Communication Management: An Aotearoa/New Zealand perspective is available for purchase at www.pearsoned.co.nz.

Tai Poutini Polytechnic and Open Polytechnic collaboration benefits West Coast

Wed, 08 Aug 2012 08:49:36 +1200

In a first for the West Coast, students who have completed the New Zealand Diploma in Business with Tai Poutini Polytechnic will now be able to enrol in a Bachelor of Business by distance with the Open Polytechnic and still access Tai Poutini Polytechnic services.

Enrolments are open for the Bachelor of Business until October 26 2012 and courses start on November 5.

The Open Polytechnic’s Bachelor of Business offers majors in accounting, management, human resources and information systems and technology.

TPP’s Chief Executive, Allan Sargison, says he is very pleased to see higher level study opportunities opening up on the West Coast and welcomes closer collaboration with the Open Polytechnic.

“This is part of TPP’s on-going strategy of strengthening tertiary provision on the West Coast so students do not have to travel off-Coast to complete a degree”, he said.

As part of the collaboration agreement, Tai Poutini Polytechnic graduates of the New Zealand Diploma in Business can apply to articulate into the Bachelor of Business with the Open Polytechnic. Students will receive course materials and tutor support from the Open Polytechnic, while still being able to access additional tutorial support, library and computer labs at Tai Poutini Polytechnic.

Open Polytechnic Chief Executive Dr Caroline Seelig, a former academic manager at Tai Poutini Polytechnic, says she is delighted that the two polytechnics have been able to strengthen ties through the collaboration.

“As a national provider of flexible distance learning the Open Polytechnic is committed to helping regional polytechnics’ access a wider range of courses and qualifications that will assist their learners gain the skills they need to succeed in the workforce without leaving home.”

To find out how to enrol at Tai Poutini Polytechnic please phone 0800 800 411.

Open Polytechnic Annual Report shows year of achievement

Wed, 04 Jul 2012 13:49:22 +1200

The Open Polytechnic 2011 Annual Report tabled in Parliament recently shows a year of significant achievement for the flexible learning provider and its distance learning students.

New Zealand’s specialist provider of flexible distance learning services, the Open Polytechnic is one of the largest polytechnics in the country, enrolling over 41,000 mainly adult learners a year from across the nation.

One of the key focuses for the Open Polytechnic during 2011 was to lift its educational performance results to be amongst the highest in the world for distance education, a goal the organisation achieved says Chief Executive Dr Caroline Seelig.

“The Open Polytechnic already had some of the strongest educational performance results in the world for distance learning, and in 2011 we further increased our range of initiatives to support student success, and the results now firmly place us as one of the leaders in distance education globally.”

The Open Polytechnic services a mainly adult constituency of learners who fit their studies around work and family commitments, meaning learners have a range of competing pressures on their time. Successful course completion levels in 2011 rose to 73 per cent, and qualification completion levels climbed to 59 per cent.

The flexible learning provider achieved the improved results by implementing additional measures to improve student success, as well as extra initiatives to support first-time distance learning students. The institution also improved its tracking and reporting processes which allowed it to capture, for example, qualifications achieved by Open Polytechnic students but which are awarded by external bodies - such as its legal executive programme.

The Open Polytechnic also returned a strong financial result, reporting a surplus of $3.7 million. “Our surplus is within the recommended Tertiary Education Commission guideline of between 3-5 per cent, and the TEC financial risk assessment for the Open Polytechnic remains in the ‘low’ ranking”, says Dr Seelig.

Other highlights in 2011 were the launch of new qualifications such as the graduate primary science teaching qualifications.

“The graduate primary science teaching qualifications will be a big help to practising primary school teachers who want to gain the skills to help them teach science confidently in the classroom, and will enable them to be science leaders in their schools and wider communities,” say Dr Seelig. “The Government is very focussed on lifting science competency across New Zealand, and these qualifications have been purpose built to help teachers create interest in the sciences for young New Zealanders.”

Further highlights for the year included the Open Polytechnic becoming one of the 13 founding members of the Open Educational Resource University, and winning the ‘Excellence in Professional Services’ Award at the Westpac Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.

The 2011 Open Polytechnic Annual Report is available to view online at: www.openpolytechnic.ac.nz/about-us/corporate-publications

Open Polytechnic associate professor receives research grant to assess the impacts of climate change

Thu, 31 May 2012 11:53:51 +1200

Open Polytechnic associate professor Dr Gregory De Costa has been awarded a $100,000 research grant from the Asia Pacific Network for Global Change Research (APN-GCR).

“Results of the project will be developed into a management tool to deal with global climate change and its resulting impact on land and water resources in selected Asia Pacific sites. As well as establishing a composite model to forecast changes in land and water resources due to seawater level change, we will also develop a technical and human dimension management strategy. This will increase the profile and awareness of global change, its effect, mitigation and management,” says Dr De Costa.

Administered by APN-GCR and funded by the US National Science Foundation, the US Global Change Research Program and the Ministry of Science Japan, Dr De Costa will lead an international research team towards identifying the effects of climate change by looking at loss of land surface and changes to water resources resulting from rises in sea level.

“Climate change is often discussed as the cause of changes in sea levels, temperature and weather patterns. In our research we are seeking to establish what changes are occurring due to rising sea levels in order to develop the means to manage such changes,” says Dr De Costa.

Commencing the project next month, Dr De Costa will lead a team of university professors and industry leaders from India, Sri Lanka, Japan and Indonesia. As well as leading the project, Dr De Costa will also detail the research work and outputs, as well as coordinate with local and international counterparts.

“Because it is an international research team from Japan, India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and New Zealand, we will be conducting the research using data from specific sites in these locations. We will disseminate our research findings to policy makers by holding a series of workshops in each country,” says Dr De Costa.

Dr De Costa, who also leads the Civil Engineering major in the Open Polytechnic’s engineering technology degree, says the project is expected to take two years.

Open Polytechnic celebrates Auckland graduation

Wed, 16 May 2012 10:58:11 +1200

The Open Polytechnic is proud to be celebrating study success with its students this week (17 May) at its Auckland graduation ceremony.

The nation’s specialist provider of distance learning, the Open Polytechnic holds ceremonies in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch each year.

“This year’s ceremonies are a special highlight for us as we acknowledge the first of our Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood Education) graduates since the launch of our new degree. We are delighted to be a part of upskilling the nation in this exciting and important field,” says Dr Caroline Seelig, Open Polytechnic Chief Executive.

The ceremony will also see three Open Polytechnic business students receive awards for achievement in their respective accounting and taxation courses. Sarah Baldock and Andrew McCrindle will receive awards of excellence from the New Zealand Institute of Chartered Accountants for top marks in first and second year accounting papers. Carol Bovey will receive an award from the Tax Agents Institute of New Zealand for her top mark in the taxation course of the New Zealand Diploma in Business.

Nearly 200 graduates will receive their diploma and degrees at the Auckland ceremony being held at the ASB Theatre in the Aotea Centre.

Guest speaker for the evening is Sir Ray Avery.

Nationwide, over 900 students will receive their diplomas and degrees from the Open Polytechnic this graduating year.

Image: Early Childhood Education graduates Natalie Martin (left) and Miranda Andrews celebrate together after receiving their degrees at Open Polytechnic's Wellington graduation ceremony earlier this month.

Registrations now open for Wellbeing and Public Policy conference

Wed, 09 May 2012 12:49:47 +1200

Registrations are now open for the Wellbeing and Public Policy (WaPP) conference to be held in Wellington this June.

A major international conference, the purpose of the event is to bring together policymakers and world experts to discuss recent advances in wellbeing research and the application of wellbeing research to policymaking at all levels of government.

Hosted by the International Journal of Wellbeing - in conjunction with New Zealand Treasury, Statistics New Zealand, the Institute of Policy Studies, Victoria University of Wellington and the Open Polytechnic - the conference will feature prominent wellbeing researchers and keynote speakers Andrew Clark (Paris School of Economics), Robert Cummins (Deakin University), Paul Frijters (The University of Queensland) and Robert MacCulloch (University of Auckland).

“With rising academic, public and political interest in wellbeing, more and more government officials are considering using wellbeing research to inform their policy decisions. This conference will promote interdisciplinary dialogue on how wellbeing research might be applied to policy making,” says Dr. Aaron Jarden – conference organiser, New Zealand Association of Positive Psychology President, and Open Polytechnic Senior Lecturer of Psychology.

To find our more information or to register, please go to the website http://www.wellbeingandpublicpolicy.org/bulletins.html

DEANZ conference kicks off today in Wellington

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 11:21:54 +1200

Chief executives panel: Mike Hollings, CEO Te Kura, Dr Caroline Seelig, CEO Open Polytechnic, Hon. Steve Maharey, Vice-Chancellor Massey University.

The Distance Education Association of New Zealand (DEANZ) 2012 conference kicks off today in Wellington and features an exciting programme for leaders and practitioners involved in open, flexible and distance learning.

Held over three days, the biannual DEANZ conference is an opportunity for people in the education industry to meet with local and international thought leaders and learn new ideas.

As part of the conference, a special one-hour public lecture by prestigious international speaker Dr. Diana Oblinger will be held tonight. Sponsored by Massey University, Dr. Oblinger will present on ‘Next Generation Learning’ and will invite the opportunity for discussion following her talk.

An expert in the area of online education, Dr. Oblinger is President and CEO of EDUCAUSE, a nonprofit association whose mission is to advance higher education through the use of information technology.

“A new generation of learners, comfortable with technology, allow educators to create the next generation of learning. Today’s learners have almost unlimited access to information, tools, resources and experts,” says Dr. Oblinger.

The lecture will take place between 6pm – 7pm, Wednesday 11 April, at the Michael Fowler Centre in Wellington and will be followed by discussion and refreshments.

To find out more information, please visit the DEANZ website http://tinyurl.com/deanz2012.

The DEANZ 2012 conference is proudly sponsored by Open Polytechnic (platinum), Ako Aotearoa (gold), Echo360, Te Kura (silver), and Massey University, Otago Polytechnic, Southern Institute of Technology and WelTec (bronze).

Open Polytechnic student named top graduate of the New Zealand Law Society Legal Executive Diploma

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 12:51:31 +1300

The Open Polytechnic is celebrating the achievement of Christchurch’s Sally Poyser who was named top graduate of the New Zealand Law Society Legal Executive Diploma for 2011.

“I was very surprised and very pleased. I had had a difficult year personally with a lot of things going on, lots of stress and not much time for study so I was pretty amazed I had managed to do so well, with my best exam marks yet,” says Sally.

Living in Christchurch, Sally’s studies were tested to the limits as she dealt with numerous earthquakes and tremors on top of her already busy lifestyle.

“I have found the earthquakes very unsettling. Whilst I am one of the lucky ones to have no property damage, the experiences themselves are very frightening. In my second year we had quite a strong aftershock in the middle of my property exam which was not very helpful!”

An employee of Chapman Tripp law firm, Sally says the Legal Executive Diploma has been beneficial in her line of work in the legal industry. Comprising six courses, the Level 6 qualification offers a recognised formal qualification and practical and theoretical skills that help students advance in their legal career.

“I have been studying for three years. I chose the Legal Executive Diploma because I have worked in the legal environment for 19 years and wanted to be more involved with the files I am dealing with and also just as a challenge to myself – keep the brain cells ticking over,” says Sally.

“I would recommend this course to anyone who works in the legal environment; it is very good for understanding the legal background to documents you may be working on and makes the work that much more interesting. It can also be a step up in your career path if you wish to move into a more challenging role.”

Studying by distance learning, Sally says she enjoyed being able to work at her own pace and not be tied to going to a class every week at a set time.

“I would also highly recommend studying through the Open Polytechnic for the flexibility and high quality of courses. I note that Open Polytechnic had several highly placed students this year and every year in the New Zealand Legal Executive Diploma exams so they must be doing something right. The tutors were there for support if, and when, I needed it and I found the written material very good.”

Chapman Tripp also assisted her studies, offering and providing valuable support. “My firm has supported my studies all the way through by funding my course fees and letting me have study and exam leave. My family has also been very supportive.”

The Open Polytechnic is one of the largest Polytechnic’s in the country and is enrolled over 40,000 students last year. It is also New Zealand’s specialist provider of open and distance learning, offering a wide range of courses and programmes on a national basis.

Positive new book on positive psychology

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 14:26:57 +1300

An exciting new eBook on positive psychology was launched this week with all money from sales going towards research on wellbeing.

Written by Dr Aaron Jarden - New Zealand Association of Positive Psychology (NZAPP) President and a Senior Lecturer of Psychology at the Open Polytechnic - the book features interviews with thirteen experts in different areas of the new field of positive psychology.

“On a flight to a positive psychology conference in the U.S.A I started noting down all of the questions I wanted answered by the experts I was going to meet. When I got there, I decided to begin interviewing them and they agreed. The areas covered in this book are the kinds of questions I always get asked myself as president of the NZAPP,” says Dr. Jarden.

Available in Kindle Edition on Amazon, ‘Positive Psychologists on Positive Psychology' will be available for two months before it is published as a special edition available for free via the International Journal of Wellbeing (IJW) - an open-access online journal devoted to the study of human wellbeing.

“One purpose of the book was to raise funds for the IJW to further wellbeing research. After its initial listing on Amazon we will then make it free for IJW readers to help promote the journal. Making it free also serves the purpose of getting knowledge of positive psychology out to other academics in psychology who are becoming interested into positive psychology, but don’t really know the lay of the land,” says Dr Jarden.

“It is easy reading and gives insight into how the field came about, what its challenges are and where it is going. This kind of information is not usually discussed, at least not in books or articles. It also highlights discrepancies and areas of agreement between leading figures in the field.”

Just published, the book is already featured in the best seller list on Amazon in its respective category.

“It’s now being translated into Czech, with discussions currently underway to translate the book into Russian, Portuguese and Spanish.

“I would like to write an update in two years as the field is at a tipping point and will change a lot over the next two years,” says Dr Jarden.

For more information on the International Journal of Wellbeing, please go to the website http://www.internationaljournalofwellbeing.org

To purchase the book go to Amazon http://www.amazon.com/Positive-Psychologists-Psychology-ebook/dp/B007IXU1RY/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

Online education expert to give special presentation

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 10:44:08 +1300

The Distance Education Association of New Zealand (DEANZ) is hosting a special one-hour educational lecture – ‘Next Generation Learning’ - presented by prestigious international speaker Dr. Diana G. Oblinger.

An expert in the area of online education, Dr. Oblinger is President and CEO of EDUCAUSE, a nonprofit association whose mission is to advance higher education through the use of information technology.

“A new generation of learners, comfortable with technology, allow educators to create the next generation of learning. Today’s learners have almost unlimited access to information, tools, resources and experts,” says Dr. Oblinger.

“Social networks, mobility, video, visualisation and personal learning environments, offer new opportunities as well as classroom challenges. This presentation highlights emerging technology models, quality, and educational outcomes,” she says.

The lecture will take place between 6pm – 7pm, Wednesday 11 April, at the Michael Fowler Centre in Wellington and will be followed by discussion and refreshments.

A registration-only event, the lecture is part of a three day biannual DEANZ conference – ‘Shift Happens’ – and is the premier conference in Aotearoa New Zealand for leaders and practitioners in open, flexible and distance learning.

To register online for the lecture go to http://tinyurl.com/deanzlecture2012 or email mark.nichols@openpolytechnic.ac.nz

The event is proudly sponsored by Open Polytechnic (platinum), Ako Aotearoa (gold), Te Kura and echo360 (Silver), and Massey University, Otago Polytechnic, Weltec and Southern Institute of Technology (bronze).