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Autism and Open University

Non Human Entity

Hi everyone,

To provide a little context I have attempted to make headway into the world of academia on multiple occasions (school, college and uni) and in every instance have dropped out. It is only due to a recent diagnosis of ASD and personal research that I have identified this as the real cause of my failings. I have been working against myself (resulting in unbearable anxiety) and not playing to my strengths it seems.

I consistently feel frustrated that I am not able to use my brain for anything constructive, but now I know what has been holding me back I am considering returning to some form of study. Having done some research, it seems a course focusing on computing may be best for me as it is something I am interested in and a lot of other people with ASD seem to find success in this area. I also think going down the open university route may be best as I can study to my own schedule and avoid most of the stressful travel and social aspects. Open University do offer extra support for students with ASD also. 

Does anyone here with ASD have experience participating in courses on the Open University? Did you receive extra support and did it help?

Thanks,

Tom

  

Parents

  • I did an Open University degree completed 4 years ago, which took 8 years to complete, whilst working, before being diagnosed. It was really good and worked well for me, but was still very hard work. I did lots of different modules so there was always something new to learn. I am not sure it helped my career or anything, but I do think it progressed my analytical thinking. The course material and tutor support via email, along with communication with other students via email or forums was good. There were also classes to attend and I had to do a 1 week residential, but they weren't too bad. It did cost a lot but fortunately work covered it. I regretted not sticking in at school but I just had to get out so always had this itch to do a degree that needed scratching. I think overall I would recommend it although not sure about what support they offer, or can offer that would make it easier.

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  • I did an Open University degree completed 4 years ago, which took 8 years to complete, whilst working, before being diagnosed. It was really good and worked well for me, but was still very hard work. I did lots of different modules so there was always something new to learn. I am not sure it helped my career or anything, but I do think it progressed my analytical thinking. The course material and tutor support via email, along with communication with other students via email or forums was good. There were also classes to attend and I had to do a 1 week residential, but they weren't too bad. It did cost a lot but fortunately work covered it. I regretted not sticking in at school but I just had to get out so always had this itch to do a degree that needed scratching. I think overall I would recommend it although not sure about what support they offer, or can offer that would make it easier.

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