The Open University

About

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.

Resources