Studying IT and Computing at the OU (Technology At The Open University)

Member Name: jmarko

Product:	Technology At The Open University
Date:	06/12/08 (42 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Top quality teaching, materials and support

Disadvantages: Addictive!

To give you some background, I already have a masters degree from a traditional university and two postgraduate qualifications from a professional training organisation.

Taking a formal qualification by distance learning might look like an easy option. I have to say, having studied for a postgraduate diploma in law by distance learning, it is anything but easy. Studying and working full time takes a level of discipline that I did not realise that I had. You need to work out how to manage your time and also how to squeeze every extra minute out of your day - travelling on public transport, for instance, is not travelling, it is study time!

So, when I decided to take a science degree (IT), I thought I would take a look at the Open University and I thought I knew, roughly, what I was getting in to - a decent work load, assignments and a couple of tutorials.

I am currently studying my first course with the OU - M150 Data, Computing and Information. When you sign up, you get a mailing - mine included 5 well written manuals and various other support materials. Also, it included a CD-ROM containing some Windows software.

As a Mac user that was a little irritating but there are Mac alternatives out there and there are OU Mac user support groups - so it was not too much of a problem. On the upside, the OU recently announced that it is going to try to move to a more 'platform neutral' position going forward. An excellent development.

Back to the bundle. When I saw the 5 manuals, I thought to myself 'I can cope with that. A 30 point course, 5 manuals, 9 months. Seems fair'.

Then I started reading. The course includes 15 manuals, 3 CD ROMS, online materials, 6 tutorials, online conferences and the support of a tutor at your beck and call. All for under £400 for a 30 point course (price correct for the 2008/9 presentation).

For a BSc (Hons), you would normally be looking at 360 points and course prices vary.

We have had a couple of tutorials and our tutor is extremely knowledgable and helpful. The online systems are easy to use and thorough. Assignments help to reinforce the reading and also the programming elements of the course.

The OU gives an excellent level of support to its students and provides top quality materials. If there is a problem with them, it is that they can become a little addictive. I have already signed up for my next 30 point course and also decided which ones I want to take next year.

For quality of teaching and learning, the OU not only comes out on top but it also manages to give you other study and time management skills that other courses simply do not and cannot provide. It is no wonder that employers rate Open University qualifications so highly.

Summary: An excellent way to study for work and fun.