In 2008, the Open Polytechnic of New Zealand offered a new programme in e-learning, the Certifi cate in Designing and Facilitating E-learning (Level 5). The programme consists of three compulsory courses. The courses are vocational in focus and build upon knowledge, involving an introduction to current e-learning theory, practical training in e-learning facilitation, and the creation of an individual e-learning course. The authors are lecturers at the Open Polytechnic, and were among the fi rst students to complete the new qualifi cation. In this working paper they summarise their experiences in completing the Certifi cate, as well as key lessons they learned while attempting to translate current teaching practices into an online learning environment.

Open and distance learning (ODL) provides unique challenges for student retention and course completion. In an increasingly competitive educational environment, measures such as retention and completion form the basis for the evaluation of institutional and student performance. Information and Library Studies (ILS) faculty at the Open Polytechnic achieve and maintain consistently high retention and completion rates across their faculty-taught ODL courses. This research documents the development and application of strategies that contribute to these high success rates.

Some distance education institutions have invested heavily in print-based resources, and learners still show a preference for print; but some concepts and practical or skills based courses, for example science or engineering, do not translate well into the print medium. This paper presents Augmented Reality (AR) as a possible solution and discusses the development and implementation of an AR application into traditional print learning materials.