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Getting started with online learning

Tīmatahia tō whai i te mātauranga mā te ipurangi

Here’s some information to help you get ready for online study – including what to expect, how to get started, and the support you can access while you’re with us.

We hope the information on this page will help you find what you need or who to talk to when you have any questions or need help, but if you can't find what you need don't hesitate to get in touch:

Contact us

Your orientation to online study

Studying by online learning might be different from any study you’ve done before, but many things will still feel familiar. 

Like face-to-face learning, our courses have start and end dates, and assessments with due dates.The main difference is that you don't attend classes, but some courses may have practicums, noho marae, labs or exams. You manage your own time and work independently through your online course material, with support from us along the way.

First up, you can apply for a Student ID to get discounts at specified businesses nationwide.

Next, check out how we can help you get started, and the online spaces you will use when you study with us.

  • Student Mentors are here to help you get started

    Our Student Mentor team will help you get you started with your study. They can:

    • Guide you through the log in process
    • Show you around your online spaces including your courses in iQualify
    • Answer any questions you have about studying with us. 

    Mentors are available throughout your studies to help you with:

    • Study skills
    • Staying motivated and managing your time
    • Advice about assessment extensions and Special Consideration if you need more time.

    Along with general mentor support, you can connect with a Kaihāpai Māori, Kaihāpai Pasifika or a Disability and Access Services mentor – people who understand your needs and are here to support you every step of the way.

    Ngā Ratonga Kaihāpai | Kaihāpai Māori Services

    Pasifka learner support

    Disability and Access Services

    You can book time with a Student Mentor through the MyOP learner portal (but you need to be logged in to do this) or you can call and ask to talk to a mentor:

  • Explore your online spaces

    As a learner, you’ll regularly use a few places during your study.  

    MyOP learner portal 

    MyOP is your learner portal where you can:

    • See your course information, including start and end dates, assessment dates and results
    • Access your online courses in iQualify
    • Find support information
    • Update your personal and contact details 
    • Apply for assessment extensions (before their due date).

    You can download MyOP as a phone app so you can easily keep track of your study wherever you are.

    iQualify – your online course space

    iQualify is where your online learning happens. Each course includes a mix of reading, videos, interactive activities and quizzes. It’s also where you can message and hear from your Course Facilitator. 

    If you need help with iQualify check our Tips on using iQualify page. 

    Current learners, your online learner handbook

    The Current Learners section of this site is your go-to guide while you study. You’ll find:

    • Study tips and techniques
    • Assessment and exam information, including getting an extension
    • Information about changing your course start date or withdrawing
    • Graduation information. 

    Library and Learning Centre

    Our online library gives you access to databases with books, journals, magazines, articles and other resources for your area of study.

    Library & Learning Centre website 

    More about Library and Learning Centre support 

    Microsoft 365

    While you are studying with us you'll get free access to Microsoft 365 online. This includes Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote and a OneDrive with 10 gigabytes of storage. Learners in most of our programmes can also download the Microsoft office software.

    Learn more about accessing your learner Microsoft 365 account

    Tip - If you already have another Microsoft account, we recommend you use another browser or an incognito window, so you don’t have to switch between accounts. 

    Assistive technology tools

    Check out our assistive technology tools information to find out about free technologies and tools that can help you with online study. 

    Assistive technology tools 

     

Getting started with your study

About two weeks before your course start date, you'll be able to access your online course in iQualify through MyOP.

You can look around and get familiar with your course straight away, or wait until the official start date when the Course Facilitator will be online to support you.

Note – you won't be able to see the assessments until the course starts. 

 

  • Starting your course

    1. Read the course overview

    Our online courses start with a course overview, which will introduce you to what the course will cover.

    You'll also find your Course Facilitator's name here, along with a link to download the course study guide. The study guide shows you what topics to focus on each week and helps you to plan your study time.

    2. Find your assessment due dates

    Check when your assessments are due and add them to your calendar so you can stay organised. You can find these on the MyOP homepage, or when the course officially starts in the ‘Tasks’ section of your iQualify course. If no due dates are showing, your Study Guide will have suggested weeks for submitting each assessment.  

    Writing and submitting assessments

    TIP – Add your assessment due dates to your calendar or print the Study Guide and note the dates in there. You could also make a course calendar to help you see the big picture.
    More about study planning

    3. Check the course ‘Talk’ channels

    ‘Talk’ is where you will get messages and updates from your Course Facilitator. It’s also the best place to contact them if you have any questions about your course or assessments. 

    Go to your iQualify course dashboard

    Tips for using iQualify 

    4. Read through your assessments

    Look over your assessments early on. This will help you understand what’s expected as you work through your course materials.

    When you’re ready to start your assessment, have a look at our Assessment writing tips section.

     

  • Tips for studying online

    Your online courses in iQualify will include a mixture of reading, videos and interactive activities and quizzes to work through. It may also include links to other websites, PDF or library readings. 

    Watch the video below for some tips about studying online in iQualify. You can also check our Study tips and techniques information for help with things like reading skills, research, planning assessments and more. 

     

    Taking notes

    When you get started on your course it's a good to take notes as you go to help you remember things. Also, keep the assessments in mind and take note of what might be relevant. 

    Get some tips on taking notes 

     

  • How to get help with your course

    For course and assessment-related questions contact your Course Facilitator. They are here to guide you through the coursework and make sure you understand the course materials and assessment requirements.  

    You can find out who your Course Facilitator is on the right side of the ‘Overview’ page of the course. 

    The best way to contact them is through the course ‘Talk’ channel. This is where you can look out for regular messages from them and join discussions about the course. 

    Go to your iQualify course dashboard

    If you ever have trouble getting in touch with your Course Facilitator, contact us: 

    Contact us 

     

Learner support and wellbeing

Studying by distance doesn’t mean you will be on your own. We’ll be with you every step of the way. There’s plenty of support available to help you succeed and feel connected. Visit the pages below to find out more about the support you can access:

Course and study support

Support for ākonga Māori

Support for Pasifika learners

Disability and Access Services