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English Language and Literature

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• 15 Apr 2026 07:36

English Language and Literature

Hello, I hope you're well. I'd like to ask a few questions about the BA(Honours) English Language and Literature course. Please excuse my English.

First, I would like to know more about the teaching and lecture style of the course. Is it mainly text-based reading, or a mixture of readings and video materials? I understand that many modules include video content, but I would like to know what kind of videos they are and how often they are provided (for example, one video per topic or more). Are these videos similar to university lectures, or are they shorter, more focused materials?

Secondly, I would like to ask about the online library. Since I am an international student, it is very important for me to know how many books and resources I can access online. If possible, could you also compare with other universities in the UK?

Thank you very much for your time and assistance.

Kind regards, Miyu.

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Post 2 in reply to 1

• 15 Apr 2026 14:28
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Hi Miyu,

Thank you for your enquiry and for your interest in our BA (Honours) English Language and Literature (Q39):

https://www.open.ac.uk/courses/english/degrees/ba-english-language-literature-q39/

Each module you study as part of the degree has its own delivery structure, but all are designed for distance learning and guided independent study rather than traditional lectures. 

To give you an example, the two Stage 1 modules are delivered as follows: 

Discovering the arts and humanities (A111)

This module is presented through a blend of printed and online material. You’ll receive three printed module books and have access to a dedicated module website.

Introducing English language studies (L101)

You’ll study through a module website and will also receive four printed module books, one for each block of study.

For all modules, the module website is the central hub for your learning. Each week you’ll work through a structured mix of:

  • Reading (from printed books and online sources)

  • Short videos and audio recordings

  • Interactive activities and guided tasks

We do not deliver traditional lectures. The videos are usually shorter and more focused, designed to explain key concepts, introduce topics, or demonstrate ways of analysing texts, rather than replicate a lecture theatre experience.

You’ll also have the option to attend online tutorials, which are run by tutors on the module. These typically last one to two hours and are optional. Some tutorials may be recorded so you can watch them later if you’re unable to attend live.

For each module you study, you’ll be assigned a personal tutor who will:

  • Mark your assignments (TMAs) and provide detailed feedback

  • Guide you towards relevant learning resources

  • Offer individual academic support, whether for study skills or specific topics

Your tutor is always the first point of contact for academic advice.

Each module also has dedicated online forums, where you can discuss topics with other students, ask questions, and take part in group activities. Tutors moderate and contribute to these forums as needed.

Regarding your question about the online library, the Open University Library provides extensive access to ebooks, ejournals, and academic databases, all available online, which is particularly important for international and distance‑learning students. You can find an overview of the resources and support available here:

https://university.open.ac.uk/library/help-and-support/getting-started-with-the-online-library

As the UK’s largest provider of distance learning, our library and learning materials are designed so that students can complete their studies without needing to access a physical campus library.

If you’d like more detailed or module‑specific information about teaching formats or learning materials, please feel free to contact us via our Contact the OU page (https://www.open.ac.uk/contact) and we can refer your query to the relevant Faculty team.

You may also find the following pages helpful in understanding what it’s like to study with us:

I hope this helps.

If you have any further questions or need additional support, please don’t hesitate to contact us using one of our main contact methods listed on our Contact the OU page:

https://www.open.ac.uk/contact

Best wishes,

Neems

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