article icon
Science, Maths & Technology
What is Planetary Protection?
As we explore the Solar System, it is important that we do not accidentally contaminate untouched and unspoilt extraterrestrial environments in any way. This is especially true when searching for evidence of life. This article explores the concept of ‘Planetary Protection’ and why it is critical for the future of space exploration.
free course icon
level 1: introductory icon
Badge icon
Science, Maths & Technology
Understanding autism
Learn about autism, one of the most challenging long-term conditions of the century. This free course, Understanding autism, introduces the autism spectrum, how it is experienced by individuals and families, and why it has become a global concern. The course explains how understanding of the autism spectrum and approaches to diagnosis and care ...
article icon
Science, Maths & Technology
Mycoprotein - could this meat alternative be a food for the future?
How do we feed a growing global population? James McCarron compares the production of mycoprotein to meat. With significantly less impact on the environment than meat, does mycoprotein deserve more recognition?
article icon
Science, Maths & Technology
Food, shelter and re-designing home as a living system
Housing has become the most valuable asset on Earth while people are increasingly going without food and shelter. How can we design for people to have a home, while also regenerating the living systems on which we depend?
article icon
Science, Maths & Technology
Brain Awareness Week
16-22 March is Brain Awareness Week. From our OU PhD students' fascinating research into the brain to new articles with mind-blowing facts, we've got a host of FREE brainy learning materials.
article icon
Science, Maths & Technology
Seven myths of being a female engineer
There is a mountain of myths surrounding the engineering profession – particularly the role of women within the industry.
article icon
Science, Maths & Technology
The selective breeding of dogs
How does the selective breeding of dogs work? Why are poodles and German Shepherds different? What about designer dogs? This science article explores.
article icon
Science, Maths & Technology
DIY: Generate your own electricity
Do you want to make your own electricity? Here's a step-by-step guide to making your own generator.
article icon
Science, Maths & Technology
Co-design approaches
There are many different approaches, methods and tools that can be used to enable co-design at different stages in the process.
article icon
Science, Maths & Technology
A brief introduction to co-design
Co-design is becoming important in the face of complex social, political, environmental, educational and technological issues.
article icon
Science, Maths & Technology
About the Design Hub
Welcome to the Design Hub where you can find out more about design and innovation at The Open University.
free course icon
level 2: intermediate icon
Science, Maths & Technology
Astronomy: images of the Universe
Modern astronomy utilises a range of techniques across the electromagnetic spectrum that allow astronomers to measure the brightness, size and shape of astronomical objects, as well as their structure in many cases. This free course enables you to explore multiwavelength images of the Universe and make your own measurements of stars, nebulae and...