Open University

[Sark79]

I was wondering if anyone has any experience of the Open University.

If anyone knows anything either first hand or from a friends who have done an OU course, your knowledge would be helpful

I was considering doing an OU course.

I gave up work a few years ago to go to  University in Glasgow. I am in the second year .  My previous job was a dead end  job where no skills where needed.

I absolutely hate the University course I am currently doing. Unfortunately it is too late to change my course as I am in the second year. For the last few months, I have really regreted giving up work.

I have been on the OU website and there are alot of courses which interest me. Particularly the language courses.

Does anyone know anything about the OU?    Is it any good?

Thanks,  I appreciate your help.

[The Truth]

OU is great especially for those for whom the traditional University set up doesn't quite work. I have only done a foundation (to get into University) many years ago but found it very interesting and relevant. They also acceptr part finished degree courses towards credits - worth giving them a call, but think long and hard before jacking a traditional University course.

[Jinky04]

Sark79 you not fancy the glasgow uni poker society? Got a cheeky fiver rebuy game on tuesday evenin, 6pm in the Bridie Library of the GUU.

My mum did a OU degree, however she already had a B Ed. and worked as a teacher so i dunno what impact it had on her career prospects

[doubleup]

I completed my degree thru OU a few years ago - so not sure if my comments are still valid.  The course material is pretty good and the exams are not too difficult as long as you have been scoring well in the course work.  I managed to pass 3 courses in one year while holding a full time job, but it was hard going particulary when essays/coursework clashed - so I wouldn't recommend doing that unless you are prepared to make it your main priority.

Downside is working on your own although there are tutors for support.

[jbsc7769]

I started a course with them about a year ago and have to say that they were very good. Their Support system is also good. The only thing you really need is self motivation as you will be sitting at a computer doing your work with the little "poker" icons on your desktop flashing at you saying "PLAY ME, PLAY ME!"

[Sark79]

Thanks everyone for the advice. I really appreciate it.

No mate I haven't been to the Uni poker society yet, I will have a look at that I think. ty   

I know what you mean about the Poker Icons on the desktop, jbsc.  They can be a nightmare when you are suppose to be writing a report about a subject you have no interset in. It is tough to say no to the 'pokerstars' icon.  It says " go on, just 1 game.....just give it a go"...lol

I will go back on the website today and have another look at the OU stuff.  Tommorow I will go and see my learning adviser at the Uni and get some more advice from him.

I appreciate the help. It is good to get others opinions about the OU. I have always seen it advertised, but never actually met someone who has done a course before.  ty..

[madasahatstand]

make sure you are totally comitted as i think a lot of the work you need to do is self directed. i find when you get into a routine of study, its much easier. i dont know how i would do with OU unless i knew other folk doing the same course. i like to discuss things through with other students. its the way i learn. i find it difficult to motivate myself to keep readin without discussion

good luck anyway but have a real hard think before you commit

mad

[Sark79]

Cheers Mad,

I have been considering this over the last few days.  I am going to meet with my tutor tommorow and come up with a plan.  Possibly do 3rd year, and then my (Hons) year with the OU. I will have to see what the OU and my Uni can suggest.

ty 

[Graham C]

I started an OU course a few years ago but I was unable to commit the time to it due to work, and also living in a small flat at the time, I never really had anywhere to study properly.

I'd do it again one day though - for my own satisfaction - but I'm not sure when that would be.

[Sark79]

I have just sent away my application for a course.  I had a chat to a guy the other day on the phone about trading in the credits already gained from previous study and he said I already have 140 points towards a 360 point degree.  I have selected a history course.   I will prefer this style of study rather than sitting in a class room, it also means I will be able to earn money at the same time.

[Heid]

I'm doing my degree via the OU, the tutorial schedule is a bit hectic on mine - one every two weeks or so in the evenings, but the course is interesting, and it's all planned very well.

Be interesting to compare experiences..

BTW OT, but I'm in an article in the Telegraph magazine today about online community...As you can tell, work is mental atm..

[snoopy1239]

Heid?!

Good luck with your degree!

[BrumBilly]

Best of luck with the decision you make Sark.

I quite like the idea of doing a module or two with the OU but the cost looks a bit prohibitive at the moment. May be something I'll look at again in the future.

[Heid]

Heid?!

Good luck with your degree!

I'll flipping need it Spoony.

Miss you all!
xx

[Sark79]

Best of luck with the decision you make Sark.

I quite like the idea of doing a module or two with the OU but the cost looks a bit prohibitive at the moment. May be something I'll look at again in the future.

thanks mate .




good luck Heid