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Give up distance learning and start again?

Lisa

Hi All,

I’m a very, very mature student. I’ve been studying my Level 5 Diploma in HRM via distance learning and have found it incredibly challenging. I miss the interaction and discussions with others. I’m not one for social media and perhaps this might have made a difference. UThis is my foray into forums etc. having recently replied to a post by another member.

I didn’t go to college or university and the language the assignments use is confusing and I also don’t recognise  the elements of my job that would be applicable. For example I didn’t think I used negotiating, influencing or persuading skills in my role. I’m a HR Advisor!

I’ve completed some of the assignments but not submitted as their not submission ready.

I’m thinking of quitting the distance learning and starting again but this time going to college.

Am I mad?

I’ve recently be signposted to the ‘Nutshells/Nutcases’ books.

Can anyone suggest any other books/guides that might help me with answering the assignment questions?

All feedback gratefully received.

Lisa

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  • I've recently finished my Level 5 Certificate in HRM via Mixed mode/distance learning. I don't know how the courses differ, but I had an allocated Coach/Assessor who I was able to go through assignments with, particularly if there was anything I didn't understand. Once the language was 'explained' it made a lot more sense. I was also lucky in that working in Local Government I work in a large team and was allocated a Mentor as further support, particularly in relation to applying my organisational knowledge etc to the assignments.
    When I started the assignment I didn't think I would be able to demonstrate negotiating, influencing or persuading skills in my role, but I was still able to demonstrate the skills in a wider context albeit not directly HR related (e.g IT project skills).
    As I was provided with a Reading list I bought the main core text book - Studying Human Resource Management - by Stephen Taylor and Carol Woodhams and there is also a book available for the optional modules Human Resource Management: People and Organisations -
    by Stephen Taylor and Carol Woodhams.
    Even with all the support outlined above and have previously completed a degree (albeit in very different subject area) I did find it challenging, so don't give up and you will get there (I did!). Although you may decide you prefer the college style of learning.
    I have often seen people on this forum asking to pair up with others studying and also what about your Local CIPD branch (who may offer mentoring?)
  • in reply to Clare
    Thanks Clare. I don’t think the course providers I’ve gone with are the best and my employer (left there now) wasn’t supportive. Lisa
  • in reply to Lisa
    I found out I really wasn't suited to distance learning - I just don't process information well from a text book and just can't translate that to application at all. It was very difficult and had a poor effect on my confidence - I felt I was thick for not being able to get on with it like others were.

    I quit and went on weekly day release to Uni and had a much better time, being able to connect with the cohort who were also exploring academic language and approaches to assignments. It allowed me to discuss on a weekly basis the things that I'd gone away and processed from the last session - It wasn't easy but I flourished and completed my post grad with merit. I'm also still in touch with my cohort, we meet regularly and share information, jobs and whatnot.

    It was the making of my HR career so don't be afraid to really examine how you learn and process information and choose the delivery that suits you.
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  • in reply to Lisa
    I found out I really wasn't suited to distance learning - I just don't process information well from a text book and just can't translate that to application at all. It was very difficult and had a poor effect on my confidence - I felt I was thick for not being able to get on with it like others were.

    I quit and went on weekly day release to Uni and had a much better time, being able to connect with the cohort who were also exploring academic language and approaches to assignments. It allowed me to discuss on a weekly basis the things that I'd gone away and processed from the last session - It wasn't easy but I flourished and completed my post grad with merit. I'm also still in touch with my cohort, we meet regularly and share information, jobs and whatnot.

    It was the making of my HR career so don't be afraid to really examine how you learn and process information and choose the delivery that suits you.
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