The Open University supports 200,000 students and has been the expert in distance-learning for more than 50 years. The unique challenges that students face when studying remotely and abroad have resulted in The Open University launching TalkCampus, to give students access to 24/7 mental health support wherever they are in the world and encourage human connection through their studies.
The nature of The Open University learning, where three quarters of students study at their own pace, and alongside employment, means the average OU student life is very different from the norm. Students are mainly taking part in their studies online and on their own, through immersive and interactive learning from dedicated tutors. These experiences can be lonely and intimidating without the right resources.
TalkCampus is a global peer-to-peer support platform offering instant support from the ease of a student's phone or browser, 24/7, with real-time moderation and escalation. TalkCampus will also intelligently alert students to additional support specific to The Open University, all embedded within the app, and available anywhere a student is based. A combination of peer support, machine-learning and innovative design, TalkCampus offers a community of support for a variety of anxieties, isolation and life’s ups and downs, whilst also providing social connection with like-minded students, in a non-judgmental environment.
"TalkCampus is unique in its offering and fits with the Open University ethos. Our students are based everywhere, often studying alone and sometimes don’t feel like ‘regular’ students - TalkCampus gives them an anonymous, social experience - connecting them with an entire community of academics worldwide. It is not just for those who are currently suffering with their mental health, but for anyone and everyone and to discuss anything they’d like." Ellena White; Senior Manager at Open University
The TalkCampus global Trust and Safety team works around the clock, across multiple time zones, and is readily available to intervene in real-time if an Open University student is struggling - anywhere in the world.
"TalkCampus provides an informal, social space but also has the appropriate safeguarding around it which fits nicely alongside our existing, dedicated team. It has an easy to use interface, similar to using social media. It is a safe, moderated, anonymous space where students can share exactly what they are feeling without fear or judgement. The fact it is available 24/7 is amazing, as many of our students will be studying outside of standard working hours. Our students, tutors and support staff are ready to engage with the platform, and we know it will be an effective tool in managing mental health, one we will gladly recommend to others." Ellena White
“We are incredibly excited to be launching TalkCampus at The Open University. We know that the community will be an incredible resource for these students and aid them in their success. The value in having an engaging place to talk to other students about their mental health and wellbeing during their studies, no matter where they are in the world is hugely significant. We are delighted to be welcoming The Open University and their students into our community.” Jamie Druitt, Head of Product
If you would like to explore how TalkCampus can support your students, we’d love to hear from you. Book a demonstration below:
