Frequently Asked Questions: Distance Learning

Are your Distance Learning products accredited?

All of our products have been developed by appropriately accredited training organisations. Quality standards for PRINCE2, MSP and ITIL are assured by the APM Group - which is also reponsible for all exams.

Distance Learning OR Classroom Course?

Each has advantages and disadvantages.

The plus points for Distance Learning are
- it's generally cheaper, and you save on travel as well as the course itself
- learn when you want and at your own pace
- time to practice for your exam to ensure you are ready

The negatives are
- no live instructor to advise and coach you (though email support is often available)
- no interaction with other class members who may bring different perspectives and interests
- some people find self motivation and time management a challenge

Focus recommends the "Blended" packages for the Practitioner level courses as the classroom element is more valuable when it comes to real life scenarios - rather than simple learning of the principles.

Whilst you might expect pass rates to be lower for distance learning products this is not generally the case for the accredited, high qulaity packages we offer. They have excellent content - and students are often highly motivated to succeed.

For "Blended" packages how do I arrange my classroom course?

The product provider will maintain regular contact with you. They will have classroom events scheduled on various dates and they will arrange for you to attend the one that is most convenient for you.

How do I order and pay for Distance Learning products?

Please complete the order form associated with the product you wish to buy. Focus will contact you as soon as possible to arrange payment by credit card over the phone.

Payment by cheque or bank transfer is also possible but we will need to receive payment before the product can be despatched.

Once payment is received we will confirm this to you, and the product will be sent to you directly from the relevant supplier. Usually there is a package sent by post; sometimes there is simply an online access facility which is sent by email.

How long do the courses take?

There is no easy answer, but it is best to set yourself a target and study as intensively as you can.

An ITIL Foundation course is likely to require about 10-15 hours study time and is often completed over a period of 2 weeks.

A PRINCE2 blended Practitioner course can require 25-50 hours study plus attendance at an exam preparation workshop. An elapsed timescale of 6-8 weeks may be more realistic.

Note that any exam vouchers included with the distance learning products are normally only valid for 12 months from purchase (sometimes less).

Is my exam included?

You need to study the product description because this can vary. For PRINCE2 and MSP courses the exams, if included, are generally taken at an event organised by the product provider. For ITIL courses the exam, if included, is likely to be in the form of a voucher which can be redeemed at a Pearson Vue or Thomson Prometric testing centre.

What if I am not based in the UK?

Where there is no classroom content or location specific exam then the packages can be used worldwide. If required we can supply packages without the exams included.

Within the UK there are no delivery charges. Elsewhere charges vary and we will advise you of the charge applicable before you make payment.

What's the difference between "Distance Learning" and "E-Learning"?

Distance Learning is a more general term which has been used for many years to describe all forms of learning which are not classroom based.

E-Learning generally implies that the product includes interactive content accessed via a computer. This may be accessed via a CD, or from a web portal.

Many courses use a combination of different media.

Where can I find E-learning for IT and desktop applications?

Focus offers a range of accredited packages for Project Management and IT service Management topics through its main website.

For other online learning options visit our bookstore. Many titles can be accessed immediately. Please note that the bookshop has its own shopping cart and payment system.

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