The Journey of an Open University Student

12.03.2020

So glad I managed to get an extension on my assignment! My tutor was so understanding, and she gave me until Monday to get it done and submitted, which I couldn't be happier about!

Absolutely not a pretty or aesthetic study photo, but this is the reality of my desk during a planning session for any essay. I really wish critical analysis on sources got easier, but it's been 3 years and I still struggle - does anyone have any advice?

08/08/19

The exam that marks the end of my second year is fast approaching, seems like it's really crept up on me this year! Cant believe I'll be starting my third year in October!

To anyone interested in studying with the Open University but not quite sure if they're good fit, I'm just about to finish my 2rd year of part time study, and I wanted to share my experiences.

*study schedule is set out in clear week-by-week checklists on the website. It's super easy to follow and you feel super accomplished when you check off everything for that week!

*semi-regular lectures that you have complete free choice to attend in person, or if you have a busy schedule can instead book in with the online lectures instead.

*both of my tutors so far have been very helpful, and happy to answer emails without ever making me feel as though my questions or concerns werent important - something I know a lot of people doing distance study struggle with is emailing their tutors with questions, but I promise you, tutors with the Open Uni are lovely!!!!

*fees are significantly lower than traditional university.

*for most modules, theres a choice in study beginning in October or February, depending on your personal needs and availability.

*most importantly, and the thing that sold it for me, was the ability to study part time. I have a full time job, which meant traditional university wasnt an option for me, but studying part time means I can work toward my degree AND pay my rent!! For those who do have the time however, full time study is also an option.

2/5/19

Working on TMA03 today in school while the children are at their outdoor education lesson.

So. Much. Paper!

Last night I transcribed a recording of a narrative interview I held with one of my colleagues - a half hour interview turned into 4 hours, 7 pages, and nearly 5,000 words. My whole assignment is only 3,000!

08/04/19

I have registered (actually ages ago) to do a BSc (honours) in Health Sciences with the Open University. It will take me six years to complete but it will be worth it. And I’m determined to remain mentally stable for it.

My student loan got approved two days ago so it’s actually happening. The study materials for the first module I’m taking are available from early January but the module does not start officially until February.

The first module involves looking at modern health topics, it has 6 assignments to do and I think an end of module assessment.

I bought some notebooks today to write my notes in and I’m going to start buying things like pens and highlighters.

I am so excited to do this, science is something I’m passionate about.

It’s about 2 hours study a day so I should be able to cope with it I hope.

my textbooks for DE100 arrived before christmas :)

last module (TU100) sent out the textbooks in stages but it was very linear whereas this module is bouncing around the books from week to week

i like that they sent me a module map outlining everything i need to do each week, something i can tick off and complete. i might get stickers to put on each section when i complete