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Digital & Computing
Why has reaching the Chinese internet audience just got a little harder?
The Chinese State is tightening rules on how foreign organisations reach its citizens online. Oiwan Lam explains.

Digital & Computing
Key skill assessment unit: information technology
Skills in information technology (IT) cover a broad range, from using software packages effectively to developing a critical understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of IT solutions. Developing your IT skills means planning your work, practising your skills, seeking feedback from others and reviewing your approach. In this free course, Key ...

Digital & Computing
Network security
Encryption of files and firewalls are just some of the security measures that can be used in security. This free course, Network security, which assumes you have a substantial knowledge of computing, helps to explain the intricacies of the continually changing area of network security by studying the main issues involved in achieving a ...

Science, Maths & Technology
An introduction to software development
Software development is the practice of organising the design and construction of software, the beating heart of much technology fundamental to our personal and professional life. This free introductory course, An introduction to software development, discusses the engineering nature of software development, its challenges and some ...

Digital & Computing
Key skill assessment unit: information literacy
As the volume of information grows in databases, libraries and on the internet, information literacy skills are key to being able to find and manage information effectively in a complex society. Information literacy is about recognising when information is needed, and locating, critically evaluating, using and presenting the information to suit...

Digital & Computing
The database development life cycle
No idea how relational database systems are constructed? Did you know that they underpin the majority of the managed data storage in computer systems? This free course, The database development life cycle, has been designed to give you an overview of the developmental lifecycle for a database system, explaining the importance of data analysis ...

Science, Maths & Technology
How can Wikipedia Activism restore diversity to science?
Using Wikipedia to celebrate the achievements of the many scientists who aren't white men can help restore a sense of balance to science, says Hilda Bastian.

Science, Maths & Technology
What are the security risks of living in a Smart City?
The internet of things brings numerous advantages as our towns and cities become smarter - but there are also security risks. Brian Nussbaum is reassured that we're already talking about the potential downsides.

Society, Politics & Law
Eric King and Bill Binney: Some thoughts on their interview
The OU's Ray Corrigan offers his views on the recent interview between Eric King and NSA whistleblower Bill Binney - and what it means from a UK perspective.

Digital & Computing
Some of all human knowledge: Wikipedia at 15
Wikipedia has grown into the world's go-to source for information. This raises more problems than just a few missing citations...

Digital & Computing
How can governments ensure their cybersecurity is strong?
The state government of Michigan has adopted a response to potential digital attacks that provide a useful model, explains Brian Nussbaum.

History & The Arts
Is Adele's decision to keep 25 off Spotify going to change the music industry?
Adele has sold shedloads of her new album - and kept it off streaming services. But she might be fighting a losing battle...