Before your course starts
Allow some time to get yourself ready for a course that involves the use of a PC.
If you already have a PC
- double-check it against the PC specification for your course - look at the course description details under Computing requirements
- don't assume that a lower specification will be sufficient.
If your computer doesn't meet the specification, you might
- be able to upgrade it
- need to think about buying a newer one
- be able to use a computer at work
- be able to use a public access computer.
If you are going to get a PC of your own
- make sure that it at least fits the minimum specification for your course: you will probably find that new PCs have a higher specification than needed for your course, but it is worth taking a copy of the specification to the shop you are buying from
- get the PC early
- set it up
- get used to how it works.
If you are going to use a computer at work for your course, check with your IT administrator
- that you are allowed to load any course software
- that you will be able to access the forums.
If you feel you need to know more about using your computer
- we offer short courses that may fit into your qualification plan
- try your local adult education classes or further education college for a short refresher
- Learndirect
(a non-OU site) offers online courses, and gives information about courses at over 2000 centres across the UK.
When you get your registration confirmation letter
Once you have received the package of computer information from the OU
- install any software as instructed in the software guide
- sign in and register with your username and password
- start to find your way around the OU sites.
Consider your main use for the PC, and check that you have the skills or knowledge you need. Although some students use spreadsheets and databases, the key skills for most students are
- word processing their study notes and assignments
- searching for information on the web
- using forums and email.
Have a look at Resources for ways to improve your skills.
Next: Help with the cost of buying a computer
