Free learning with The Open University

MSE_Martin

10 April 2007

What's this all about?

The Open University has opened its virtual doors to everyone, allowing free access to many of its learning materials and resources online. This is incredibly useful for those who want to learn, or as a reinforcement for those who are already studying. In addition, teachers or other educaters can also make the most of this facility by incorporating the materials into their current teaching practises.

From access to masters level, each of the 11 topics available offer a wealth of information to tickle your brain.

What to do

Simply visit The Open University's OpenLearn section of its website and browse through to the sections that take your interest. If you decide to delve into learing a module or two, the LearningSpace is where you'll want to glance, listing the various faculties (including Art and History, Mathematics and Statistics and Modern Languages) and modules available.

Support

You don't have to register with The Open University to use its resources, although if you chose to, there's the added benefit of interacting with other distance learners using the site's online chat facility and forums.

Learning may increase earning

Although you won't receive a certificate for completing any of these modules, not only is taking the plunge to gain new knowledge quite liberating, but it may also be beneficial to mention new learning to your employer; especially if any of the modules are relevant to your job or a future promotion.

Martin

P.S. This discussion was originally started by the poster immediately below. This entry has been inserted so I can put an official MoneySavingExpert.com explanation at the top. Thank you to hex2 for the top spot.

hex2

The Open Univeristy announced a few months ago that it was going to provide free access to some of its older learning materials via http://www.open.ac.uk/openlearn/home.php

There wasn't a lot on it originally but now there are two main sections with a reasonable range of courses on. You don't get a certificate for completing them but there are some great resources, like a 300 hour course on change management. Not something you often find free access too! Business, education, history, languages, etc.

http://labspace.open.ac.uk/
http://openlearn.open.ac.uk/index.php

If you are a trainer or employer they are fine with you adapting the materials for your own purposes which is great if you are on a limited budget.

Wiggly_Worm

Brilliant find, thank you! Had a quick peek and am looking forward to brushing up my languages and swotting some history, too. You should never stop learning

Wiggly_Worm

Bumpety bump - more poeple need to see this

Sharra

awesome find!!
What a great resource - ou texts are always brilliant.

lazarou_true

Thanks Hex2, really useful post.

milkfloatquack

Giving this another well deserved bump

pannetteb

WOW! THIS IS BRILLIANT.
I have enrolled myself on a module. This is really beneficial for anyone trying to get an promotion (like me) and or studying in college.
I haven't got the time for class baased learning, and these modules are brilliant for tailoring the information you want.

THANK YOU

CIS

My wife and I both study with the O.U - they offer high quality resources in a way that's easy to understand

RossGoodman

hex2 wrote: »

a 300 hour course on change management

I know a few people who could benefit from this course but I was unable to see it.
Can you confirm where it is for me please.

Thanks

Ross

jellycat40

thanks so much for this should be just what I need to brush up on my social care before interviews for work in the next few months.

Louise