Distance Learning

DISTANCE LEARNING AT STADIO
STADIO’s distance learning programmes offer students excellent, quality education without the need to attend venue-based classes. The rapid technological advances of the past decade have transformed distance learning into an exciting study option for many students in South Africa, SADC, and internationally.  However, STADIO recognises that many prospective students have only limited access to technology, with restricted connectivity, networks, and bandwidth. The STADIO distance-learning and teaching model therefore makes provision for this reality, ensuring that students can combine work and studies meaningfully, regardless of personal circumstances.  

Distance learning and teaching at STADIO is built on best practices, enabled and supported by technology. This includes a world-class learning management system where students can access their learning materials, assessments, and live online classes for each of the modules for which they have registered. In addition, in some qualifications, study materials will be provided in printed format.  
Key dates for milestones, such as assignment submissions and live online sessions, will be communicated well in advance to allow students to plan their studies. Online sessions are not compulsory; however, students are encouraged to participate in scheduled sessions as they are designed to promote student success. Online sessions are always recorded for convenience.  

Throughout the distance-learning journey, academic support is only a click away. Questions may be asked in the online module environment, where the lecturer will provide guidance. Distance-learning students have easy access to online library facilities and an eBook library, as well as access to a variety of online databases to support their studies. There is a physical library for distance-learning students on the Krugersdorp campus. STADIO understands the potential isolation of distance learning, and further provides a range of other support services to promote academic success and general student wellbeing.  The full distance-learning experience is also accessible using your mobile device. 

WHO SHOULD CONSIDER DISTANCE LEARNING?
Distance learning is suitable for students who wish to study from any location without the need to attend classes at a specific venue. Apart from the obligation to submit assessment tasks punctually, distance learning provides students with the flexibility to create their own study schedules. This option is particularly well suited for working adults, mature learners, or school-leavers who prefer learning at their own pace, reside at a distance from STADIO’s campuses, or have other commitments during the day. Despite the physical distance, students still have access to expert lecturers, current study materials, and peer engagement through the online module learning environment. 

That said, it is important to highlight that some assessments, including the final examination, may require attendance at one of our exam venues, available throughout South Africa and internationally. This is STADIO’s commitment to ensuring the integrity of its qualifications and the credibility of its graduates. 

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM STADIO
Students will have access to a range of resources and facilities in person and online, designed to support not only their learning journey but also their social and emotional well-being. In most modules offered through distance learning in the schools of Administration and Management, Commerce, Law, and Policing and Law Enforcement, printed study materials are available in addition to the online study guides.  STADIO offers academic support and wellness initiatives throughout the learning journey to help students realise their goals.

WHAT STADIO WILL EXPECT FROM YOU
In addition to engaging with the study materials (whether printed or online), students are required to utilise the online learning management system on their learning journey. Students, therefore, need access to a computer and to the internet to access and submit their assessments and to access feedback. STADIO believes that the key to academic success, especially in distance learning, is motivation and consistent engagement. Students will be expected to submit their assessment tasks on time and to take part in the learning activities designed to assist their learning journey. STADIO expects all students to always act in accordance with the principles of the Student Code of Conduct and the STADIO values and to be familiar with the institutional policies and rules, especially those pertaining to student success.

Candidates who do not meet the requirements for degree studies listed above, but who have reached the ages of 23 or 45 respectively, may apply for Mature Age Exemption via the USAF Matriculation Board under the following conditions:

• Candidates who have reached/will reach the age of 23 during the first year of registration and who have achieved a Senior Certificate with a pass in at least four subjects, including one of the official languages and including one subject on Higher Grade

• Candidates who have reached the age of 45 before or during the first year of registration. 

STADIO is committed to achieving inclusion and to overcome barriers to access and success in higher education. Applicants who do not meet the stated admission criteria, but who have relevant work experience and/or prior learning may apply for admission under the policy on Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). STADIO admits a maximum of 10% per cohort via RPL.

The implementation of RPL is context-specific, in terms of discipline, programme and level. Further information may be obtained from your Student Recruitment Advisor.

A limited number of applicants will be admitted under the rules of Recognition of Prior Learning, to find out more read HERE.