Your language and learning story

Introduction
In this activity you will
•	listen to students talking about their OU study and their language backgrounds
•	reflect on your own learning interests and language story.
Watch the video extracts and answer the questions.
Questions
Your study plans
Now that you have listened to these students’ stories, think about your own learning experiences and how they connect with your current study plans.
What excites or interests you about studying with the OU?

What subject or course are you interested in? Why?

Your use of English 
You use language every day, to exchange ideas, give information, share jokes with your friends or express your feelings. Think about why you use English in your everyday life - at home, at work or in your free time.
In what situations do you feel most confident? Why do you think that is?

When are you least comfortable and why?

Your English language skills
Now think specifically about your English language skills, compared with other languages that you know or use.
Are you more confident speaking, listening, reading or writing? Why?

Have you done any formal study of English? If so, to what level?

Do you speak, read or write other languages in addition to English?

Have you noticed any differences in the way you use these languages compared with English?

Points to consider 
•	When you study with the OU, you become part of a diverse community of learners. The experience that you bring to your studies can make a valuable contribution to your own learning and that of other people.
•	OU courses involve a great deal of reading and writing. They often include video and audio resources that require an ability to listen to and understand key points.
•	You will also need to use your speaking and listening skills, for instance when you converse with your tutor by phone. Your ability to communicate with others is vital if you are to make the most of your learning experience.