The Open University

Our mission is to make learning accessible to all, and together we’ve already helped over 2 million students to realise their ambitions.

The OU teaches through its own unique method of distance learning, called ‘supported open learning’, which is:

• Flexible – students work where and when they choose to fit in with jobs, families and other commitments
• All-inclusive – students get all the high quality materials they need to study
• Supportive – personal tutors provide academic expertise, guidance and feedback and run group tutorials; and specialist advisers are on hand to help with other aspects of OU study
• Social – students get together at tutorials, day schools and informal study groups; and through online conferencing, study networks and course forums.

Our modules are developed by multi-disciplinary course teams comprising:

• Academics, educational technologists and media specialists contributing pedagogic and technical expertise
• Respected academics from other universities working alongside OU colleagues
• External examiners.

This model has helped to build the University's reputation for innovation, rigour and quality and has been adopted by distance teaching institutions worldwide.

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