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Our distance learning modules run alongside the onsite modules and they're blended in the
sense that distance learning students can have the confidence of knowing that they're
getting the same readings, same assignments, as the onsite students. They're having the
same rigorous experience and that's reflected in the degree that they get.
Canvas is our Virtual Learning Environment. They log into that and there they'll find
an array of readings, of discusson questions, discussion forums, linked to each seminar.
They can also expect to see lecture recordings. We use a software called Panopto that allows
us to record live when we're teaching in class. They can also as I was saying expect lively
discussion forums which are moderated and led back by the instructors of the courses.
Recently we're also experimenting with other things like collaborative blogs, that students
might work on together with the instructor. Also webinars. So, live sessions with a small
group of students that might be able to log in and discuss topics in real time together.
If it's possible for them, they're also invited to come to the Institute for modules or for
weekend study courses, if they're able. Specifically, the Education students come for one-week intensive
study that's taught both by us and practitioners at the RSC.
They can expect a really immersive, exciting and rigorous experience. They can also expect
to become part of a community. We have a very exciting and unique community at the Shakespeare
Institute in Stratford and that spills over into the online life of our programmes. So,
for instance, we have a weekly seminar series during term time in which scholars from all
across the country and also across the world, come to visit us and give us a talk on their
new research and as much as it's possible we podcast that and make it available exclusively
to our students. Some of the staff members also engage in all sorts of different ways
of digital existence. Myself, for instance, I'm very active on Twitter and engaging with
students through shared discussions about Shakespeare and the wider popular culture.
I think my favourite thing is the diversity of our distance learning student cohort. And
also, their passion and their energy. And it's really exciting to me that often students
come with different kinds of expertise. So, expertise from working in the classroom or
from working on the stage. Sometimes from working in an entirely different field altogether.
And at the same time sometimes we have students who are at the very beginning of their careers
but have an enthusiasm coming out of undergraduate study, this real passion for Shakespeare.