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About DeCUSQ offers a wide portfolio of undergraduate and postgraduate programs to off-campus students across Australia and internationally. With a long history of providing distance education, and over seventy-five percent of students studying in distance or online modes, the provision of high quality learning resources and student support is essential to support the learning and teaching goals of USQ. DeC was the first distance education facility in the world to receive international quality accreditation to ISO9001 standard for all processes. All distance education coursework courses are externally accredited by the Accrediting Commission of the US Distance Education and Training Council (DETC). This external accreditation guarantees the quality of the education offered by USQ. DeC provides a range of services to meet the specific needs of staff involved in teaching and learning activities across the University. Services include the development, production and distribution of quality learning resources and an integrated range of support services for students and staff. DeC also provides services to support USQ staff who are involved in the use of technologies including ICE and GOOD cross media publishing systems, multimedia and web development, learning management systems, and a range of media services, including video, audio, graphic design and photography. DeC is involved in research into Distance and e-Learning, the use of new technologies, online education and other related fields, and produces its own internationally refereed electronic journal e-JIST which contains articles, reports and links to current developments. Course development processDeC is responsible for ensuring that study materials are produced and delivered to students ready for the start of each semester. The University has developed policies, processes and timelines to ensure this takes place. It is essential for the benefit of students that these timelines are followed. Staff in DeC work with course writers to create and maintain quality resources, and can provide information and advice on services available. Services are available for all stages of the production process. As new technologies emerge and alternative methods of delivery evolve, other processes enabling the timely updating and modification of study packages whether they exist in print, on CD or online via the internet are being developed. DeC staff are leading the way in the use of XML and content repositories through the GOOD system (Generic Online/Offline Delivery) and the development of an easy-to-use course editing environment through the ICE system (Integrated Content Environment). Some writers are now using the ICE system to edit their course materials. This system is still to undergo further development to include variations of course content, but its use is expanding.
DeC staff are also exploring the development of new 'transmodal' forms of delivery involving the use of different combinations of technologies and teaching methods to support a common study package available to all students whether on campus or off campus. DeC seeks regular feedback from staff and distance education students about the services it provides including the effectiveness of its current systems. Students are asked to complete a Distance Education Student Questionnaire at the end of each semester. The data is collected, analysed and considered in future planning by DeC Management. Contact InformationDeC is located in Y Block, a purpose-built facility for the creation of distance and e-learning resources. We welcome your active participation in the range of activities and services offered through the Centre. Outreach Services |
