Hi Philip,
I agree with all the other correspondents, they teach you nothing
I am rather puzzled by this statement of yours - I don't think I am the only IHGS student who has commented positively in this thread?
I have now reached Lectures 7/8 and am still thoroughly enjoying the course. I have learnt a huge amount from not only the Lecture notes and assignment tasks but also the wider reading which is suggested. The course has enabled me to confidently research my own family far beyond what I would have probably attempted without it - certainly I have more idea of where to look now!
My aim is to complete a Lecture every couple of months or so and at the moment I am a little behind for various reasons - but this isn't a problem as I can dip in and out as I am able. I have lots of support from my tutor - she is very helpful, replies to emails very promptly with advice / encouragement and also returns my work quickly with helpful comments.
Having also studied extensively with the Open University I would say that my current experience is better and the support from tutors and fellow students alike comparable, if not superior to that which I received there. My only regret is that my job and family circumstances have so far prevented me from attending any of the courses held in Canterbury - I hear they are excellent and many students talk of benefiting from the face to face support for specific Lecture topics.
I would encourage you to persevere and try Lecture 2 - I have enjoyed them all but they do get better and better - as well as more challenging! The Institute does
not take your money and walk away
- there are plenty of students - maybe not Rootschatters - that will attest to that.
Liz