Could explain why employers like the OU so much then. Can't say they are dumbing down if its harder can they?
I've met people with a 1st from the OU for their degree. They didn't see it as particularly hard all things considered. I mean working full time and getting a 1st class degree in spare time, how hard can it be?
My wife is finishing her degree off at the OU (3rd year plus any required missed modules), both of us have passed modules with them before. Not amazingly hard - not exactly easy either though.
But it is far, far more down to the individual to study. Not suitable for everyone.