Communication and Support
One of the most challenging aspects of studying by distance learning is that students can feel isolated. Whilst studying at a distance undeniably requires considerable self-motivation, it is essential to remember that you are not alone. Support is always on hand, whether from administrators, academic tutors or your fellow students. It’s important to talk – share your experience – we’re in this together.
Support from family and friends
Many of our students fit their studies around work, family and social commitments. If this is true for you, recognise that your family and friends can play an important role in helping support you through your whole programme. We have written a letter for family and friends which briefly explains what they can expect during your studies. Family and Friends Support Letter.
Communicating with tutors and fellow students on the OLE
Module discussion boards
We find that students get more out of their studies if they discuss key aspects of the modules with their classmates and tutors. For this reason, we have created module discussion boards on the OLE. Sometimes you will be prompted by the module materials to visit the board or your tutor may invite you to comment on a particular topic. Most students are simply waiting for someone else to start a discussion. Be brave and start a conversation. Our students are based all over the world so the variety of case studies and differing points of view that can be brought to a discussion can be fascinating.
CeDEP discussion boards
Paul Smith acts as Study Director providing pastoral care and practical advice to students in all programmes. General and/or over-arching academic and academic-related queries and discussion should be raised with him through CeDEP’s online learning environment, but for personal/private communications, his email address is provided here.
Study Director: Paul Smith ps59@soas.ac.uk
Talk to your tutor
Your module tutor is your first point of contact for academic queries relating to your studies. Whilst much teaching is carried out through the online learning environment, and you will be expected to upload assignments so that they can be marked by your tutor, communication can also be carried out via email.
Once a month, tutors will email you an e-digest. This may include: a summary of discussions from the online learning environment, explanation of specific queries which have been raised by one or more individuals which are of relevance to all those studying the module and an update of news and current information relating to the topic area.
Online help from your Administrator
If you have a query about procedures for enrolment, assignment submission, or use of the OLE, please post an Admin query.
Contacting your Administrator
We have a dedicated student support team available to provide you with help and advice throughout your studies. If you have problems with your study workload or feel isolated, talk to us – we’re here to help cedepadmin@soas.ac.uk
Student and alumni social networking
Join the student network
This network can put you in touch with people on your module or who reside in your country, who have given permission to be contacted. Even if you aren’t at the same point in your studies, you are sharing some of the same study experiences and they will understand what you are going through. You may find that not everyone will respond when you email but keep your options open and keep trying.
Join the Facebook or Linked In groups
Both groups are completely run by students and alumni, not by the Centre, so you can speak your mind freely. You can meet your fellow students here without the Centre interfering – this is a social area.
