The Open University in Scotland
Module - S111 - Questions in Science
S111 Questions in Science is a 60 credit module that is an entry to sciences degree within the Open University. Key to creating a sense of belonging within this module is the creation of tutor groups of around 20 students which are the main focus of the teaching. Synchronous interactive tutorials held throughout the duration of the module also help to cement relationships between staff and students as the module progresses.Contributor: Dr Linda Thomson
3. Induction and orientation
As soon as they have registered all OU students have access to a VLE module ‘Induction to OU study’. This gives the general induction to the OU and studying with the OU.
The S111 module is open three weeks before the official start date of the module and the academic team look after the forum during these three weeks to respond to any pre-module queries. Induction to the module happens during week 1.
Discussion forums are a key digital tool during induction and throughout the module to encourage student communication. As with tutorial groups, discussion forums are arranged at module, cluster and tutor group level so students are able to achieve wider levels of interaction with other students, and with different tutors who are experts in the different disciplines, plus the central academic team.
All students are also able to attend a face to face introductory day school held at multiple venues across the UK. Students unable to attend are offered online alternatives.
Each student will also receive an initial phone call from their tutor. Tutor group tutorials are scheduled early on in the module. As well as part of the induction, this will also allow students to get to know the rest of their tutor group.