“Online learning is not inferior to normal face-to-face delivery”
Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic) Ir. Professor Lau Hieng Ho, Swinburne University of Technology
“The safety of the Swinburne community is our priority. We believe that good teaching is good teaching, and it is about our academic staff, course design and learning management system that will assist the smooth transition from face-toface to digital” stated Deputy ViceChancellor and Chief Executive Officer of Swinburne Sarawak Professor John Wilson.
“Swinburne uses the latest learning management system CANVAS that was first introduced to our staff and students in 2019, replacing earlier learning management system Blackboard. It’s one of the world’s leading system that is also adopted by other renowned universities such as Harvard, Stanford and Yale. Additionally, we’ve set up virtual classrooms and an array of learning materials including videos and podcasts to enhance the learning experience. Our key laboratories are also available remotely using special software,” remarked Professor Wilson.
Expanding on the online delivery mode, he said Swinburne library is also available online where students can browse through the online collections via the library website. Students will be able to find databases and subject guides, watch library tutorial video, as well as browse through e-book, magazine, newspaper, reference, and thesis or final-year project collections.
Committed to produce future-ready learners
“Contrary to common perception, online learning is not inferior to normal face-toface delivery. I believe this is an active and modern way of learning in our commitment to producing future-ready learners. With CANVAS, staff and students can access it from any locations using their PC, laptop, tablet or other suitable mobile devices,” said Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic) Ir. Professor Lau Hieng Ho.
Nawaloka College of Higher Studies
Students at Nawaloka College are privileged to be privy to the best online facilities both locally and globally. “We were quick to act as we were able to use the most up-todate online learning platforms in association with our affiliated universities. Classes changed from face-to-face learning to online learning within only a few days.” stated Dr Alan Robertson, Dean of Studies, Nawaloka College of Higher Studies. He explained that students will have access to all Swinburne material, as well as support from the local academic steam.
“Lecturers have adapted their teaching strategies accordingly. In addition to lectures they try to ensure that student questions can be addressed during the online sessions. Students have been very active to interact between themselves in relation to group activities such as projects, presentations and teambased assignments” Dr. Robertson explained.
Additional Classroom Sessions to Support Learners
Furthermore, Nawaloka College will be implementing additional class sessions later this semester to ensure that students have every opportunity for success in their current studies. These will be either online or in the classrooms depending on the directions of the Sri Lankan government. Nawaloka College is committed to ensure that the learning for their students will not be impeded or delayed and that their future academic goals can be achieved.
A well experienced Swinburne faculty will lead the local academics ensuring that students are exposed to an international learning experience. Academic programs will follow the same syllabuses, method of delivery and evaluation methods as the Swinburne University. During the Covid-19 pandemic, lecturers will take all measures to ensure that students are safe and keep abreast of their studies. Individual coaching and support are available to all students, be in Sri Lanka or post transfer to Australia, Malaysia or USA.
For more information,please contact Nawaloka Collegeon 0777 899 998 or email info@nchs.edu.lk