Target audience
OpenLearn is an open platform, we have users worldwide (only 39% of our audience is in the UK). We are really proud to reach learners who traditionally face barriers to higher education. In 2020 14% of OpenLearn users considered themselves to have a disability; for 19% English is not their first spoken language, and 15% were unwaged and/or unable to work. Each year thousands of OU students use OpenLearn to augment their formal studies, including completing their new student induction, developing study skills, researching their next module, or keeping their mind active between modules.
In November-December 2020 we conducted the 5th OpenLearn platform survey to find out more about who our audience is, what their motivations are, and their desires for learning. We received more than 6,600 responses, including more than 800 from Open University students. A summary of some key findings from the survey is shown here.
Demographics
“A lot of my friends are in the same position as me at this time, the OpenLearn courses are a great way to enrich your life, whether it be improving study skills, for future employment or just for personal interest. There are a wide range of courses that I would say cater for everyone, especially on low income, who would find it impossible to find the funds at this time.”
Education and work
“I'm a primary teacher and have humanities as my subject lead so I took a few free courses to support my subject knowledge and ideas for planning and teaching in the classroom. I became quite addicted to them and thoroughly enjoyed doing them during the lockdown. Thank you.”
OU Students
“When I tell people I am an OU student & they seem interested in becoming one too, I send them to OpenLearn. I explain that it gives an excellent example of what to expect from course materials. I know at least 2 people have enrolled with the OU due to this.”
COVID-19
“There are lots of people suffering with mental health problems during COVID 19. The courses I have read have taken my mind from the present situation and I’ve become more positive about the wonders of life. I recommend that people should try the courses.”
More information can be found in our OpenLearn Annual report [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)]
To help better plan your BOC it is recommended that you view our learner profiles here, to give you a good understanding of who may be studying your course.