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Introducing vectors for engineering applications free course icon level 1: introductory icon

Science, Maths & Technology

Introducing vectors for engineering applications

Applied mathematics is a key skill for practicing engineers and mathematical modelling is an ever-increasing field within engineering. This free course, Introducing vectors for engineering applications, covers one aspect of a Level 1 engineering module, the application of vectors and vector algebra, using examples inspired by engineering ...

Free course
5 hrs
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Universities United article icon

Nature & Environment

Universities United

Reflections on how higher education institutions are working together to tackle climate change.

Article
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Science from Early Career Researchers in the School of Physical Sciences article icon

Science, Maths & Technology

Science from Early Career Researchers in the School of Physical Sciences

This collection of articles and videos explores how early career scientists within the School of Physical Sciences carry out research to learn more about the world, and space, we live in.

Article
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Should animals have legal standing? article icon

Society, Politics & Law

Should animals have legal standing?

The law recognises babies, companies and ships as ‘persons’ with legal rights, but not even the most intelligent animals. Is it time for this to change? 

Article
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Astronomy with an online telescope free course icon level 1: introductory icon Badge icon

Science, Maths & Technology

Astronomy with an online telescope

This free course shows you how to navigate the night sky, and introduces the wide variety of objects it contains. You will develop a hands-on understanding of telescopic observations using the Open University’s own robotic telescope facility COAST sited on the island of Tenerife. Supported by your own measurements we illustrate how stars...

Free course
24 hrs
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Back to the Future: Is time travel possible? article icon

Science, Maths & Technology

Back to the Future: Is time travel possible?

Is time travel possible in real life? The simple answer is: Yes!

Article
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Exploring the icy moons article icon

Science, Maths & Technology

Exploring the icy moons

Mark Fox-Powell is a Research Fellow in AstrobiologyOU. His research focuses on the potential habitability of the deep oceans of the ice-covered moons of the outer solar system. He discussed his career path and work with Ann Grand, Lecturer in Astrobiology Education.

Article
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The first 25 years: OU Renewable Energy Education article icon

Nature & Environment

The first 25 years: OU Renewable Energy Education

Derek Taylor reflects on the 25 years since launching the innovative Open University T521 Renewable Energy Pack for Tertiary Education. This was a revolutionary development for the OU.

Article
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Live long and prosper? article icon

Science, Maths & Technology

Live long and prosper?

How can the crew of the Enterprise walk around and breathe on any planet they encounter?  

Article
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The benefits of a longer product life article icon

Science, Maths & Technology

The benefits of a longer product life

A savvy shift in industrial resourcefulness is reflected in products that last longer, are adaptable, maintainable, and repairable. Such products optimise material value through preventing waste. These design strategies challenge the ways we create, use, and dispose of our everyday stuff. By extending the utility of our products, we reduce ...

Article
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Systems Innovation - An interview with Professor Ray Ison video icon

Society, Politics & Law

Systems Innovation - An interview with Professor Ray Ison

This short video interview taken at Systems Innovation Conference, London with Ray Ison Professor of Systems at The Open University, delves into the world of systems thinking.

Video
10 mins
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Choosing a Cosmic Name article icon

Science, Maths & Technology

Choosing a Cosmic Name

Asteroid number 69423 was named ‘Openuni’ last month, in celebration of the 50th anniversary of The Open University's creation. But how do objects in space get their names?

Article