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Courses
The Design Group develops and presents courses that contribute to a number of undergraduate and post-graduate qualifications. Staff in the group also contribute to a wide range of courses managed by other departments and faculties of the University. To see what courses we teach look at the list of courses we teach and are involved with.
Teaching design at a distance
Design and innovation have become major economic and social forces today. The Open University enables you to learn about design and innovation from home using a range of distance learning materials. You can examine the processes and outputs of experts from a range of design, engineering and technology contexts using DVDs and printed materials. Interactive software helps you develop skills and you can engage in your own design activity supported by regional tutors. Email conferencing allows students to share their learning and build up networks of contacts. The various courses aim to increase your awareness of design and innovation, and develop your critical judgements. You will develop skills and knowledge with the basic principles and practices of design and innovation. A key theme in many of our courses is design for a sustainable future.
How we develop courses
The Open University’s distance learning materials are highly regarded and are founded on 40 years experience. Courses are created by academic teams supported by editors, managers, designers, multi-media directors, etc. Clear learning outcomes guide new course proposals. Drafts of materials are discussed at team meetings and these are gradually refined and developed. Some courses exploit traditional printed books but other course are only available for study over the internet. Examination can be by course work assignments, computer marked assignments, project and/or written exam.
How we present courses
When all the materials for a course are complete, the course is ready for presentation to students. Students enrolling for a course are sent the course materials along with a timetable for study and are supported through their study by local staff tutors and Associate Lecturers. Students work through courses at home through the academic year. With up to 10,000 students on any one course the organisational effort is considerable. Overseeing the running of the course as a whole is the course team chair who, together with the course manager, ensure smooth operation and timely review of materials.
Course levels
As with a conventional undergraduate degree courses Open University courses are taught at different levels. Level 1 courses correspond with first year undergraduate courses, and likewise with level 2 and level 3 courses. We also offer post-graduate courses (level 4 and above).
Course credits
Students successfully completing a course gain a certain number of points. To graduate from the University students need to accumulate at least 360 points at all levels. 360 points corresponds to 3 years full-time study. Course are mainly 30 or 60 points, with short courses being 10 points. A student studying one 60 point course over the academic year is doing roughly half what a full-time student at a conventional university would be doing.
Page Last Updated: 26 February, 2009