Open Colleges
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I was very appreciative that I was able…
I was very appreciative that I was able to obtain my Certificate 111 on line and have the opportunity undertake my studies in my own time. I found the modules interesting and relevant to what I was studying. My modules and assessments were marked in relative good time however I did struggle with getting feedback in a timely manner. Student Support were always very polite and helpful. However, when it came time to complete my work placement, the process caused me a lot of anxiety. There was no support from Open College in finding a placement and when I finally was successful there seemed to be a standoff between the facility and Open College. There was no communication between the two and I spent hours on the phone trying to facilitate this process. It took 8 months from when I was approved to when all documentation and paperwork was signed off to complete a mere 120 hours of actual placement. The time I spent with the clients and other support workers was rewarding and I learned a great deal from these amazing people. I would suggest future students are made aware of the challenges they are to face regarding the main part of the course ie their placement prior to commencing and paying their fees. It would be helpful if Open College liased with specific facilities in all states in order to provide students with some direction regarding their placement. If this were the case, facilities, students and Open College would have a mutual understanding of requirements. It would be a smooth transition for students saving time and stress for all concerned. In my opinion student placement is the most important part of the course but due to the complexities of documentation staff at the facilities have no time to deal with the additional workload and copious amounts of paperwork. Having the weekly communication on line was a great idea and unfortunately was only available at the end of my course but hopefully future students will benefit from this helpful guidance. Overall, I am pleased I did the course but what I initially believed was a 10 month course has drawn out to be 18 months and although I have completed my course I am still yet to receive my certificate.