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Teaching Format

The OU’s technology-intensive teaching format is especially suited for students abroad and can bridge the difficulties stemming from the geographic distance involved. While tutorial sessions are not conducted abroad,1 the OU distance learning format is based primarily on self-study of written materials, along with additional components available to students.

The course websites enable direct contact with the course staff and with other students in the course and provide forums and discussion groups to simulate a lively academic environment. Enrichment and illustrative material as well as electronic textbooks and digital recordings of tutorial sessions are also included on course sites. In effect, the course sites constitute a virtual campus with both academic and social features.

Computerized contact

While the OU does not require students to communicate with the University via the computer, students abroad are encouraged to take full advantage of the computerized activities on the course websites. Students can communicate with the course staff through the sites or via e-mail, utilize the online assignment system, and receive administrative services through Sheilta

Online counseling is also available for prospective and new students as well as for continuing students who can input information such as prior educational background, study objectives at the OU and academic areas of interest. This information is then used by the academic advisers to provide counseling in selecting courses or designing a program of studies.

Hardware and software requirements for students abroad

To ensure efficient communication with the OU, to participate in computerized tutorials, and to take advantage of distance learning utilizing additional technologies, the required computer specifications for students studying abroad are:

  1. A computer with a Hebrew interface operating system or Windows 2000 with Hebrew fonts
  2. A keyboard with Hebrew letters (embedded or glued)
  3. An Internet connection and Explorer version 5.5 or above
1 When you plan a visit to Israel, the OU will try to arrange a meeting for you with the course coordinator or tutor of each course that you are taking in the current semester. Let the course coordinator know when you are coming so as to set up a meeting.
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