Open University www.open.ac.uk Reviews
Latest Reviews
★★★★☆
“Expect to work, it is a university!”
Written on: 14/06/2013
I have done now two modules and doing my third. I am so far very happy with my tutors and their support. But it is a lot of work, I think people should realize it is a university so it comes with a great amount of studying. But then again, I am doing it to gain knowledge and eventually a degree. Compared to other universities it is cheaper, but true, it isn't free. But I think people are willing to invest for their education, at least if they are taking it seriously. Me - I am glad with the... (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“Lack of Support”
Written on: 11/06/2013
I joined the OU a few years ago. Whilst things are generally fine up to level 2 courses, support and tutorials, on level 3 courses the support is not face to face but in cyber space and no classroom based teaching. Hmmmm alot of money for poor structure and lack of common sense approach to students. Come OU it not like solving the unified field theory is it??? Harder courses more tutorials or don't do them. Very disappointed......very! PS I have an honours degree already and find some of... (read more)
★★★★★
“Gave me my life back after poor schooling”
Written on: 14/05/2013
Like many little people in this country I was educated to work in a factory. We where taught or often battered in to slavishly obeying the rules however illogical they may be. Any attempt to we made to develop our individual personalities was crushed on the altar of maintaining good order. I sadly and not unexpectedly failed to secure the required qualifications to go in to further education. At the age of 35 I decided my time had come and I began a Bsc with this distinguished... (read more)
★★★★★
“Happy student”
Written on: 05/05/2013 by martin82 (1 review written)
I'm just about to finish my MSc in computing for commerce. To be honest, it's quite surprising to see so many negative reviews here; my experience has been exactly opposite: tutors were helpful, materials mostly pretty good and compared to other options I had, this was the best value for money. Before starting, make sure that you understand the time needed - this was the biggest problem for me; demanding job and a young family forced me to postpone the MSc thesis. Overall, I can only... (read more)
★★★☆☆
“OU issues of Tutors and Marking remain the same”
Written on: 27/04/2013 by SouthEastLondoner (1 review written)
Just reading the reviews here and it appears that the OU are still pretty arrogant in their attitude towards tutor quality and marking. I did my Honours degree during the 2000s, when it was a heck of a lot cheaper, and many of the issues on this review site are the same as I experienced. Tutors: I had some excellent tutors who really took the role seriously and were genuinely interested in the students and helping them achieve. Marks were always accompanied by constructive feedback.... (read more)
Currentstudent13's Response to SouthEastLondoner's Review
Written on: 18/06/2013
Inconsistency of marking! Indeed. I've just changed modules and therefore tutor, and exactly the same essay style that scored me high marks previously is now, it seems, not acceptable. Worse still, there's no real feedback with this tutor,just comments to the effect that something is wrong and would be 'better' if done per her suggestion. Different, sure, but better? Perhaps in her opinion. I think a lot of the low-level tutors assume they are dealing with children. The good news? In a couple of months I get to leave her feedback! :-)
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★★☆☆☆
“I am sick and tired of the OU”
Written on: 02/04/2013 by Marita158
I have been studying with the OU for three years now, and I am appalled with the way it works. Whilst I had really good marks with some tutors and taken their advice on board, when I apply the same advice on other essays It takes me no-where, in fact I seemed to have gone downhill, even though I have introduced further research and spent more time readying supporting material (not given by the OU). Moreover, the scores given in EMAs or final exams are as authoritarian, if not more, than the... (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“wrong course”
Written on: 20/03/2013 by terry78
I explained during a phone call to them what I wanted to study. The person I spoke to said it was really good that I knew what I wanted to do & suggested the course I should take. After starting it I soon realised it was not the right one. I wanted to study Mechanical Engineering & the course they suggested would be suitable is more a Civil Engineering course. I have tried to contact Learner Support & have had no luck. A total waste of time. I understand now why people laughed when I said I... (read more)
Grotty's Response to terry78's Review
Written on: 26/03/2013
I have to agree with this review,I found the OU person on the phone most unhelpful and quite rude,the phone call cost me a lot of money as I don't have a landline and they suggest a course totally unsuitable for me,I wanted to do maths and English,instead I ended up doing humanities and as for learning support they are useless,they only think in an intellectual so can't understand anyone who doesn't have their level of education in other words they are incapable of putting things in layman's terms.
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C_A87's Response to terry78's Review
Written on: 23/04/2013
Would you have contacted a traditional university and asked what to study? The OU is a chartered university & offers higher education level qualifications, just by a different lteaching method. At traditional universities you apply through UCAS and are expected to know the qualification you wish to register on no questions asked - I think people rely on the OU for things that they really should be researching thoroughly themselves, because the OU offer a more interactive service. I understand that you have received information, but surely it's your responsibility as a learner to ensure that the qualification you sign up for suits your personal end goals? Whilst the OU should shoulder some responsibility if you have been mis-advised, you need to take more responsibility as the learner. A degree is a hue commitment after all...
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★★★★★
“I have been very happy with the OU, I enjoy learning...”
Written on: 16/03/2013 by godders7 (1 review written)
I have been very happy with the OU, I enjoy learning independently though and have not needed much support. Also I qualify for financial assistance as a low earner and transitional fees so to me the main cost has been the time involved. The module texts have been to generally high standards. I am doing engineering BEng (honours). I would 100% recommend the OU if you qualify for financial support or if they bring back the old fees. I would never be able to complete my degree at the new prices... (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“Very poor vaule for money. ”
Written on: 01/03/2013
Awful experience start to finish. Tutor made it very clear that we were only to call her between 9pm and 10pm, weekdays, if you didn't call it was clear that she was busy, that she had just out her child to bed and didn't really want to talk to you. Tuition is all on the forums which are dominated by a few students and you are quickly made to feel stupid for asking a simple question. I really enjoyed my BA at a bricks and mortar uni, and I am sad to say that studying at the OU was no... (read more)
Danger_Dave's Comment
Written on: 13/05/2013
I completely agree with this review as I am currently studying for a second degree in engineering with the O.U and I can honestly say that the support that I got from a bricks and mortar uni was far greater than that of the O.U.
Here are my gripes with the O.U.
The marking scheme with the O,U is variable as hell. Every tutor seems to have a different way they want their TMA (assessment). What works for may get you heavily penalised by another.
Some tutors can be absolutely poor and ill mannered. From my experience you are not allowed to debate a point that is different from what the tutor says, even though you can prove your point,as has happened to me when I wrote about something in my own field of engineering. I do not know of an appeals procedure..
Although I was told that tutorials for my current module would be in my hometown of Dundee, the nearest one was in fact in Leeds and the tutor would not host an online tutorial. And he cant be bothered to explain anything. If I know that then I would have picked a different module as this one is outwith my normal field.
All you basically get when you pay for a module is a couple of books and maybe a CD. The software on the CD may not work if you have a 64bit O.S.
The forums can be dominated by some rather weird navel gazing individuals. A group of individuals were complaining that they only got 90 odd percent for their TMA's, one only got 94%, oh the horror! Some are bitchy, brown tongues. If you do a module then I recommend that you find a support group for it on Facebook as some do exist.
Also, with the cost shooting up for the O.U modules I would strongly recommend anyone to look elsewhere, maybe even by doing night classes or part time at a local uni. Some Uni's offer distance learning which is worth looking into.
My first O.U module was about 8 years ago and didn't cost much, I think that it was a ten point level one, in maths and was around £60. Back then I got a lot of books, a tutor who phoned weekly and plenty of nearby tutorials. Since going back to the O.U to study for a second degree. In the three years that I have been there I have only had two local tutorials and never had a phone call from a tutor.
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★☆☆☆☆
“A useless piece of paper.”
Written on: 06/02/2013 by claxton71
Having dilently completed 300 points over five years, I spoke to the OU about putting my studies on hold in order to do an MA elsewhere. When I returned two years later to complete my award and to make it an honours degree, the fees had risen from around 600 pounds to 2500 pounds. (Those who study at the OU will probably understand this predicament, that information and more importantly advice is hard to come by.) This is now out of reach for me, thus, although I recognise what I did with... (read more)
Kisscass's Response to claxton71's Review
Written on: 28/02/2013
I'm surprised that you didn't get any emails last year about the changes in funding. They should have contacted you about applying for transitional funding, to ensure that you wouldn't have to pay the new fees to complete your degree. If you weren't contacted, I would appeal and demand to be put on the transitional fee plan. Don't give up, it would be a shame to have wasted those 300 points.
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Showing 1 - 10 of 95 Reviews
★★☆☆☆
“Prepare to go the extra mile if you want a decent grade”
Written on: 26/11/2012
I got a first class honours degree with the OU. The only reason for this was because I embarked on independent study. I supplemented their teaching and resources with my own. I spent hundreds of pounds on extra text books. I had to go way beyond anything they offered in terms of texts and tuition. If you want a first be prepared to be a truly independent learner. What they offer simply does not cut it. (read more)
Garygiles's Comment
Written on: 20/12/2012
While studying for my MSc I found the supervisor allocated to me to be very unsupportive. She was completely unavailable for 3 months (while she took a break to do some consultancy work). When I complained the OU refushed see this as an issue (would a reasonable organisation act in this way?). Is this real value for money? I'll let you make your own mind up.... but from my experience it was a complete waste of money, time, effort and stress.
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★★☆☆☆
“Photography course (T189) - poor value for money”
Written on: 26/11/2012
Overall I felt that the course was poor value for money. The best thing about the course was the requirement to upload 10 new photographs each week for peer review. This really concentrated the mind in terms of trying to take better pictures each week. Seeing and reviewing the photographs submitted by other course participants was also a great stimulus. The video tutorials for Photoshop Elements were also very good, and extremely useful in helping develop core skills in what can be a... (read more)
★★★★★
“Apart from the 5 star rating there are still problems”
Written on: 23/11/2012
Hi, I have completed a first degree and a masters with the OU and have been very happy throughout. Unfortunately recently I have had to withdraw from my EdD and I now see that at this level the University is much more selective. This is inconsistent with the ethos of the Universilty, I therefore raise this as a question for the VC. Of course we need to qualify, but at the same time there are people out there with wonderful ideas for whom the only hope of publication is in an open... (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“The Open University Accuses You of Lying”
Written on: 10/11/2012 by Scottjones2012
tried to study with the OU although they accused me of lying about my income even though i could prove it they are an absolute joke - DO NOT STUDY WITH THE OU you will be wasting your time and effort!!!! (read more)
★★☆☆☆
“Too expensive”
Written on: 05/11/2012
Prices for OU courses rocketed to a ridiculous level last year. Luckily, I qualified for transitional fees for the final year of my module because, if I had not, there is no way I would have been able to complete the course. I wouldn't recommend anyone to do an OU course while their prices remain at the current astronomical level. It's old style 'education for the rich'. (read more)
★★★☆☆
“Having studied law and gained a First with the OU, I...”
Written on: 18/10/2012
Having studied law and gained a First with the OU, I decided to an accountancy course. The quality of the materials was absolutely atrocious in comparison to the law courses. The course authors couldn't even produce the correct answers to the their own questions in the books, and each unit had a substantial errata list. The books also appeared at times to have been written by someone for whom English was not a first language. There has also been a significant shift towards putting... (read more)
Oufatigue's Comment
Written on: 23/11/2012
I'm about to withdraw from an OU Yr3 module
(a) because the amount of reading, if you actually read everything specified and make proper notes means 16-20 hrs a week is a ridiculous underestimate. I've been doing 5-6 very long days a week and simply don't have the time
(b) because of serious let's call it 'divergence of opinion' with the tutor.
I'm not new to OU study and last year completed 2 60-point modules simultaneously-a Yr2 and Yr3-though admittedly the Yr2 course was mainly revision for me.
I am thinking of transferring to law. I'm glad to see your review of the materials. But I'd also be very grateful if you could tell me how much reading there is (number of pages if you have it). And what you felt was realistic in hrs/wk for someone who likes to study thoroughly to achieve high grades rather than just scrape by.
Many thanks.
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★☆☆☆☆
“The biggest problem with OU is the lack of support...”
Written on: 10/10/2012
The biggest problem with OU is the lack of support from the staff who are paid to support you! Other student offer much more help and advice. Like another reviewer mentioned, I am now in my 4th year simply going through the motions to get my course finished because if i pack in I'll have no qulification and be £2000 out of pocket. I would not recommend OU to anyone but unfortunatly due to having to work full time to support my family it was my only option. Also on my last module the... (read more)
★★☆☆☆
“OU not worth the money now the fees have gone up”
Written on: 02/10/2012
OU not worth the money now the fees have gone up. Tutor support not good enough as very limited. Main problem is that to get good TMA marks you have to keep to the script ie the cource books; in effect its 'A' level type work no chance to explore new ideas and discuss. The conculsion has always to read the OU knows best! (read more)
★★☆☆☆
“Marking Lottery”
Written on: 21/09/2012
The continuing complaint I am hearing from many OU students is how ridiculously inconsistent the marking system is. You can get absolutely brilliant grades for all of the course work but then apply the same standard of work in an exam and get ridiculously low marks with no explanation as to why. In my case I did a couple of level two modules, in my first module I averaged 85% for my tmas (tutor marked assignments) and ended up with a pass two, which equates to a B. Yet on another level two... (read more)
Freedomspeech's Comment
Written on: 09/11/2012
Well - from the inside I can say this.......
The OU, like all other universities, needs to make money. They reckon that if a student fails and assignment/TMA then they may well leave. This being the case, they are desperate to make sure that nobody fails a TMA (particularly regional managers).
The Regional Managers (who are 'graded' on their ability to maintain student numbers) therefore try to make sure marks are high. They can't do this with exams - they are marked centrally and they have no control over them. So they try to boost all marks they do have control over. Hence the differences in marks between TMAs and exams.
For my money, I would base your 'realistic' marks more on the exam-type marks than the TMAs - they aren't rigged!
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Unime's Comment
Written on: 12/11/2012
Hi,
I agree with you.
In essence you can be getting the highest grades in your tutor group but because the OU examination board is working from a completely different hymn sheet, you can do everything your tutor tells you but easily end up with bad examination grades.
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★★★★★
“OU is GREAT”
Written on: 29/08/2012 by dunners (1 review written)
I have attended a brick uni and the OU. I actually preferred the OU and felt that I was able to retain more knowledge about the subjects I was studying. I suppose it may have to be suited to someone who can take up the learning themselves as a brick uni can almost spoon feed you. I am an employer as well and I would prob look more favourably on a candidate with an OU degree as opposed to a candidate with a brick uni degree with the exception of the top unis. If anyone is thinking about... (read more)
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Showing 11 - 20 of 95 Reviews
★★★★★
“Fantastic experience”
Written on: 24/08/2012 by aspen123
I have studied at a red brick and obtained a Bsc hons. Studying with the open university is a different experience. success relies on hard work more so than at a red brick , i managed over 5years to obtain a second bsc and then three years on got a masters. while my education at red brick was excellent the open university was better. As result of the excellent materials and fantastic support I will be studying for a Phd at cambridge thanks OU You can do it too! (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“Appeals Process OU”
Written on: 20/08/2012
My wife applied to undertake the Nursing degree, she was supported by her employer and undertook the interview. Prior to the application there was an issue with the date her maths course results would be returned. A member of staff at Yorkshire OU telephoned to say she would be ineligible for selection for 2012. We took issue with this, and she was afforded an interview. A few weeks after the interview she received the news 'unsuccessful' with the reason given; she did not meet the... (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“Bring back the old OU!”
Written on: 19/08/2012
I started a degree with the OU and found my level 1 studies to be interesting and good value for money. I found my level 2 experience to be a different matter. In my opinion, the tutors took too long to reply to queries and on one module, the tutor initially refused to answer my questions as I "wasn't on her tutor group list". This issue was later rectified but made for a bad start to the module. Many of the tutors seem to have jobs in other universities and use the OU to top up their... (read more)
★★★☆☆
“Generally positive, mixed feelings overall.”
Written on: 11/08/2012
There are a lot of plusses about the OU - very helpful customer service staff; highly absorbing materials; a structure to the courses that is both easy to understand and segment; strong community support. The only thing that has let it down in my eyes is the academic ability of the tutors. Some of them, well, aren't very capable. These may well know their subject, but often aren't up to the job when it comes to other aspects of the job: such as a proper understanding of the vagaries and... (read more)
Peony's Comment
Written on: 11/09/2012
I agree with this; I feel some of the tutors do not know the course materials either and some are inept, seem to not understand what you are writing about and lacking knowledge of the course materials being applied etc. But I think the reason is, that tutors only allow so much time per assignment to mark it, so sometimes appear to have not read some point or other in your work, or have skimmed it and so missed it. I have had similar experiences to you.
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★☆☆☆☆
“not worth it.”
Written on: 10/08/2012
Would i recommend the OU against a Red brick university, NO. Having attended both, the OU mark 10% harder, you have to achieve equal in TMA and EMA/Exam to achieve the grade. There is not consistant marking system, if you achieve high standards throughout TMA and do an EMA they do not match and there is No explanation only we dont make mistakes or remarking or help. Not worth it for the money spent, when atleast you have a fair chance in a red brick. (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“Advice and criteria don't match! ”
Written on: 06/08/2012
Throughout the course my tutor made errors in marking, which meant that I had little relevant feedback throughout the whole course. Despite devoting my free time to the course I have come out with a grade which is significantly below my academic average before studying with the Open Universtiy. The materials were, at times, too basic, which was perhaps a little misleading for the responses they required in the exam. The exam advice they gave us were at odds with the the criteria in the exam... (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“Really dont know how it is rated a "top university".”
Written on: 29/07/2012
I would not recommend anyone to study at the open university. A completely faceless organisation that do not care about their students. You really are a number at this university and are treated as such. The tutors are really unhelpful and it is probably the worst place to study if you have a disability. In short study somewhere else! (read more)
Peony's Comment
Written on: 11/09/2012
They rate themselves as a top university based on particular surveys they undertake.
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Mollyibm's Comment
Written on: 13/09/2012
You can not criticize so generally everything. I will summarize only one course, but generally I agree with your opinion.
Imagine a woman (60 years old). Our woman cannot find work. OU jointly with FAS offers women the opportunity to learn new skills. (?)
According to their suggestions, she can gain new skills and become a ballerina. “There are no formal entry requirements to study this degree.” Unfortunately, during the course she broke legs. Oops! Nobody’s fault.
Summarize - The best machine for making money.
I am sorry for any mistake. English is my second language
Best Regards
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★★☆☆☆
“the amount of Paper work is ridiculous and it's all in...”
Written on: 20/07/2012
the amount of Paper work is ridiculous and it's all in various places on their website. You are expected to study on your own which is not a problem but you are made to feel bad if you ask questions (read more)
★★★★★
“The OU is the best!”
Written on: 14/07/2012 by deano251
I feel i should right this as i am really surprised to see so many bad comments and low ratings about the OU. I am 3 years into the Beng(hons) and it is very hard work, especially working full time. I have found the materials first class, some modules havn't been to my liking but I have to cover many aspects of engineering. I think a lot of the disgruntled people on here want to be spoon fed by a tutor, that's not what OU is about, its about hard work, self motivation and discipline, that... (read more)
Guest's Response to deano251's Review
Written on: 14/07/2012
I agree. Studying with Open University is tough, very tough. You certainly aren't spoon fed by tutors, the contact is minimal and it can be lonely at times, therefore requires discipline. Often students are working and (like me) bringing up a family too. I do miss the contact, a conventional Uni would provide however, the high costs and low flexibility of courses around work and home comittments makes the OU a great way to gain a qualification. For those who haven't studied and score the OU low, have no idea the hard work the student have to put in!
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Avala's Response to deano251's Review
Written on: 16/07/2012
I am also studying for a few years now but do not think the new fees of £2500 are good value at all. Much of it is available free online from other sources so considering you are studying at home with little tutor support, I am not sure what you are paying for apart from the degree certificate at the end (assuming you get there). Course material is good...that you would expect from a long established distance learning organisation of this size, BUT it is far from excellent. In many cases. I often have to use online sources, freely available, to make up for some of the not so well taught material. As I say, this free material is abundant now and often excellent. A fair amount is better than OU material.
The new fee structure at £2500 per 60 point module is not good value in my opinion. Less than brick uni but what are you getting for that..a few books and often in my experience extremely slow responding tutors that can take up to a month to mark your TMA's and a week or so to reply to any query. Clearly OU is p/t work and the OU student is the bottom of the priority list!! Not good or satisfactory at all in my view.
So in summary, the OU degree is very worthy, but it is more to do with the individual student's effort than the quality of the OU as an organisation. Certainly not value under the new fees. You really are just paying for the issue the certificate nowadays more than anything as the knowledge is all out there readily for free.
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Unime's Response to deano251's Review
Written on: 22/09/2012
I do not like to be spoon fed but if throughout my course work I get excellent grades I would presume that by applying the same knowledge in the exam at the end of a module I would get a good grade. The problem I have with the OU is that there can be a complete misalignment between what is taught during a module and what is expected in an end of course exam. It's as if the examiners are marking a completely different module from what's taught by the tutors and text books.
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Hughwp's reply to Unime's Comment
Written on: 02/12/2012
It's important to realise there can be a number of resons for lower exam marks one can be be memory, another that you refer to the Material whilst doing the TMA to get better results. A Psychologist told me that optimal understand is to read units and then do TMAs in a set time without referring to course material, this is not optimal for a high TMA mark but helps when confronted with the exam. I have yet to see an OU exam that is significantly different to the assessed material during the course.
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★★★★★
“Superb organisation trying to offer degrees open to all”
Written on: 28/06/2012 by gwidge
I have studied a certificate, diploma and MBA through the Open University and am now studying an undergraduate science degree. I have found the course materials of the highest quality being a combination of books, audio, software and DVDs. Books are updated every few years with latest theory and access is given via the library to almost all journals. The MathCAD Software used in my latest course is v14; a modern 2010 version, not the very latest but stable. Tutors are generally from... (read more)
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Showing 21 - 30 of 95 Reviews
★☆☆☆☆
“DON'T ENROL On OU COURSES...they will withdraw the...”
Written on: 12/06/2012
Very Disappointed with the OU. I completed an OU degree in psychology and nearly attained the Masters but they have withdrawen the final module that I need to complete. In essence after spending over €10,000 with the OU I cannot complete my Masters or any other OU Masters. They have provided little support and guidance on this and everyone appears to pass the book. There is no-one to speak directly too and I find myself going around in circles. The faceless nature of the open... (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“Awful - but possibly depends on your tutor. ”
Written on: 21/05/2012 by Dollie1811 (1 review written)
When I started studying the short course of Starting with Law, lasting about six months, I got the books and everything and thought that I was going to very much enjoy what I had to do. However, I have found my tutor to be rude and unresponsive to issues - whilst she has been happy to end each email with "do not hesitate to email me with any questions you may have", when there was actually a big problem with the module I had to wait nine days to get an email response from her - when I... (read more)
Guest's Response to Dollie1811's Review
Written on: 03/06/2012
Sorry you had a bad experience. It sounds as though your tutor had a lot on and didn't listen to your request as you had stated but got back to you in a way that suited her at the time. Also it sounds as though the marking down was due to the assessment process making demands on your own perceptions rather than showing understanding of text based course knowledge. It does seem as though your perception has been soured but that shouldn't alter the way you feel about how you have been treated. I understand where you are coming from as I have had tutors who have basically told me to go and have a baby, to work in a position that was less challenging and to get married! And I managed to study at postgraduate level after all those unempathic unsconstructive advice. I know what it is like to have bad tutors. It is a shame that a few rotten apples can ruin the lot and tarnish the image of others in an organisation but they can and do unfortunately. Hope you don't give up with the OU as some of their tutors really make some traditional universities look red faced not just red bricked.
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Peony's Response to Dollie1811's Review
Written on: 11/09/2012
This is my experience too, tutors seem to be looking to mark down rather than looking at the academic content of assignments. My husband did an MBA with the OU a few years ago, and one tutor told the entire class he had been instructed by the OU to mark down students assignments, but he did not agree with that. I do not know why he was told to mark down, it seems odd, but I have encountered tutors who appear to be just nit picking at my work, rather than discussing the academic content.
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★☆☆☆☆
“Do not study IT particularly Digital technologies”
Written on: 17/05/2012
I find it upsetting that I am writing this evaluation of the OU. I am a student of the University ( 6 years +). I have two degrees already ((BA) one from a mains stream university the second (BCL) from the OU. My four years of Law were amazing, great tutors, well informed and interested in their students. I have this academic year started IT with the OU, poorly organized and rude tutors, who sit on their laurels and come to tutorials with nothing prepared, expecting students to run the... (read more)
Peony's Comment
Written on: 11/09/2012
I have for years (I am somewhat deaf) been requesting of the OU for tutors to provide notes at tutorials, but the staff do not have authority to make tutors have notes or even any handouts. I find it bizarre that tutors have no notes, including at level 1 courses (where it might be a person's first experience of the OU) and level 3, where you especially could do with some notes.
In contrast with this experience at the OU, I went on a basic web course at my local college. The tutor there always had sheaths of notes at every session, was on hand for questions and always very helpful, and you could even telephone or email him from home when you were not on the course, I was very impressed with this super service. Needless to say, most of us scored over 90% with this super tutor.
The Ou do not seem bothered about student's performances, I find this odd. They are just not interested at all. One thing that would aid with performance are a few simple notes, a necessity for people like me who cannot hear!
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Twitcher001's Comment
Written on: 30/04/2013
I would say when the tutors are bad they are very bad. When they are good, they really are. Sadly, through my experience, I'd say it's a 50:50 ratio of good to bad which isn't good enough.
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★★★★☆
“2nd year with the OU studying Law”
Written on: 14/05/2012
I was very surprised reading these reviews and it seems to be many negative reviews on pircing, materials, support etc. i think its depending on the level of study, tutor, and course you choose will be a different experience for everyone. you certainly need to be motivated to do this course and it can be lonely at times- i would like to offer my opinion I started at the bottom with the starting with law course - this course was excellent and challenging with two small children but i owe my... (read more)
Arcanesolutions's Comment
Written on: 12/09/2012
Forty years ago, to study law, you had to be able to write good English. Clearly, no longer.
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★★★★★
“They help you achieve your potential”
Written on: 17/04/2012
At school, uni and postgraduate level i was constantly underestimated. The OU takes away barriers to your learning. The resources enable you to learn using all your senses. I found them to be fantastic. Very creative, up to date and well researched. I've studied with them for 5 years now and not one tutor has imposed their limitations on my progress nor discouraged me from continuing to study. Their comments have all been positive, informative and very constructive. They clearly want you... (read more)
★★★★☆
“Great courses for full time employed”
Written on: 17/04/2012
just finished my first module and onto the next one. Was unsure about starting education again, as doing night classes previously lead to being tired and stressed all the time. However with the Open Uni you can pick it up whenever you want, and are not restricted to scheduled classes. Sometimes I can get a bit lost with the work, but if you write on the forum you are sure to get a fast reply from one of the tutors. Another great thing about the Open Uni is that all info is online, whether... (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“Stay clear from ou if you have any sence.”
Written on: 14/04/2012 by Samantha07 (1 review written)
If you study with the ou they expect you to have some degree of learning before the course so if you have been out of studying for a while then don't bother as they are not very helpful. Ou post you loads of paper work and books then expect you to get on with it all. If you don't get it right your made to sound like a fool. The ou website is atrocious, it's like rummaging through a boot fair to find the one thing you need, the website is not straight foward at all. Studying is hard work on... (read more)
Kkitson's Response to Samantha07's Review
Written on: 27/04/2012
After reading this review from Samantha07 I couldn't just let this very unjust appraisal go without making comment. OU Openings courses smooth the transition between secondary education and HE. The OU Tutors treat pupils with kid gloves at this level and the approach is very successful. Mature students are as welcome as any to the OU. Course documentation is well strcutured, includes study calendar and Study guide, most also available electronically on your course study website, which each pupil is given access to on course commencement. The OU website has had a revamp, I find my way around easy enough. You are certainly not made to look a fool if you fail, the tutors do their utmost to help students. Any detailed website would appear overpowering to a new visitor, but there are plenty of people to help you find your way around (upto 22,000 at last count). Agreed studing is hard work on your own but you don't really expect an easy ride for a degree do you? The materials and resources make it manageable, theydon't get in the way. I have seen some redbrick documentation and it is not as polished as the OU stuff. I would expect that sort of comment from a redbrick uni the OU are in competition with them for business. I can't think why it would be necessary to split undergrad study between OU and redbrick. Once one has graduated from OU the degree is perfectly acceptable entrance to a redbrick masters. Perhaps you need to reassess your concerns. The Ou really is a worthwhile effort and I feel privileged to have studied and continue studying, since 2005. At the age of 58 the work is not too challenging. A masters will be on the cards in the next couple of years, and no huge debt at the end.
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Guest's Response to Samantha07's Review
Written on: 04/05/2012
Like Kkitson, I had to post a reply to this craziness. First of all, with regards to expected levels of knowledge, everywhere you look in the prospectus suggests starting with an openings or short course, (around gcse level) if you don't feel confident enough to start with a 30 or 60 point course. There's even online tests in the form of, 'Are you ready for....' to help you gauge your own ability and confidence. The OU provide way more opportunities for you to bring your knowledge up to the required standard than any brick university would.
As for the 'loads of paperwork' you receive, I have found all of my textbooks so far to be engaging, relevant, modern, very well written and an absolute pleasure to study. You are definitely not just 'expected to get on with it all', your tutor is always a phone call or email away should you have any problems, and there is almost always a large active Facebook group of other students for each module, so contact with other students studying exactly what you are is always a few clicks away. Of course there is a large element of self motivation and management, this is distance learning after all! Taking responsibility for your own learning is, however a hugely advantageous skill to aquire, and is wonderfully satisfying, making those achievements all the more fulfilling. Being able to manage your study and motivate yourself to success gives you a massive advantage when entering into a career post-study.
In short, a degree with the OU can be a rich and fulfilling experience, so long as you have a genuine thirst for knowledge and enjoyment of your subject. I think those criterion apply wherever you choose to study.
I hope anyone 'with any sence' -(sense!) reading Samanthas' review doesn't take it too seriously, as the Open University is a gem. I also hope Samantha finds something she enjoys, and that is as fulfilling as the rest of us find the Open University.
Ps. In the interests of background information, I am 23, with a young family, in my first year of a natural sciences degree (chem) planning on completing a PGCE (with the OU!) and becoming a secondary school science teacher. Wish me luck!
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Hannahflorence's Response to Samantha07's Review
Written on: 08/05/2012
Well considering you spelt SENSE as "sence" I don't see why anyone would value your opinion
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Hw4257's reply to Hannahflorence's Comment
Written on: 02/03/2013
Eould just like to stress that the learner is posting her own personal review. And to make remarks about spelling errors isnt helpful. We need to respect another persons point of view, as we all have different experiences. Not every review on here is a positive one.
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Annajive1's Response to Samantha07's Review
Written on: 09/05/2012
'you're', not 'your'!
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Guest's Response to Samantha07's Review
Written on: 29/06/2012
No, she was correct, it was 'your'. 'You're' means 'you are'.
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Annajive1's Response to Samantha07's Review
Written on: 30/06/2012
No, no.....it's 'YOU'RE'!.... and I quote "If you don't get it right your made to sound like a fool"
.....seems Samantha07 is not the only one who should go back to High School.
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Peony's Response to Samantha07's Review
Written on: 11/09/2012
I agree, the OU is not what it makes itself out to be.
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★★★★☆
“OU (Computing)”
Written on: 04/03/2012 by sqlinjection
The OU is great if you are willing to put the time in. This is distance learning, you are required to work largely independently through the course books, examples and exercises, although you can expect between 4 and 6 online or classroom tutorials per module. In later courses you will only get support if you actively seek it, but if you do it is prompt and clear. Additionally there is a always module forum where assistant lecturers provide online support. All but one of the nine tutors... (read more)
Twitcher001's Response to sqlinjection's Review
Written on: 30/04/2013
I'm currently studying computing with the OU and sadly, I can not entirely agree with you. I'm at level 2 and I agree with your comments about level 1 totally. Though my tutor for TU100 was unavailable a lot of the time and a times he ignored my emails.
My java modules at level 2 are great. VB and web development though, I feel have a lot to make up for in comparison. I'm on transitional fees so I'm quite lucky. I wouldn't pay the new fees for this degree.
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★☆☆☆☆
“No support, outdated resources”
Written on: 12/02/2012
Well I had read good and bad reviews of the OU, but thought I would give it a shot. Initial communication is good, and the level of support seems impressive, however, once you pay your fees, all that seems to dissapear. The resources are copied from old cassette tapes to CDs, and are clearly well over twenty years old, the software sent out was made in 1987! Once the course begins you are inundated with books, all good if you learn from reading alone, but there is no other methods used, the... (read more)
Guest's Comment
Written on: 20/02/2012
I have only just started Bachelor of Laws W100. Personally in any study the tutor is probably the most important factor. Your experience of tutorials sounds poor, however my Tutor KR is well-informed, articulate and patient and knows her subject; for me, crucial at this early stage. I feel comfortable and supported. Regarding resources I agree some elements are outdated and a section relating to the U.S seemed unnecessary and irrelevant. Like you I also enjoy research so will find it a little frustrating being penalised if I do that - so I won't! On the other hand research is time consuming so there are benefits.
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Alena.sliapniova's Comment
Written on: 24/05/2012
I completely disagree with your comments. I did LLB, got first class. Haven't had a single negative experience. Communication with all my tutors was great, as well as tutorials. Study materials were excellent, all materials on Levels 2 and 3 are published by the College of Law, a couple of months before they are sent out, other resource books are also the latest editions.
I still remember my W100 experience (I graduated in December 2011). W100 is only an introductory course and is very different to W200,201,300 and 301. It teaches you to write essays and answer problem questions rather than law. I didn't find it very interesting.
If you are passionate about law, you will find it becoming more and more exciting as you progress. The degree ceremony last month was another wonderful and unforgettable experience, as well as Cherie Blair's inspiring lecture for OU students in September 2011. She is a visiting Professor at the OU and was saying some wonderful words about the OU and its students. Good luck with your studies, I hope you find it as enjoyable (and sometimes tough of course) as me.
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★★★★★
“A degree well worth pursuing”
Written on: 08/02/2012 by VEE_BOB02 (2 reviews written)
Having been to 4 universities, I can say the OU is up there at the top - for distance learning and a good academic level. It takes a lot of self-discipline to maintain the effort but the quality of the modules is high and there is support. Of course sometimes it can feel a bit lonely but that's part and parcel of the experience. I studied 4 modules at Master's level. The first two I thoroughly enjoyed. I only had problems with the third (no longer running so defunct and not an issue). I... (read more)
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Showing 31 - 40 of 95 Reviews
★★★★★
“The OU is Awesome”
Written on: 06/02/2012
The OU is fantastic if you can work independently and manage your time. Everyone else will need to go to a face to face university to be spoon fed. The OU is not an easy ride, and you should see that from the high standards most graduates achieve. I have found that tutors are generally supportive and get back to you very quickly (varies per unit). If you have a complaint forward it onto the course team and it will soon be resolved. I reiterate, only take it if you are serious about... (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“Avoid PGCE”
Written on: 22/01/2012
\"WARNING\" IF YOU DON'T SPEAK TWO LANGUAGES UP TO AL DON'T BOTHER DOING COURSE BECAUSE YOU WON'T FIND WORK WITH ONE LANGUAGE AND A LITTLE BIT OF KNOWLEDGE FROM ANOTHER ONE. FEE IS NO LONGER PAID BY THE STUDENTS FINANCE. SO IF YOU PAY IT AND DON'T FIND WORK BECAUSE MANY PLACES DON'T TOUCH OU STUDENTS YOU ARE OUT OF POCKET. The PGCE course cost more than attending a normal university by the time you have downloaded all the Modules, readings and other necessary paperwork. Other universities... (read more)
★★★★★
“The best of distance learning out there”
Written on: 16/01/2012
The Open University was a life changer for me. I would recommend it to anyone seeking for good distance learning education. (read more)
★★★★★
“Excellent university for the motivated student”
Written on: 08/01/2012
I have studied at Manchester university to obtain a Bsc in physics, I have studied with the open university and gained two Msc's science and management. The course material and tutors are on a par with manchester. The degrees are excellent value for oney and as a direct result of obtaining the degree from the Open university while working I have been given a pay rise and promotion. I work for a large technology based company, within which the Open university is well respected. I would... (read more)
★★★★★
“OU is great and definitely not for lazy and stupid idiots”
Written on: 14/11/2011 by alena.sliapniova (1 review written)
I've just completed my last module and am expecting to graduate with LLB(Hons)Law first-class degree. I have enjoyed every minute of it. I am proud to be an OU graduate. I can tell you it is not for lazy and stupid idiots as AnnoyedOUer suggests (anyway, I wouldn's trust an opinion of a person who studied in the OU for two months!!!). You need to be self-motivated and self-disciplined and be able to work independently to succeed in distance education. Its not for everyone. I have no idea why... (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“OU is awful!”
Written on: 17/10/2011 by AnnoyedOUer (1 review written)
After spending two years at uni, my personal circumstances meant I had to leave. I decided to carry on my studies with the OU to try and complete my degree and, quite frankly, it was a terrible mistake. You're not allowed to use any material except the course booklet (which is badly written and doesn't go into anywhere near enough detail), and I found my tutor unhelpful and rude. The OU is probably fine if you're lazy or stupid but if you've got an ounce of intelligence you'll find it... (read more)
★★★★★
“OU brilliant alternative”
Written on: 30/08/2011
After attending Lancaster University for the first year of my degree, i decided that the cost of fees, travel and overall satisfaction with university life, I transferred to the OU. I found the staff at the OU to be very helpful. The guided me through the transfer process and quite easily transferred my credits from the first year. They then guided me through the choices of degree path and which courses would be best for me. FUNDING I had to pay for the first two courses as I had recieved... (read more)
Guest's Comment
Written on: 27/03/2012
This is a fantastically detailed, fantastically thorough review, and, after reading this, I hope to be starting my BSc in Biology in October!!
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★☆☆☆☆
“If you have any serious problems at home then they...”
Written on: 18/04/2011
If you have any serious problems at home then they would disregard them very quickly, without consideration.
Overall very bad, little communication,
(read more)
Guest's Comment
Written on: 24/06/2011
Oh it's a shame you feel like that. I have an open university degree and i had always found them very accomodating when things were difficult at home. Maybe you were just unlucky with one tutor. If you have any 'serious problems at home' it's going to be difficult to study any where but the OU would always be a good option well worth considering. Much cheaper too!
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Guest's Comment
Written on: 30/10/2011
Yes I can agree - I have attempted to go on a course but after attending an open day in Edinburgh. When I tried to follow the instructions I have been given it was not as explained on the open day. There was too many forms and when I tried to pay in instalments the form required was not in my pack, when requested again, after 4 phone calls was sent exactly the the same information, excluding the from I wanted. E-mail helpline was a 4 day turn round and when I complained after a month I still have not heard a reply. Considering the cost of the fees I was disappointed at the customer service,
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★★★★★
“I started with the OU simply because my whole life at...”
Written on: 16/04/2011
I started with the OU simply because my whole life at the time was based on continuous work and profile building, so it worked fine for me. I first obtained a Diploma in Design & Innovation, then on to a BSC (Hons) Technology degree while holding down 3 jobs in my penultimate and final year of my degree all at the same time. Till today I don't know how I did it! But I did. If you are someone with endurance and self belief then you will find that passing through the OU will strengthen these... (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“Open University, First of all I want to say thank you...”
Written on: 15/04/2011
Open University, First of all I want to say thank you to open university for giving oppotunity to study, But this is not for me. The course fee is very expensive for what they provide, I paid more than £1200.00 for two books and a CD. after registration I recieved books and I realised they are really heavy materials with no supprt. the study plan is intensive it ismore than 20 hours of study a week(OU says you need 15 hours a week). If you work along side this course then there is no time... (read more)
Guest's Comment
Written on: 18/06/2011
it is a degree it is obviously going to be challenging! In this sort of case it would be wise to have studied an easier course first perhaps to get used to this level of study and see if you are able to do it.
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Guest's Comment
Written on: 25/06/2011
If you feel that way contact the OU and withdraw and you will get a proportion of your money back depending on far you are into the course.
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Shadowfax's Comment
Written on: 20/08/2011
I don't know what your course was but I find what you say out of character with the OU. I have both a BA (Hons) degree and the Professional Certificate in Management from the OU Business School and I can state, catagorically, that I always had access to my tutor; always had support when needed and found the materials first class. I also had the opportunity to attend University College London as part of my degree. I studied ancient Greek philosophy, science and warfare and was one of only two out of ten who passed the course.I was 39 at the time; the chap who passed with me was 52! It was the OU's rigour that trained and prepared me for UCL. It taught me to read, think, interpret and analyse everything I read and studied. It also taught me to be independent. You mention taking your book to your tutor. He or she is not there for that; the unit notes is the tutor. You learn from them. Clarification is what comes from the tutor together with comments and guidannce on your essays.I went to about 4 tutorials during my seven years of study with the OU. I didn't need to attend; I had the units! I support the OU 100% and have not found any problems so far with either materials or tutors. Best of luck.
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Bilboman's Comment
Written on: 11/12/2011
I am finding the course very frustrating and have to agree with "Guest" - it is very expensive, too! I simply cannot find examples in my own working environment to answer competently the Activities (Like Shadowfax I am doing the Professional Certificate in Management). I consider myself intelligent (I have a law degree and speak seven languages and I have been an Area Manager for nearly 3 years. But I keep coming back to the feeling that cours is going to do for me. I cannot see myself completing the first TMA or completing the course.
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Twitcher001's Response to SouthEastLondoner's Review
Written on: 30/04/2013
I'm a current student at the OU, studying Computer Science. I couldn't agree more with this review it is very accurate.
I'm in a first edition of a module TT284 and it is terrible. We are being used as guinea pigs for new teaching methods. Currently, we have practical activities and there are no answers supplied to questions and exercises. So you can imagine what it can be like when you get stuck. I've paid £465 for this module as I'm on transitional fees. The full fee is approx £1250, I would feel sick with the poor quality if I'd have paid that.
Additionally, the quality of tutors varies greatly. The good ones are great and the bad ones are very bad, arrogance is a good word to describe their behavior in regards to students .
I've done 8 module now and for me the ratio of good to bad tutors is at about 50% good. The bad ones are just there for the money and don't care about you. I have to hassle the hell out of them and some times I'm just ignored. I have also experienced a lot of rudeness from the OU when I've complained about bad tutors.
I couldn't recommend my Java modules more though they are very good as are the tutors for them.
My main reason for studying with the OU was that I will not have any debt when I finish. If you're to start now this may not be the case, as full time students will have to pay approx £5000 a year and I wouldn't recommend it for that price. My girlfriend attends Liverpool uni and she loves it. She has great tutors and enjoys a good social life. You don't really meet people at the OU so be aware of that no matter what their marketing tells you.
If you want to save money the OU does have some very good degrees to choose from. However, take into account the above.