Open University

[Queenie]

I've spotted a course I like the sound of, it's a few months long and covers fossil hunting and the history of life as an introduction for people with little or no scientific knowledge. I'm a paleontologist at heart so this sounds perfect and £99 is looking quite reasonable, especially considering I can put the points I earn towards a science degree whenever I have the time and money to afford it!!!

So my question is, has anyone on here done any OU short courses, or courses of any kind? Are they easy to follow, enjoyable, good value? I'm just about to finish my second year of A-Levels and start work so I'm not really in a situation to throw money about on things that aren't worth it. Any input would be welcome.

 

[KayleeUK]

I know people who have done them and really found them worthwhile.

 

[SEVANS2208]

I'm in the 4th year with the OU. Have done 3 60-point courses and doing a 30-point course this year (just needed a bit of a break from it).

I don't know about that particular course but generally I find the OU stuff very good. The course books are excellent (most of the time!) and you also get support from your tutor. I haven't done a short course with them but feel free to PM me & I'l try to answer any questions you have.

 

[Miffy2003]

Like Sarah, I have not done a short course but did a couple of "year" ones with OU. If it's a subject you are passionate about I would say £99 is money well spent

 

[Pootle]

I have an OU degree from many years ago and thoroughly enjoyed most of my studies. The OU courses had a very good reputation and I expect they still do. Have you considered that a future employer may help you with the costs; particularly if you do a course which is related to your employment in some way?

If you are coping with A levels then you should find the course materials straightforward, especially as you have an interest in the subject. As a former 6th form tutor I'd say that if your goal is a science degree eventually, then a short OU course would be a very good way to start if you are definitely not continuing with full-time education.

Good luck with it.

 

[Tron[ADS]]

I did a 60 unit course 4 years ago, which was supposed to continue until I upgraded my hnc into a degree..... but unfortunately had to drop out towards the end when my daughter was born. It was a c-section birth, which meant my wife couldnt really do anything for 6 weeks, which meant I had no time to continue my studies.
I found it pretty easy to be honest (it was in a subject I worked in), although when I bailed out, I was due to start a "group" project, which I wasnt comfortable with, and my tutor got on my nerves a bit nagging me trying to get me to change my mind. Im not sure if all the courses have a group project aspect, but I didnt like the fact that my grades could be affected by someone else's performance, and vice versa.