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The Open University has an astonishing track-record of using new and emerging technologies to make higher education available to all people around the world.
Martha Lane Fox, Chancellor of The Open University
The OU teaches through its own unique method of distance learning, called ‘supported open learning’, which is:
More about the OU study experience
Our modules are developed by multi-disciplinary course teams comprising:
This model has helped to build the University's reputation for innovation, rigour and quality and has been adopted by distance teaching institutions worldwide.
Open University courses are underpinned by research of international excellence and are subject to rigorous external scrutiny. In addition, a world-leading programme of research into teaching strategies and educational technologies ensures that our materials are effective and appropriate for large-scale open learning.
Visit The Open University's research website
The OU has a network of more than 5,000 tutors – the largest in the UK. Tutors mark assignments, provide detailed written feedback, and offer support to students by telephone, email, or computer conferencing. They also run group or online tutorials and day schools. Some are full-time members of staff, but most are associate lecturers: experts in their subject who combine their work as tutors with other academic or industry jobs.
Students are assessed through tutor-marked and computer-marked assignments, oral or practical assessments, projects, examinations, dissertations and portfolios. External examining ensures that we maintain academic standards and provides an independent view of the assessment process.
Arrangements for assuring quality of academic provision, standards of awards and quality of student learning experience are outlined in a our quality and standards fact sheets.
The Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) has judged that The Open University’s academic standards, the quality and enhancement of its student learning opportunities, and the quality of information about its learning opportunities all meet UK expectations.
Find out more about the review or read our QAA report
Read our Learning and Teaching sub-strategy, Learning Now for the Future (pdf)