What you will study
This multidisciplinary module provides an excellent introduction to studying with The Open University; you'll get to cover a wide range of subject areas, including psychology, childhood and youth studies, health and social wellbeing, sport, education and social sciences.
The module is divided into three blocks:
Block 1: Who am I?
This block, which you will study in print, considers identity and the overarching question of “Who am I?”Our identities are explored in a number of different ways, including an introduction to genetics and demographics. These assigned or biological factors are combined with social elements such as gender, class and our psychological outlook on life. As well as engaging with some key concepts, the idea of individuals as learners and agents who shape their life to varying degrees is also considered. There is an emphasis on developing skills that form the foundation for academic communication in a variety of forms.
Block 2: Is it fair?
Block 2 moves to online study and addresses the topic of fairness in several different ways. Building on the issue of identity, the social context in which an individual exists begins an exploration of difference and inequality. From the way in which the places we are born and the environment in which we are raised affects our life chances, to the differences between bodies and minds, the physical, practical and psychological differences mean that our ‘playing field’ may not always be equal. While exploring these concepts, your online learning skills are developed, including reading and note-taking, and academic skills focus on constructing an essay.
Block 3: What can be done?
Continuing online, the key issues you studied in the previous two blocks are considered in practical terms. The tensions between nature and nurture, and the dynamic society in which we live means that there are choices we can all make in our homes, neighbourhoods, countries, and the planet as a whole. However, some of these changes may not be as simple as they appear because of the issues outlined previously. Looking holistically at these issues and the previous material, academic skills of critical evaluation and comparison are developed and the opportunity to plan and write an essay consolidates essential skills.
During the module, you will encounter three student-choice weeks. These weeks give you an opportunity to think about your future study or career options, hone some of your study skills or find out about the OU student community. You could also choose to spend the week learning about a subject that interests you on OpenLearn, or you could simply use the time to catch up or have a well-earned break.
The module includes multimedia material and a website with further study materials and resources as well as online quizzes and interactive exercises to help test your understanding.
As you study this module you will build your confidence and develop your study skills, including:
- reading and interpreting information
- producing written communications
- time management and organisational skills
- problem solving.
You will also have the opportunity to gain skills such as working with audio and video material, using online forums and searching the internet for information. This experience will provide you with a gentle introduction to using a computer to support your study, and will equip you with the basic computing skills you will need for the next step in your studies.
Towards the end of the module you will have the opportunity to participate in activities which will help you to make decisions about your future study plans.