Write about your experiences doing an MA (MBA, MSc, MEd, etc.) on this page.

It would be useful if you include the name of the course, institution, mode of learning and dates.

Note: The comments on these pages do not necessarily reflect those of the Learner Independence SIG of TESOL Arabia.

I finished my MA (Applied Linguistics/TESOL) about 10 years ago, and the course is now defunct (U/Surrey), so I don't think writing about my experiences is too relevant - I mean we still used fax and phone rather than email, and sent assignments by snailmail - I even handwrote assignments!

I remember feeling very isolated at times - I didn't know other people doing DL courses, I had no real clue or examples regarding how to write the assignments, or what was expected. I couldn't keep to the deadlines - personal circumstances - but the Uni was flexible and the length of time for the first part was 4 years - I really appreciated that. I had trouble getting the books - and spent a fortune - I suppose that isn't really an issue these days with the internet and Amazon, and the likelihood of being in contact with others on the course - or being able to get books from other DL students who are colleagues. I didn't like the feedback on cassette at all, and sometimes wanted to argue back, but the distance made it difficult - for one assignment I tried arguing by FAX, but that didn't work out really! I wrote my dissertation in the UK and, as I was able to phone up, my tutor was quite supportive.

I felt a real sense of achievement when I finished as I felt as though I had really done it 'on my own'.

I hope to do another DL Masters sometime - when I can afford it! Having done one the 'old-fashioned way', I am sure it would be easier nowadays, and the issues I mentioned are more or less resolved - and with more people in the UAE doing DL degrees, there would be a community of students to turn to for support.