Open University

So I've signed up for a course with the Open University.  Specifically, a science foundation course.    Anybody used them before?  I'd like to hear what experiences people have had with them.

Ta!
wench

Soooo...received my registration pack the other day.

::Rubs hands together::

Oh yeah, I'm hard core geeking out.    

Now just gotta fill the forms out and send them on!


wench

Wench, What is the Open University? Where is it located? Thanks

Go to www.openuniversity.com

Essentially it's mainly a correspondence course university, but with numerous residential parts to the various courses.

wench

Thanks, wench!

ps~ pretty picture!

Thank you!    I took it with my digi cam um, Saturday?  So it's pretty darn recent.  

Tho it's meant to fit livejournal...may have to see if I can negotiate a refit with Leah so it doesn't look stretched here.  
wench

I know that several of my relatives have degrees through open university.  It is consider the same as any other university degree but generally earned by the mature student that needs the flexibility.  One of my rellies became a teacher after earning her degree and didn't seem to have any problems.

Limit input I'm afraid!

Thanks Gromit, it all helps!  

wench

Hi Wench,
i have also been looking at Open University. At Ph D research level, they seem to be very good (and strict) about it. It certainly looks like they are doing some very interesting and serious sounding research project....and I was told (by a Brit friend) that it is a reputable uni. Don't know if this info helps or not, but certainly let me know if you get to visit the campus or end up taking classes there. I am curious about the uni too since I may end up applying to study there.
Stella

Well I will be taking the Intro to Science course through them, but I'll be doing it at home.  That said, I'm also looking into taking the residential course that ties into it, but haven't been to see anything yet.


wench

hi Wench
i have been talking to the OU people about doing research there. So far, people i talked to are very helpful and friendly, so I hope this will be a good experience for you. Are you based in London? Is it a long commute to take classes there if you choose to take classes on campus?

I'm outside London.    Right now I'd be commuting by bus/train, so anything is long.  

That and I work, so got to schedule round that.
What are you doing your phd on?
wench

i am planning to do my PhD in computer science (either in human computer interaction or ed technology). Still working on my research proposal, let's see if any place will take me. Wench, are you trying to get a degree here or just taking a class here and there?

I'm taking a class with them at the moment, and seriously considering going on to take a degree in engineering (but right now I'm just taking a course to see how far my interest really extends).  I haven't decided whether or not I'll be taking the full degree with them, as I'm rather interested in taking the engineering degree at Brunel University (if I can sort out all the details).

That clear things up a bit?  
wench

i am making some progress...sent my CV to the research coordinator at OU and he will pass it around to see if there are anyone interested in taking me on as an intern prior to starting a Ph D. So I am hopeful about this...hey, maybe we will end up in the same U!