Choosing a delivery mode to suit your early childhood studies

When planning your studies, one of the main concerns is how to strike a balance between study and work while still leaving time for your personal life. Getting this balance right may seem like a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be.

If you’re new to study or vocational education you might not realise there are several delivery modes to choose from.

Choosing a delivery mode to suit your goals and lifestyle gives you greater control over your studies and the ability to thrive. We offer early childhood training options developed to suit a range of lifestyles, giving you the flexibility and support you need to succeed.

What is a delivery mode?

For those new to study, the term ‘delivery mode’ might sound a little confusing. First, let’s break down what it means.

A delivery mode is the way training instructions are delivered to facilitate and support the learning process. In simple terms this means how the subject will be taught.

We offer three delivery modes:

• Distance training
• Workplace training
• Supported classroom learning

The mode you choose will depend on your course and whether or not you’re already working in an early childhood education setting. Whatever mode you choose, you’ll receive support from our dedicated trainers and learner success team the entire way.

1. Distance training

The first delivery mode we’ll cover is distance training. Distance training refers to a mode where students are not physically present at learning centres or in the classroom.

Distance training is available to those not currently working in an education and care/community services organisation or to those whose workplace is outside the areas our trainers visit.

Learners studying early childhood education and care will study online. You’ll have access to our interactive online portal which is where you’ll find course materials and submit your assignments. Plus, a user-friendly dashboard to keep track of your progress.

Study to suit your lifestyle while still receiving trainer support

While some people will immediately see the benefits of distance training, to others it might sound like you’ll be learning by yourself. Don’t worry – you won’t be doing it alone. We pair you with a dedicated trainer who will provide support and guidance when you need it. We also help to organise practical placement in a convenient location. During placement, your trainer will drop by to check in with you and provide ongoing support.

In summary, the benefits of distance training include:

• Study when it suits you
• Develop a relationship with your trainer via email, online messaging and phone
• We help you arrange practical placement in a setting that works for you
• Regular visits from your trainer during placement

2. Workplace training

Workplace training is for those who are already employed and wanting to take the next step in their career. Basically, workplace training means studying while continuing to work at the same time.

Learners studying early childhood education will study online, with access to our interactive online portal. Through the portal you’ll find things like learning materials, assignments and helpful tips for online study. Our interactive portal incorporates the latest innovations in online learning, giving you the opportunity to advance your career from home.

Workplace training means reaching your goals sooner

When you choose workplace training, you won’t have to sacrifice your income in order to study. For many students financial security can be a real problem – but with workplace training you won’t have to worry, giving you the time and space you need to focus on learning. What’s more, workplace hours in a long day care setting count as placement –you won’t need to put in any extra time to get your qualification.

Another clear benefit is being able to put everything you’re learning into practice on the job in real-time. This means cementing your knowledge as you attain it and speeding up the process of becoming competent.

You’ll also have the support of a passionate and experienced trainer who will visit your workplace to catch up and provide ongoing coaching.

In summary, the benefits of workplace training include:

• Earn while you learn
• Apply learning in real-time
• Regular visits from your trainer
• Working hours are logged as placement hours
• Access our interactive online learning portal

3. Supported classroom learning

It’s been a while, but we’re finally back in the classroom. Our latest delivery mode offers you the opportunity to early childhood education in person, with all the benefits that being in the classroom entails.

For those who choose this delivery mode, you’ll attend classes 2 days per week over the course of a 12-week term. This will be followed by online learning and practical observations.

We also offer a virtual classroom option for those who can’t make it to campus but still want to enjoy the interactive benefits of classroom learning.

Studying in-person has a unique range of benefits

We’ve gotten used to doing everything online, but it’s easy to forget how many advantages there are to learning in person.

Classroom learning gives you immediate access to your trainers and the opportunity to learn from your peers in a collaborative environment. You will be able to ask questions, discuss new topics and problem-solve with a group of like-minded people. It’s an opportunity to build the interpersonal skills which will take you far in your future career as an educator or carer.

What’s more, you’ll have access to all the resources classroom has to offer. Forget about poor internet connections, noisy households or the distractions of working from home. Our classroom has dedicated study space where you’ll be able to access the internet and enjoy much needed quiet time.

To sum up just a few of the benefits:

• Get help from your trainers in real time
• Collaborate with your peers
• Social interaction
• Access to resources
• Structured and immersive learning
• Fast-track into work placement

Reach your goals by choosing the study mode that’s right for you

Deciding on the right delivery mode is an integral part of committing to a new course. Knowing what option suits your lifestyle and individual needs means that you’ll have more opportunities to succeed, feel supported and reach your career goals.

The team at Selmar can answer your questions and go through our delivery modes to find out what’s right for you.