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Science, Maths & Technology
Geological processes in the British Isles
The landscape of the British Isles has undergone dramatic changes during the history of the Earth, from shallow sea to desert to the familiar terrain of the 21st century. In this free course, Geological processes in the British Isles, you will explore the processes that have shaped the British landscape over time, gaining insight into the ...
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History & The Arts
We shouldn’t judge Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by its cover
Why has the absence of a Quentin Blake illustration in favour of a more grown up image on a 50th birthday edition of Roald Dahl's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory caused outrage?
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Society, Politics & Law
Researching cycling in the US & the UK
Peter Wood shares his experiences researching cyclists - on both sides of the Atlantic.
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Science, Maths & Technology
As Cassini reaches the end, we should prepare the next mission
What Cassini taught us about Saturn's moons is a start. We look back at its amazing journey, and Monica Grady argues we should now be thinking about sending the next probe.
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Science, Maths & Technology
The Material World: On Chesil Beach (getting closer to Titan)
The OU's planetary scientists spend time on Chesil Beach, simulating the surface of Saturn's largest moon, Titan.
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Money & Business
Why is the iPhone X a thousand-dollar gamble?
As it launches a new model, Apple is hoping that its brand will persuade enough people to dig deep into their pockets. Loizos Heracleous explores Apple's thinking.
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History & The Arts
Are movies really getting longer?
You might think movies are getting longer and longer - but the data tells a more interesting story. Evan Stewart orders a large popcorn.
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History & The Arts
Four weird ideas people used to have about women’s periods
Professor of Classical Studies Helen King takes a look at historic beliefs around menstrual periods.
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Science, Maths & Technology
What is the Minamata Convention on Mercury and what does it mean?
In August 2017, a new convention governing the use of Mercury came into force (at least in the countries which have signed up). María Elena Hurtado explains what it means - and why it's only a first step.
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Science, Maths & Technology
What effects does mercury have on health and the environment?
Although in its natural form mercury is not especially toxic, it still poses a real risk when it finds its way into the environment.
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level 2: intermediate icon
Science, Maths & Technology
Migration
Migration is a free course looking at the migrations of animals, with special reference to birds, and also introducing the themes of movement, selection and homeostasis.
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Science, Maths & Technology
Plastic materials, pollution and recycling
What benefits do plastics offer society? What can we do with used plastic to avoid damage to the environment? Simon Collinson investigates...