Key elements of the tutorial support management model

Abstract

In response to an exponential growth in enrolments the Tutorial Support Management (TSM) model has been adopted by Open Universities Australia (OUA) after a two-year project on the provision of online tutor support in first year online undergraduate units. The essential focus of the TSM model was the development of a systemic approach to the provision of online tutorial support for high enrolment units. Findings from this project indicate that the TSM model has provided benefits in terms of improved student retention, performance, and satisfaction in addition to increased return and reenrolment rates. This paper outlines the key elements of the TSM model and offers comments on various issues that need to be taken into account in adopting this model.