1. The Open University A higher education route into IT & Computing through the Open University IT & Computing Careers Seminar Sheffield 12 October 2005 Presenter – Wendy Fisher Staff Tutor in Technology

2. The Open University Open access distance learning provider Established in 1970 Study while you work 7000-8000 Tutors 200,000 Students YASS Scheme for school children

3. Student Support Personal Tutor Regional Student Services E-mail Peer Support Face to Face tutorials On-line conferencing Paper and web resources

4. What is a Foundation Degree? Established in 2001 Designed in conjunction with employers – NTOs and SSCs Contain a work-based element Provide a progression to an Honours ‘top- up’ Available part-time

6. G04 Foundation Degree in Information and Communication Technologies Provides 240 points U/G Level Academic and Vocational elements New Career opportunities Lead to: Honours or Masters Degree Where to Start – T175 Networked Living T175 explores information and communication technologies – 30 Points

7. T175 Networked Living For anyone interested in ICTs A route to a career change or better employment Combine with M150 Data, Computing and Information – Certificate in Information technology and Computing Take prior to T121 – Information and Communication Technologies at work towards G04 Move on to take a ICT Honours Degree

8. Length of Study How long? Studying 60 points a year – 4 years Studying 90 points a year – 3 years Suggested pathways and modules – support given from trained regional student service managers Assessment – TMAs and ECAs and Exam

9. Contact Details W.A.Fisher@open.ac.uk Customer Contact Centre The Open University PO Box 724 Milton Keynes MK7 6ZS Tel: 01908 653231 Fax: 01908 654806 Email:general-enquiries@open.ac.ukgeneral-enquiries@open.ac.uk