As thousands begin to enjoy their new tablets, Kindles and smartphones, a leading distance learning provider is helping people put their Christmas gifts to good use.
In response to the rise in popularity of mobile computing, predicted to overtake desktop computing by 2014*, RDI has optimised its UK university degree courses for mobile devices, enabling students to hop from PC to tablet, mobile phone or Kindle throughout their day.
As most distance learners are in part or full time employment, it is hoped the multi- platform ‘iLearn’ package will aid learning on the go, converting the daily commute into valuable classroom time.
Mike Lawns is studying Computing and Systems Development with RDI and is one of the first students looking to gain a ‘commuter qualification’.
He said, “I do a lot of study on the bus while on my way to work. I have a Kindle so thought it would be useful to use the iLearn facility and store all the modules on this. It is simple to do and the lectures become searchable and accessible to a dictionary. A lot of the text books are also available as Kindle downloads which suited me as I could then read the chapters on the bus.”
And to help potential students decide whether to embark on an educational experience with their Christmas tech, RDI has also launched ‘iLearn Explorer’ – a completely free module that gives users the full distance learning experience, including access to extensive online learning resources, interactive debate and programmes of tutor support.
Dr Phil Hallam, CEO of RDI, said: “Kindles, tablets and smartphones have become everyday technology, designed precisely to help people work, play and stay connected while on the go – why not add ‘learning’ to that list?
“Distance learning perfectly suits those who want to fit education around their busy lives so making RDI’s resources aligned with the latest mobile platforms was a logical step. And with the new iLearn Explorer module, we hope to give more people the chance to find out just how fulfilling the distance learning experience can be.”
Demand for online degrees in the UK with RDI is up 38% on 2011. With traditional campus university tuition fees rising up to £27,000 for a three year course, and the average cost of going to university reported as £53,000, UK distance learning degrees are an increasingly attractive option. RDI offers the lowest cost university degree in the UK with tuition fees of as low as £8,995 in total.
To find out more about distance learning and about the range of courses available from RDI, visit www.rdi.co.uk.
