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Help and advice

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. I want to access one of the law databases but can’t remember how to do this; what should I do?

  2. I’m having a problem accessing the law databases; what should I do?

  3. I’ve managed to access my chosen database/website, but am now having problems working out how best to search it; what shall I do?

  4. I’m having a problem with information provided via the Open University Library: what should I do?

  5. I think the problem is something to do with my computer or my internet browser; what should I do?

  6. I've found something wrong on the module support site/there seems to be a technical problem with the module support site; what should I do?

  7. I’ve been looking at information on the Module News, and I’m not sure how it applies to me; what should I do?

  8. How do I avoid having to scroll across the page in order to view the whole page?

  9. I’d like to make comments about the website; how do I go about doing this?

  1. I want to access one of the law databases but can't remember how to do this;  what should I do?

    Remember that there are access instructions in section 4 of your Study Guide for the law databases which are available to you on your module. However, the easiest way to access these databases is to click on the links on this website.

    You can also contact the Open University Library Helpdesk (lib-help@open.ac.uk). The Helpdesk can advise generally about all Open University Library resources.

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  2. I'm having a problem accessing the law databases; what should I do?

    Access to any electronic source of information can never be 100% certain (there may for example be problems with the internet itself, or with the particular database). Sometimes the best thing to do is simply to try again later; the problem may have resolved itself.

    Also, remember to check that you are entering your password and username correctly.

    If your problem is specifically with LexisLibrary (previously known as LexisNexis Butterworths) database, LexisLibrary provide a 24-hour helpline on 0845 370 1234.

    NB if your chosen database or site is unavailable, it may be worth trying to find the information you want elsewhere (for example, if you cannot access All England (EC), remember that many EC law materials can be found via Eur-Lex on the free-to-access Europa website www.europa.eu.int).

    As noted above you can also contact the Open University Library Helpdesk for assistance in using Open University Library Resources.

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  3. I've managed to access my chosen database/website, but am having problems working out how best to search it;  what shall I do?

    (a) Remember that many sites and databases have a Help facility; this is worth trying, as it will normally be tailored to the workings of the particular site or database.

    (b) If you are a W200 student, remember that Units 3, 15 and 17 of your module deal with how to use electronic databases (if you are a student on W201, W300 or W301, you will find this information in the Annex to your Study Guide).

    (c) If you need to refresh your information-finding skills generally, take a look at Safari, the Open University Library’s free online information skills tutorial.

    You can also contact the Open University Library Helpdesk (lib-help@open.co.uk) for assistance in using Open University Library resources. They can also help with problems relating to passwords, and answer queries about the internet generally.

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  4. I'm having a problem with information provided via the Open University Library;  what should I do?

    Contact the Open University Library Helpdesk (lib-help@open.co.uk) who are responsible for covering and updating the information available via routes.

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  5. I think the problem is something to do with my computer or my internet browser; what should I do?

    (a) For computer-related problems, check if the supplier or the manufacturer of your computer has a helpline; for browser problems, get in touch with your Internet Service Provider.

    (b) The Open University has a Computing Helpdesk +44 (0)1908 653972 which can provide help on technical computing problems.

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  6. I've found something wrong on the module support site/there seems to be a technical problem with the module support site; what should I do?

    Please report faults or inaccuracies in the site to yourfeedback@lawcol.co.uk.

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  7. I've been looking at information on the Module News, and I'm not sure how it applies to me;  what should I do?

    Enquiries about the modules and information relating to these should be directed to the OU Law School Team on 01908 858589.

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  8. How do I avoid having to scroll across the page in order to view the whole page?

    Windows

    Go to your desktop
    • Right-click your mouse on any available space on your desktop
    • Click on 'Properties'
    • Click on the 'Settings' tab
    • Go to the screen resolution bar at the bottom left of the options box. By dragging the pointer to the right, the size of the page (screen resolution) will decrease
    • Click 'Apply' to test the size. If you are happy with the size of the page click 'Yes'. If not 'No' will return you to the previous options

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  9. I'd like to make comments about the website:  how do I go about doing this?

    We welcome feedback on the course support sites; please e-mail your comments or suggestions to yourfeedback@lawcol.co.uk.

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