The following awards are available for conference presenters at FLANZ 2024. Award-winners are expected to attend the FLANZ 2024 conference. Their conference registration will be waived, and they will be offered the opportunity to present a webinar or write a blog for FLANZ following the conference.

Awards 1-2 will be selected by the submission review committee against the criteria listed for each award. The Best poster award will be judged by the local conference organising committee during the conference.

  1. Best full paper.

  • Educational significance. The paper makes a significant contribution to advancing the understanding of best practices in flexible learning, e-learning, distance and open education in New Zealand.
  • Originality. The paper presents original ideas, concepts, or approaches that offer a fresh perspective on the challenges and opportunities in flexible learning.
  • Research quality. The paper demonstrates rigorous research methods, including clear research questions, appropriate data collection and analysis techniques, and a well-structured argument.
  • Relevance to theme. The paper effectively relates its research findings to the conference theme, “Evolving Practice in Flexible Learning,” and discusses implications for future developments in the field.
  • Clarity. The paper is well-written, clear, and engaging, with appropriate citations and references.

  1. Best practice paper. 

  • Impact. The paper provides evidence of the positive impacts of the described practices on learners, institutions, or the community, showcasing tangible outcomes.
  • Applicability. The paper offers practical insights and recommendations that can be readily adopted or adapted by others in the e-learning and flexible learning community.
  • Innovation. The paper highlights innovative and effective practices in e-learning, distance, open, and flexible learning that have been successfully implemented in New Zealand.
  • Relevance to theme. The paper connects the presented best practices with the conference theme, “Evolving Practice in Flexible Learning,” and explores how these practices are evolving.
  • Clarity. The paper is well-structured, well-written, and effectively communicates the best practices, making them accessible to a broad audience.

  1. Best poster.

  • Educational significance. The poster makes a significant contribution to advancing the understanding of best practices in flexible learning, e-learning, distance and open education in New Zealand.
  • Originality. The poster presents original ideas, concepts, or approaches that offer a fresh perspective on the challenges and opportunities in flexible learning.
  • Design. The poster effectively conveys its message through visuals, graphics, and concise text, engaging viewers and clearly communicating the key points.
  • Relevance to theme. The poster aligns with the conference theme, “Evolving Practice in Flexible Learning”.

  1. People’s choice. 

The People’s choice award will be selected by conference delegates from all face-to-face and online events at the conference, including workshops and posters! The winner will receive a $50 prize voucher.

 

Scholarships 

Postgraduate student scholarships 

The Postgraduate student scholarships are sponsored by FLANZ in recognition of the importance of supporting emerging researchers as part of FLANZ’s commitment to advancing research and training for the next generation of leaders in the field of flexible learning. 

Up to four scholarships will be offered for FLANZ 2024. Each scholarship gives one year’s membership of FLANZ, free conference registration and up to $400 contribution to conference travel and accommodation, with an option to present a webinar or write a blog post later in the year.

The scholarship is open to postgraduate students enrolled in any New Zealand based tertiary institution. Applications are only accepted from applicants who are first authors, and presenting work from their postgraduate research in any of the following submission formats: Full paper, Practice paper, Poster, at the conference. 

To apply for a Postgraduate student scholarship, complete the questions in the Scholarship application form and submit it with your abstract. 

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1AiKB0g6epqdp_R_aDgSvSAcKe4J5LbrHj2osWpBO5xg/edit 

The form also requests:

  • Proof of current enrolment at a New Zealand based tertiary institution at time of application. 
  • Provide a statement of support from your supervisor(s).

Successful applications will be notified when their abstract is accepted (by 31 May). Recipients will be  expected to adhere to the Scholarship recipient expectations (see form) attend the conference and present their accepted paper / poster.

Criteria for the scholarships: 

  • Commitment to professional development. Applicants should express their commitment to continued professional development in the field of flexible learning, highlighting how the FLANZ conference will enhance their growth and contribute to their career goals.
  • Originality. The research project showcases original ideas, innovative approaches, concepts, or methodologies that contribute to the evolution of flexible learning practices in New Zealand.
  • Educational significance. The research project makes a substantial and original contribution to the field of e-learning, distance, open, and flexible learning, advancing knowledge of best practices, challenges, or innovations.
  • Research quality. The research project demonstrates a high level of quality, including well-defined research questions, appropriate and rigorous research methods, and a clear and compelling research design.
  • Impact. The research project demonstrates its potential for positive impacts on flexible learning, e-learning, distance and open education in New Zealand.
  • Relevance to theme. The research project aligns with the conference theme, “Evolving Practice in Flexible Learning”. 
  • Clarity. Applicants should effectively communicate their research through a well-structured and clearly written application that highlights the research’s significance, methodology, and findings.