Distance Learning - not OU

[stilldazed]

Anyone have any experience of distance learning that is not the Open University. I and interested in studying psychology/sociology I would love to here from anyone with experience suggestions.

I tried Arden psychology, it wasn’t the same as going into uni. All pre-recorded lectures, minimum amount of info, felt like I could have just read a text book or something instead. Felt like factory produced education. Wasn’t impressed, left after a couple of modules. Went to “real” uni instead and my marks were all distinctions (as opposed to passes at Arden), quality of teaching was so much better, met other mature students with similar interests. It was only 1 day a week, I think it’s worth it to get the full experience. Guess it depends what you are looking for - an education, or just a certificate?

I want to do it because i'm interested not just to get a certificate. I can't go to classes as i'm not in the uk...would like as close to the 'real univercity' experience as possible without physically going to lectures.

What's putting you off the OU?

I completed a PG Cert with Cumbria University distance learning. It takes a lot more commitment and drive I think as it’s entirely under your own steam and so easy to put off.

I did my masters with Exeter uni, completely online. There were also several other unis with this option. It's worth looking at their websites .

If you're not in the UK, you might struggle to do UK distance learning - there can be issues about access to some online resources outside the UK because of licence restrictions (presuming you're not in the Republic of Ireland).

What online courses are offered in your country?

Thanks everyone.i'll look at exeter. Not sure what's putting me off ou...how is it considered? Not the same as a 'real uni' i imagine..but it is fairly expensive

OU is pretty well regarded IME.

It is a “real uni” 🙄 Your choice of phrase is quite offensive. The reason it costs the same as a brick university to attend is because the qualifications are equivalent.

The OU do distance learning very well - unsurprisingly, as they have been around a long time. I don’t think you’ll get a much different experience with other providers IME. They all offer a very similar set up of lots of independent learning, some pre-recorded materials and some live lectures along with forums and opportunities to work with peers. Many of the OU courses are also slightly cheaper than distance learning through a brick uni if this is a factor for you.