Difficulties with English language

People may find English a challenge because

• it is not their first language
• they have a specific learning difficulty such as dyslexia
• their previous education developed only basic English skills
• they are more used to speaking than writing in English
• they learned a style of English writing that does not fit the UK’s usual academic style
• they have a combination of these difficulties.

Types of language problem

Language problems often fall into two main categories.

Difficulties in understanding can cause particular problems when

• reading the style of language used in a course
• listening to others, either in group sessions or telephone tutorials
  
• trying to respond to spoken or written questions
• encountering colloquialisms, idioms and cultural references (for example from current television programmes) that are used in online forums or other discussions
• making use of examples used in explanations.

Difficulties in writing for others to read may relate particularly to

• punctuation or the use of paragraphs
• making mistakes with verb tenses, or with subject and verb agreement
• using the wrong word or putting words in the wrong order
• errors in spelling
• inability to write at length in order to construct essays or reports
• using a style which does not suit UK academic work.

If you are not sure whether you are ready to study at university level then consider these options.

• You could work on improving your English on your own, preferably before you begin study with the OU - look at the Further links and resources for English section for suggestions.
• You could take an Openings course with the OU in the subject that interests you. These short courses (which can be completed in up to 20 weeks’ work) provide telephone tuition from a tutor. You submit three pieces of written work, which will help you to get a better idea of whether you are ready for further university study at OU Level 1. However, these courses are designed to introduce students to a subject and to teach academic skills, and not to improve your English language. Openings courses are for UK resident students.
• You could take a course to help you improve your English skills.

The LearnDirect site (or phone 0800 100 900) provides information on local courses in basic English for UK residents. These are up to Level 2 (roughly equivalent to GCSE A*-C), and the fees are partly subsidised through Skills for Life funding. There can be long waiting lists to start a course.

Note that completing a course in basic English is a helpful first step, but would not give you a strong enough foundation for university-level study, which makes demands equivalent to Level 4 and Level 5 in these courses.

English UK lets you search for English language courses at associated language schools and centres, which usually offer assessment tools to help you to diagnose your needs and offer tuition to suit your ability. They include Level 2 (GCSE A*-C) and beyond. The courses are usually studied full time for 5–10 weeks, and courses and examinations must be paid for. They are accredited by the British Council.

Students outside the UK may find that the OU has a country coordinator or representative who can advise on local sources of support. Go to Contact the OU and choose your country from the drop-down list to see contact details for your local coordinator.

• You could find out what English courses are available at your local college or adult learning centre.

Related pages
Using English language