Online learning is not the same, however you can have a very enjoyable experience if you are willing to put in effort to get to know people and communicate regularly.

The first thing you notice is you need to logon to a learning platform for access to your courseware, trainer and other course participants.

There will be a range of communication tools that you will be required to use. Some key examples are:

• Assignments (for receipt and submission of assignments)
• Calendar (e.g. assignments due, online meetings will be displayed)
• Discussion Board (an area where messages of interest to all participants will be displayed)
• Mail Box (you personal mail box which can be linked to your nominated email address)
• Voice Board and Voice Direct (for online discussions and voice board postings)
• Use will also be made of a Live Classroom (will be used as part of induction prior to course commencement and for some training sessions)

If you start to feel isolated, you do need to contact your trainer immediately. Your trainer can help you make friends and feel part of the group.