Frequently Asked Questions about E-learning
What is the relationship between the cost of face-to-face training and e-learning?
Face-to-face training and e-learning have similar costs. Firstly, e-learning requires more sophisticated technology, but saves travel and accommodation costs (for students and tutors). Secondly, e-learning allows you work through the training material in your own time, so you can combine learning with other activities, which lowers the opportunity cost for taking an auditor course.
Is e-learning as effective as traditional classroom training?
The end result of e-learning training is as good, if not better than classroom training when it comes to learning theoretical content. Our methodology, based on self-study, lectures, quizzes, and the opportunity to interact with a tutor during the course, maximizes learning retention and also exposes you to more material than what is the case with the face-to-face course. Trainees who wish to develop skills in applying standards in a practical setting are advised to take one or more of our blended courses.
Do I receive the same qualification as that obtained with a face-to-face course?
In order to achieve the basic level of preparation, as a basis for achieving a qualification as an auditor, trainees must complete a "blended" course, which includes, in addition to e-learning, also a face-to-face part that is focused on the development of practical skills in applying standards in concrete, audit-like situations.
How much time is needed to complete the course?
There is no time limit for completing each module, but one you start a course on the ASTRA platform, you are expected to finish it within the time limit set for each course (e.g. two months for our FSC COC and FSC FM Auditor courses. If you exceed the total time given to complete the whole course, you will be locked out and will have to reregister for the course.
What bandwidth do I need to access the internet platform?
The site has been specifically developed to cater for the students working with low band widths. Even 28k is accessible, but download time of work files will be longer.
How long do I have to wait before I will receive feedback from my mentor on queries?
All queries will be responded to within 24 hours!