Long distance learning

squizza

squizza

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Good afternoon

Just a query regarding distance learning - ICS and the like.

How have people found it - are they reliable?

Only reason I ask is I am determined to follow my heart and not be pinned to a desk for the rest of my life - at least..not doing something where my heart isn't in it.

I'm wanting to refresh my GCSE Science, and then do A-Level Biology and Chemistry.

I work in the employment sector/benefits so am no stranger to the system and the current economic climate regarding 'dream jobs' and realise that just because I have the qualifications, it doesn't mean I'd get a job doing what I want.... I just feel I can't carry on in the position I am as it's draining my brain cells and want to work toward something.

My work means that distance learning would be best - mainly because the two local colleges I'm near don't do the courses I want to do in the evening - part time study only and attendance to college is a no no, simply because of bills to pay etc so I cannot cut down my work hours.

Any advice/experiences with distance learning much appreciated.

Kind regards and thanks in advance
 
My wife completed an Open University distance learning course several years ago and found it pretty good. There were monthly meetings that you could go to if desired, but no obligation to do so, she never did as they never suited the times/places.

The main thing I found from watching her complete it was, like all education you get out what you put in. She used to spend a lot of time writing assignments, and the likes, but passed the course well. Doing the work at home after a day at work can feel like a drag, and you will lose a lot of currently free time, both in the evenings or weekends, but the rewards are there.

All the documents she required were either emailed out, or in the case of some material posted out, and there was never an issue with getting these. There was also a Tutor on hand via email should any assistance or clarification be required.

Good luck with it.
 
I was thinking on the same lines as Andrew - an Open University course.

It is many years since I did my degree with the OU and the material and support were excellent.

Good luck with whatever you decide on.

Dave
 
13 years of OU courses, Science, Technology and Maths. I kept refusing the degree so I could take more courses :D
Then 4 years of OU business school for an MBA.
It obviously worked for me but you do have to be either:

1. Disciplined with all the studying time planned out or
2. Good under pressure when you are trying to cram 4 weeks work into 2 hours :D

I used to fluctuate between both of them.
 
I did an ICS course years ago and it was a waste of time and money really, partly because the technology I studied was becoming obsolete while I was on the course and employers didn't recognise the diploma I earned.
I would check with potential employers whether they'd accept ICS grades or check out other forums for feedback.
 
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