BBC Ideas

Updated Thursday 28th January 2021

BBC Ideas is a collection of short, digital films that aim to inspire new thinking and fresh perspectives across a broad range of topics and contemporary issues. With a growing playlist of titles, the films experiment with playful storytelling styles and techniques - animation, mixed media and an array of different film and video formats.

The Open University and the BBC are collaborating on a distinct OU playlist of films as part of BBC Ideas, drawing the university’s academic expertise to challenge and explore the ideas and concepts that shape our world. Find out more about ‘short films for curious minds’ at https://www.bbc.com/ideas Watch the OU playlist and find free content, articles, games and OU courses related to the films below.

Watch the videos

Watch the videos and find out more about BBC Ideas and the OU's involvement.

The benefits of flexible thinking

Why exposing yourself to new experiences helps you think more flexibly - and enables you to cope better with life's challenges.

The myth of race

Is there any biological basis for categorising humans by race?

Five simple ways to sharpen your critical thinking

The world can feel very polarised and confusing at times. Here are five strategies to boost your critical thinking skills.

The quiet power of leadership

Leaders don’t need to be loud and confident. The Open University’s Dr Jacqueline Baxter makes the case for a quieter approach to leadership.

How to be a good sporting parent

How can you best support your child's sporting activities, without getting over or under-involved?

Could you be suffering from ‘plant blindness’?

Are you unable to appreciate or notice plants in your environment? Here’s what you could be missing out on…

Want to be creative? Apply some limits

Constraints can feel very... limiting. But experts believe they can actually be helpful for creativity - up to a point.

Viewpoint: What would a world without prisons be like?

We take prisons for granted - but how effective are they? Are there better alternatives? A viewpoint from OU criminologist Dr David Scott.

How I went from prisoner to PhD

Stephen Akpabio-Klementowski tells the extraordinary story of how he transformed his life through education.

Four tips from elite sport you can use in everyday life

From talking to yourself to rehearsing your mind, here are four secrets from the world of sport psychology that you can apply to your own life.

Three invaluable tools to boost your resilience

How can we build more resilient societies? And how can you boost your own resilience? Leading resilience expert Lucy Hone shares some tools.

Is it time to reassess our relationship with nature?

Western societies tend to see nature and humanity as separate. But are there other ways of relating to the natural world?

Are you sharing too much online?

For many parents, it’s natural to share images of their children on social media. But is this fair? We explore the ethics of "sharenting".

Can you really multitask? Finally, an answer

Life is pretty hectic. It's hard to know where to focus your attention. Should you be trying to multitask? Or is that a losing battle?

Why your first memory is probably wrong

Our memories are hugely important to our sense of identity. But how accurate are they? Can we really trust them?

Why we see faces in clouds

As we go about our day-to-day lives, we all perceive the world quite differently. But why? How does perception work?

Three ways to spot a conspiracy theory

The list of conspiracy theories is endless. But why - and how - do they take root? There are three key ingredients to look out for.

Have you been fooled by forensics on TV?

We all love to be amateur detectives, but how accurate is forensic evidence on TV? How much is fact – and how much is fiction?

How stories shape our minds

Stories are just stories, right? Not really. They are also incredibly powerful - and can both reduce prejudice, and help persuade.

What would Plato make of referendums?

What is the best form of governance? And where do referendums fit in? Philosopher Lindsey Porter explores Plato's take on it all.

A Visual Journey Through Heaven

Many faiths have a concept of heaven. What might it look or sound like? Here's a journey through some interpretations.

A Visual Journey Through Hell

Many faiths have a concept of hell. What might it look or sound like? Here's a journey through some interpretations.

Wake up! Foucault's warning on fake news

What would Foucault make of today's world? Here's Angie Hobbs, Prof of Public Understanding of Philosophy at the University of Sheffield.

What is flow and how can it help you achieve more?

How tennis players achieve 'flow' - and a few tips on how it can help you too.

What's the point of humiliation?

Why does humiliation exist? And can we turn it to our advantage? Psychotherapist Philippa Perry explores this little-understood emotion.

Why is football so full of cliches?

At the end of the day… the cliche has its merits, argues Football Cliches writer Adam Hurrey.

Why do we love to chant at football matches?

According to experimental psychologist Dr. Daniel Richardson, there's more to it that just hurling abuse at the other team.

Three pioneers who predicted climate change

Dig deeper

Explore these ideas further with our games, videos and articles.

The benefits of flexible thinking

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Constraints in creativity

There has been considerable discussion of what classes as creative. Csikszentmihalyi (1996) defined creativity as something that "happens when someone does something new that is useful, generative, or influential". This implies novelty, which in the context is judged to be surprising, aesthetically, functionally, authentic and involves an act of production the making of something.

Read now ❯Constraints in creativity

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The Psychology of Decision Making

Did you know that your thinking is inherently biased? There could be some surprises in the psychology of decision making.

Read now ❯The Psychology of Decision Making

The myth of race

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Race and place Includes explicit content

How does your background and childhood experiences impact on your sense of identity? Poet Jackie Kay explores through poetry.

Read now ❯Race and place

Diversity and difference in communication

Interpersonal communication in health and social care services is by its nature diverse. As a consequence, achieving good or effective communication whether between service providers and service users, or among those working in a service means taking account of diversity, rather than assuming that every interaction will be the same. This free course, Diversity and difference in communication, explores the ways in which difference and diversity impact on the nature of communication in health and social care services.

Learn more ❯Diversity and difference in communication

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How do children learn the concept of race?

‘Children don’t see colour’ is a phrase we often hear when discussing race – but is this true? Mel Green explores how children conceptualise the idea of race and respond to it.

Read now ❯How do children learn the concept of race?

Five simple ways to sharpen your critical thinking

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The Psychology of Decision Making

Did you know that your thinking is inherently biased? There could be some surprises in the psychology of decision making.

Read now ❯The Psychology of Decision Making

Critical thinking – A skill and a process

To be successful at learning we need to do more than just remember information - critical thinking is essential. Anne Wesemann explains the benefits...

Read now ❯Critical thinking – A skill and a process

Photo by Sicong Li on Unsplash under Creative Commons BY-NC-SA 4.0 license
Sharpening Your Critical Thinking

What can you do to sharpen up your critical thinking? Mark Pinder and Paul-François Tremlett explain a few things to keep in mind when assessing other people’s arguments, and also when offering your own.

Read now ❯Sharpening Your Critical Thinking

The quiet power of leadership - Business and Leadership

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Quiet leadership for a post covid world

The last ten years has seen the rise of populist leaders, characterised by their extroverted ‘style before substance’ self-promotion approach.

Read now ❯Quiet leadership for a post covid world

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An introduction to public leadership

In this free course, An introduction to public leadership, you will learn more about leadership in the context of public service provision, by public sector organisations, community and voluntary groups, and political bodies.

Learn more ❯An introduction to public leadership

How to be a good sporting parent - Sports, Exercise and Coaching

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Top 5 Tips for Sport Parents

Childhood experiences of sport are of key interest to both of us, as part of our roles as researchers as well as being parents ourselves.

Read now ❯Top 5 Tips for Sport Parents

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Being an Olympic Parent: the family behind the athlete

Top athletes typically have teams of coaches, sports scientists, nutritionists, physiotherapists and psychologists working with them around the clock, but at times a simple hug or words of support from mum or dad are invaluable to the athlete.

Read now ❯Being an Olympic Parent: the family behind the athlete

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Making young children give everything to football is a bad idea – here’s why

British football clubs want children to specialise in only football from a young age, but would a multi-sports club produce better players?

Read now ❯Making young children give everything to football is a bad idea – here’s why

Could you be suffering from ‘plant blindness’? - Environmental Sciences

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How you can help the plants near you

Plants are key ecosystem service providers, however relatively little is known about many species of vegetation. But, with the help of enthusiasts working on the National Plant Monitoring Scheme, our knowledge is set to improve.

Read now ❯How you can help the plants near you

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Health and environment

To be able to understand the importance of the environment for our health, we need to know a little about the interdependence between environment and humankind. This free course, Health and environment, will look at interactions between plants, animals and the physical and chemical environment, as well as considering ways in which humans have altered, and are altering this environment.

Learn more ❯Health and environment

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Introducing the environment: Ecology and ecosystems

What is ecology and why is it important to our understanding of the world around us? This free course, Introducing the environment: Ecology and ecosystems, looks at how we can study ecosystems to explore the effect that humans are having on the environment.

Learn more ❯Introducing the environment: Ecology and ecosystems

How limits can boost your creativity - Psychology

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Constraints in creativity

Read now ❯Constraints in creativity

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Panic buying and how to stop it

Dr Volker Patent looks at a tale of emerging norms, signalling and selective information processing.

Read now ❯Panic buying and how to stop it

Making creativity and innovation happen

Creativity and innovation address ways of doing things better and differently. This free course, Making creativity and innovation happen, focuses both on individual creativity – where it comes from and how it can be developed – as well as creativity and the related concept of innovation at an organisational level. It considers how organisations can more effectively tackle the challenges posed by creativity and innovation in order to be more successful.The trailer below explores one aspect that will be covered in the course: the paradox of choice.

Learn more ❯Making creativity and innovation happen

Viewpoint: What would a world without prisons be like? - Criminology

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Does prison work?

Does prison work and what purpose does it serve? This free course allows you to listen to a discussion on the purpose, efficacy and regulation of prisons. Does prison benefit those serving the sentence or simply satisfy a public demand?

Learn more ❯Does prison work?

Image by jraffin from Pixabay under Creative Commons BY-NC-SA 4.0 license
Prison Abolition in Question(s): Part One

Prison abolitionists question the moral and political justifications of imprisonment and call for the radical reduction or elimination of the use of prisons as they are currently constituted. Abolitionists are concerned about the harmfulness that prison causes to those imprisoned, victims, families, prison staff and society at large. They are also concerned with the continued failure of prisons to fulfil any of their stated aims or purposes.

Read now ❯Prison Abolition in Question(s): Part One

Image by jraffin from Pixabay under Creative Commons BY-NC-SA 4.0 license
Prison Abolition in Question(s): Part Two

Read now ❯Prison Abolition in Question(s): Part Two

I went from prisoner to PhD - Criminology

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Radical alternatives to prison

Dr David Scott considers the limitations of conventional prison facilities and proposes a number of radical alternative ways of responding to human wrongdoing.

Read now ❯Radical alternatives to prison

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Should we educate prisoners?

‘Should we educate prisoners?’ is a question that is always implicit in UK penal policy but, rarely ever explicitly addressed. This article addresses this question head-on.

Read now ❯Should we educate prisoners?

Four tips from elite sport you can use in everyday life - Sports, Exercise and Coaching

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Succeed like an athlete!

Many of us view athletes as a breed apart. When you think about how an athlete would prepare for a competition, you might imagine that they have done countless hours of training to ensure that their bodies are physically ready for their event. However, in addition to their physical preparation, many athletes work with psychologists to prepare mentally.

Read now ❯Succeed like an athlete!

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Exploring sport coaching and psychology

This free course, Exploring sport coaching and psychology, investigates how scientific and management ideas contribute to success while also taking you on a journey through unique sporting case studies and insights that will change how you view and study sport. You will consider how the mind, the body, the environment and training techniques all contribute to optimum fitness.

Learn more ❯Exploring sport coaching and psychology

Women in sport

Ever thought about sports and wondered, but what about for a woman? These articles cover specific topics concerning women in sport, considering questions such as, what if Eliod Kipchoge was a woman? Are women leaders the key to growing women’s sport? What about motherhood, what are the challenges in returning to sport or starting up a new sport?

Read now ❯Women in sport

Three invaluable tools to boost your resilience - Health, Wellbeing and Social Care

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Supporting and developing resilience in social work

What does it take to become a resilient practitioner in social work? This free course, Supporting and developing resilience in social work, will guide you through some important concepts. An understanding of ‘emotional resilience’ and ‘professional leadership’ will help to guide you through taking a positive approach to problems that arise in social work practice. You will also be introduced to some ideas about leadership in social work practice.

Learn more ❯Supporting and developing resilience in social work

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Young people and stress, vulnerability and resilience

Is risk and adversity damaging to young people? Not necessarily, writes John Oates...

Read now ❯Young people and stress, vulnerability and resilience

Is it time to reassess our relationship with nature? - Criminology

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Alternative Perspectives to nature

Dr. Eleni Dimou looks at how we have lost our relationality to nature and considers alternative indigenous perspectives that view human beings in connection and complementarity with Mother Earth.

Read now ❯Alternative Perspectives to nature

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Why do birds eat plastic?

The photos of birds killed by bellies full of plastic waste are harrowing - but why do they eat the stuff in the first place? The OU's Miranda Dyson explains.

Read now ❯Why do birds eat plastic?

Allan Hopkins under Creative Commons BY-NC-ND 4.0 license
Can we live harmoniously with wildlife?

In light of a man-eating tiger being killed in The Nilgiris District, India, we need to address human-animal and human-human conflict in our forests.

Read now ❯Can we live harmoniously with wildlife?

Are you sharing too much online? - Psychology

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Sharenting: What is it and are you doing it?

Professor Lisa Lazard looks at the new digital phenomenon that is sharenting and considers whether it's a product of narcissism or societal pressures of parenting.

Read now ❯Sharenting: What is it and are you doing it?

Ellen De Vos under Creative Commons BY 4.0 license
Are selfies a terrible thing?

Is the rise of the selfie a sign of a culture collapsing into narcissism - or is there something positive in the trend of arm's length self portraiture?

Watch now ❯Are selfies a terrible thing?

Can you really multitask? Finally, an answer - Psychology

The Open University under Creative Commons BY-NC-SA 4.0 license
Are you a focused driver?

Take our interactive and find out if you’re alert when behind the wheel. Your attention will be put to the test.

Take part now ❯Are you a focused driver?

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In-car technology: are we being sold a false sense of security?

Our new cars come equipped with technology to read out text messages and let us use voice commands to make phone calls. Allocating attention to other tasks, can lead to our driving performance suffering and putting lives at risk.

Read now ❯In-car technology: are we being sold a false sense of security?

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Hands-free phone tech is dangerous - so why do car firms still promote it?

Using a hands free phone while driving is as dangerous as holding a phone - and yet they're marketed as a desirable extra. Dr Gemma Briggs wonders why.

Read now ❯Hands-free phone tech is dangerous - so why do car firms still promote it?

Why your first memory is probably wrong - Psychology

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Do you have a photographic memory?

Can you hold an image in your mind by just looking at it for a brief amount of time? Try our photographic memory test and see whether you have eidetic memory.

Take part now ❯Do you have a photographic memory?

The Open University under Creative Commons BY-SA 4.0 license
Are you a super recogniser?

Police super-recognisers have an above average ability to recognise faces and have identified a large number of criminals via CCTV footage. Do you possess the skill? Try our quiz to find out.

Take part now ❯Are you a super recogniser?

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PhotoFit Me

Would you make a good eyewitness? Photofit Me explores how we remember faces and challenges you to construct the face of a culprit or to recreate the face of a celebrity or even a friend! Test yourself with our interactive and see how good your face recognition abilities are.

Take part now ❯PhotoFit Me

Why we see faces in clouds - Psychology

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Five smart technologies helping the visually impaired

Cutting-edge research is enabling the development of new potentially life-changing prototypes aimed at serving those with disabilities says, Dr Oliver Zanetti.

Watch now ❯Five smart technologies helping the visually impaired

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Turning face perception on its head

Are you pretty good at reading an expression? Can you recognise a face in a crowd? Watch the video of the 'Head Spin Trick'

Watch now ❯Turning face perception on its head

Making sense of ourselves

This free course, Making sense of ourselves, introduces you to well-known psychological topics by asking and answering everyday questions, such as Why don’t we like one another? Why would I hang around with you? Do you see what I see? What’s the point of childhood? You’ll learn how psychologists can go about addressing these questions using different research tools and approaches.

Learn more ❯Making sense of ourselves

Three ways to spot a conspiracy theory - Psychology

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The psychology of conspiracy theories

From the moon landings being a hoax, to pizzagate, why do people believe sometimes outlandish conspiracy theories? Dr Jovan Byford explores.

Read now ❯The psychology of conspiracy theories

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Psychological research, obedience and ethics

In this free course, Psychological research, obedience and ethics, you will learn about the importance of ethics in research that is undertaken by psychologists. You will read about the famous study on obedience conducted by Stanley Milgram, and watch two psychologists talk about their research with meerkats and chimpanzees.

Learn more ❯Psychological research, obedience and ethics

Investigating psychology

One of the keys to understanding psychology is to know about its history and core questions. This free course, Investigating psychology, allows you to explore psychology using an interactive resource. You can follow links to people, contexts, perspectives and methods to discover information, images and links from across psychology. The resource also links each of these people, contexts, perspectives and methods so you can see how each element is connected in the history of psychology.

Learn more ❯Investigating psychology

Have you been fooled by forensics on TV? - Psychology

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Forensic psychology

In this free course, Forensic psychology, you will discover how psychology can help obtain evidence from eyewitnesses in police investigations and prevent miscarriages of justice.

Learn more ❯Forensic psychology

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Finding the Truth

What do you really know about crime? Try our interactive 'Finding the Truth' to dig way beyond the surface of forensic psychology, corporate crime and the prison system.

Take part now ❯Finding the Truth

The Open University under Creative Commons BY-NC-SA 4.0 license
Crime Scene Officer

Put yourself in a crime scene officer's shoes and try to solve a suspected murder when time and resources are tight. Can you link the suspects to the forensic evidence?

Take part now ❯Crime Scene Officer

How stories shape our minds - Psychology

The Open University under Creative Commons BY-NC-SA 4.0 license
Detecting Deception: Can you spot a liar?

Some money has been stolen - everyone denies taking it but some people are lying. Can you work out who is telling the truth and who is being dishonest? Find out in our interactive...

Take part now ❯Detecting Deception: Can you spot a liar?

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Telling Tales: what is happening on police Facebook sites?

Despite the vast increase in social media use by police forces since the late noughties, there hasn’t been a great deal of published research into these online interactions. Online communication can be an effective way to capture community sentiments regarding police work. With the right investment, it is an exciting opportunity to allow communities and police to work effectively together.

Read now ❯Telling Tales: what is happening on police Facebook sites?

Plato’s take on democracy and referendums - Philosophy

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Sartre: Love is a hazardous, painful struggle

This short animation, narrated by Aidan Turner, shows the conflict and danger of love from Jean-Paul Sartre's perspective.

Watch now ❯Sartre: Love is a hazardous, painful struggle

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What is love, exactly?

Plato considered the question a long time ago... but we're still, perhaps, no nearer an answer.

Read now ❯What is love, exactly?

A Visual Journey Through Heaven - Religious Studies

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Trust in Plato's Republic

Dr Carolyn Price considers the theme of Trust in Plato's work "The Republic".

Read now ❯Trust in Plato's Republic

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Choose your own philosophy adventure

'Castle, Forest, Island, Sea' is a choose-your-own-adventure interactive that explores key questions in philosophy. Where will your chosen path lead you?

Take part now ❯Choose your own philosophy adventure

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Can animals be courageous?

Could it make sense to describe a wild boar as courageous? Or a lion? Or a dog? Many people in the ancient world would certainly have thought so.

Read now ❯Can animals be courageous?

A Visual Journey Through Hell - Art History

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Representations of hell in Christian art

Dr Angeliki Lymberopoulou looks at Christian representations of Hell and how these have been historically used.

Read now ❯Representations of hell in Christian art

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Travelling Objects

Journey around the world in our interactive to discover how 'objects' aren't just merely beautiful art works but can also reveal fascinating histories and global connections.

Take part now ❯Travelling Objects

Maintaining social order with gruesome images of Hell

Angeliki Lymberopoulou, a Lecturer in Art History at The Open University, explains the meaning of a fresco in the church of Kitiros in Crete.

Watch now ❯Maintaining social order with gruesome images of Hell

Wake up! Foucault's warning on fake news - Psychology and Philosophy

The Open University under Creative Commons BY-NC 4.0 license
Social media - fake news, filter bubbles and sharing wisely!

Meet Frank and travel with him on his adventures through the (sometimes foggy) realms of social media. Explore sharing, filter bubbles and fake news- maybe you can learn from Frank's mistakes with the help of Josie Long.

Watch now ❯Social media - fake news, filter bubbles and sharing wisely!

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How private is private?

In modern Western cultures, the notion of privacy is central to our way of thinking. However, the potential that present-day communications and computing systems hold for surveillance is enormous. This OU Business School course extract considers how both society at large and you as an individual are affected.

Read now ❯How private is private?

What is flow and how can it help you achieve more? - Sport coaching and Psychology

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Medal Quest: Can you guide a promising young athlete to championship success?

Can you help a talented child athlete make it all the way to the Olympic finals based on the choices you make for them at key stages in their development? Try our game and find out.

Take part now ❯Medal Quest: Can you guide a promising young athlete to championship success?

The art of performing under pressure

Penalty shoot-outs, 12-foot putts and second-serves are all high pressure moments in football, golf and tennis respectively. How would acclaimed kicking coach Dave Alred train the athletes to succeed in the moment?

Read now ❯The art of performing under pressure

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Champions talk: what makes a champion?

A number of 'serial winners' including Ronnie O’Sullivan, AP McCoy and Dame Sarah Storey talk about the discipline, temperament and focus it takes to become a champion.

Watch now ❯Champions talk: what makes a champion?

What's the point of humiliation? - Philosophy

The Open University under Creative Commons BY-NC-SA 4.0 license
Choose your own philosophy adventure

'Castle, Forest, Island, Sea' is a choose-your-own-adventure interactive that explores key questions in philosophy. Where will your chosen path lead you?

Take part now ❯Choose your own philosophy adventure

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Exploring Philosophy with The Open University

Consider fundamental questions from six core areas of Philosophy: the self; philosophy of religion; ethics; knowledge and science; the mind; and political philosophy.

Watch now ❯Exploring Philosophy with The Open University

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Freedom of speech

Should there be limits to freedom of speech? Professor of Philosophy, Derek Matravers, explores this idea.

Read now ❯Freedom of speech

Why do we love to chant at football matches? - Linguistics and Sport

Football culture: the use of banners

What role do team banners play in the wider context of football culture?

Read now ❯Football culture: the use of banners

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Protest Banners: Hillsborough

Professor Steve Tombs discusses the use of protest banners in response to the Hillsborough Disaster.

Watch now ❯Protest Banners: Hillsborough

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OpenLearn Live: 2018 World Cup Special

You might have noticed that England have made the Semi Finals of the men's World Cup. With football writing 'HOME' on a big piece of cardboard and standing hopefully at the side of road with its thumb out, fight the big match nerves with some calming insights into the world of soccer.

Read now ❯OpenLearn Live: 2018 World Cup Special

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Study desk student learning design technology

Learn with the OU

Take a look at the related qualifications and free courses we offer at The Open University.

The benefits of flexible thinking

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BSc (Honours) Psychology with Counselling

Psychological therapies are rooted in psychological understanding, so this degree provides a strong foundation in psychology with a specific focus on how counselling works and how it can help people change. You'll consider how counsellors and psychologists use theories and evidence to contribute to debates about how we understand mental health conditions, diagnosis and treatment options, and how psychology is critical to understanding mental health, relationships, education and employment.

Learn more ❯BSc (Honours) Psychology with Counselling

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BSc (Honours) Social Psychology

In this degree you'll consider how social psychology can be applied to contemporary life. You'll explore psychology more broadly, gaining insights into people's behaviour. Why do good people do bad things? What role do digital technologies play in our relationships? Has globalisation made people across the world more similar, or do old differences persist? How have gender identities changed? What does it mean to be a good citizen? You'll examine these and many other important psychological questions about the relationship between individual psychology and the complex social world. You'll see how social psychologists use evidence from research to contribute to debates on a wide range of social issues including discrimination and equality, conflict resolution, migration, happiness and well-being. You'll also explore how psychology is critical to understanding employment, mental health, and relationships.

Learn more ❯BSc (Honours) Social Psychology

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BA (Honours) Criminology and Psychology

Criminology and psychology help make sense of crime, criminalisation, criminals and victims. Studying this qualification provides you with a critical understanding of both subjects. You'll be able to question and develop your own beliefs and understandings about crime and harm. You'll consider criminal acts and human motivations, and then look beyond them to examine the social conditions in which crime occurs. You'll relate this to the exercise of power in response to crimes, the nature of conflicts when people interact (individually, in groups or as nations) and how and why societies determine what they will and won't tolerate.

Learn more ❯BA (Honours) Criminology and Psychology

The myth of race

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BA (Honours) Social Sciences (Criminology)

You will need a computer with internet access to study for this qualification. For most OU qualifications a Microsoft Windows (new since 2007), Apple Mac (OS X 10.6 or later) or Linux computer should be adequate. However, some qualifications require more specific IT equipment, in which case you will need additional software to use an Apple Mac or Linux computer. A detailed technical specification for your modules will be made available when you register. Please note, technical specifications do change over time to match computer developments and the way we teach.

Learn more ❯BA (Honours) Social Sciences (Criminology)

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BSc (Honours) Social Psychology

Learn more ❯BSc (Honours) Social Psychology

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Psychology of childhood and youth

This module explores key themes in the development of children through the early years, middle childhood and into adolescence, covering attachment, identity, emotions, representation and communication. The module integrates a range of approaches from developmental psychology and childhood studies, and makes extensive use of audio and video material, including a number of specially made documentary films. The module will be of interest to students of psychology, early years, and childhood and youth, and any student interested in theories and contemporary research in developmental psychology, including the influences of family and culture.

Learn more ❯Psychology of childhood and youth

Five simple ways to sharpen your critical thinking

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BA (Honours) Philosophy and Psychological Studies

Philosophy and psychology seek to answer profound questions about ourselves and our place in the social and physical universe. In this degree you'll investigate a range of philosophical debates about ethics, justice, scientific knowledge, religion, art, and the self. You'll cover the core approaches in social, cognitive and developmental psychology, and some applied aspects of professional practice. You'll learn to read and understand scientific and philosophical texts; use different research methods; communicate clearly and logically; and work and think independently.

Learn more ❯BA (Honours) Philosophy and Psychological Studies

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BA (Honours) Religion, Philosophy and Ethics

In this qualification you'll explore human systems of thought and practice, both 'secular' and 'religious', in ways which allow you to engage with wide-ranging and often controversial issues affecting different cultures and societies. You'll investigate current questions and themes in these disciplines from both historical and contemporary perspectives. This includes the ethics of war, political justice, multiculturalism, religious nationalisms, the 'sanctity of life' and pilgrimage. In engaging with the core disciplines of religious studies and philosophy, you'll develop critical skills and expertise in a range of key approaches and methodologies.

Learn more ❯BA (Honours) Religion, Philosophy and Ethics

BA (Honours) Arts and Humanities

From poetry to string quartets, and from sculpture to short stories, the extraordinary range of human culture offers rich possibilities for study. This broad and absorbing course develops a deep understanding of the world we live in and how we got here, covering a fascinating variety of perspectives, periods and subjects ? including art history, classical studies, creative writing, English language, English literature, history, modern languages, music, philosophy, and religious studies. You'll learn from the OU's world-class academic research, through high quality module materials and engage with fellow students from around the world.

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The quiet power of leadership - Business and Leadership

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An introduction to business and management

This key introductory OU level 1 module provides an accessible and comprehensive introduction to business and management in a globalised world. Through readings and international case studies you'll explore a wide range of topics in contemporary business and management: what motivates people to work; how to assess financial soundness of a business; what attracts customers; how economic crises affect businesses; and ethical challenges in business and management. Using a blend of text, audio video and interactive online activities, you'll develop vital skills for study and for work in business, public or voluntary sector organisations.

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BA (Honours) Business Management (Leadership Practice)

Learn more ❯BA (Honours) Business Management (Leadership Practice)

How to be a good sporting parent - Sports, Exercise and Coaching

BSc (Honours) Sport, Fitness and Coaching

If you're an aspiring or practising leader of sport or fitness activities, this degree will develop your skills and understanding of sports science, psychology, training, coaching and leadership. It will enhance your awareness of your own role, increase your effectiveness at work and develop your communication and analytical skills ? boosting your career prospects. You'll apply science and theory to practice, reflecting on case studies or real and potential work situations. Drawing on video, text and online materials, you'll focus on the all-round physical and psychological needs of sports participants or exercise clients.

Learn more ❯BSc (Honours) Sport, Fitness and Coaching

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Applying sport and exercise sciences to coaching

This module is for sports coaches, exercise professionals and sports enthusiasts. Develop your scientific knowledge, analysis skills, coach-athlete relationships and reflective practice in sport and exercise settings. By investigating and applying aspects of sports science ? including physiology, movement analysis, and strength and conditioning training methods ? you'll enhance your understanding of human movement and performance. Applying sport and exercise science principles to case studies allows you to develop your reflective practice and become a more effective coach. And some options, built into the module, let you to explore areas of interest in greater depth.

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Sport and exercise psychology in action

This module explores topics associated with sport and exercise psychology and introduces you to their relevance to a range of roles, such as coach, athlete, fitness participant or health professional. You'll learn knowledge and skills that can be applied to situations you're familiar with, can inform your practice, and can help you develop both yourself and those you work with.

Learn more ❯Sport and exercise psychology in action

Could you be suffering from ‘plant blindness’? - Environmental Sciences

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BSc (Honours) Biology

Our biology degree is for those inspired by the natural world. Studying with the OU will enable you to gain a deeper understanding of the foundations of life and biological processes involved. Explore diverse subject areas from the cellular and molecular levels to whole organism survival. Biology encompasses all living species, explaining their diversity via evolutionary origins. It defines their anatomy and structure, describes their physiology and behaviour, and provides scientific rationales for their habitat requirements and ecosystem interactions.

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Environmental science

This on-screen module spans biology, chemistry, earth science and physics, drawing them together in a holistic approach to studying the environment. You'll investigate air, water, earth, life and cycles and explore the processes, interactions and feedback mechanisms operating within different environments. Practical experiences provided through multimedia interactive 'virtual' field trip activities and project work allow you to develop skills and apply your learning. By the end, you will be able to make critical analyses of environmental processes and structures, e.g. landforms, soils, water flows and habitats of flora and fauna, and comment on anthropogenic influences and their likely consequences.

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Terrestrial ecosystems

This module considers the interactions between terrestrial organisms and their environments ? that together form ecosystems, ranging from simple microbial communities to tropical rainforests. We could even consider earth as a whole ecosystem. The module will introduce you to key ecosystem concepts, and develop your understanding of the stability and resilience of ecosystems to disturbances such as disease and pollution. You'll learn how ecosystem function depends on exchanges of water, energy and nutrients; and gain practical experience with current research techniques, including real-time monitoring and computer modelling. Finally, you'll gain experience in writing professional-style reports on ecological systems.

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How limits can boost your creativity - Psychology

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BSc (Honours) Psychology

As psychology is the study and science of human behaviour, it touches every aspect of our lives. This degree explores key questions around why we do the things we do and how we interact with others. You'll explore how psychologists use research evidence to contribute to debates on forensic science, mental health, relationships, child development, employment and much more. You'll gain knowledge and understanding of different areas of psychology; develop valuable analytical and communication skills; and enhance your ability to work both independently and collaboratively. This will put you in a strong position when it comes to employment opportunities.

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BA (Honours) Social Sciences (Psychology)

Learn more ❯BA (Honours) Social Sciences (Psychology)

Investigating psychology 1

Drawing on a wide range of studies and some classic pieces of psychological research, this OU level 1 module provides an accessible and engaging introduction to the study of psychology. You'll explore the different ways in which psychologists investigate the human mind and behaviour, and find out how psychological research addresses real-life issues with an opportunity to conduct a psychological study of your own. You'll be provided with two textbooks and access to a comprehensive website containing an online study guide, audio-visual material and interactive activities which are designed to help you develop your knowledge and skills.

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Viewpoint: What would a world without prisons be like? - Criminology

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BA (Honours) Social Sciences (Criminology)

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BA (Honours) Criminology and Psychology

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MA in Crime and Justice

This masters degree explores new perspectives and ways of thinking about crime, harm and justice. It is concerned with examining problematic areas of social life, transgression, 'crime', social harm and justice. You will consider the significance of power, social structure, and economic and social inequalities in understanding 'crime', and processes of criminalisation in local, transnational and global contexts. Studying this qualification will enhance your ability to think critically about problems of crime, social harm and the delivery of justice.

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I went from prisoner to PhD - Criminology

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BA (Honours) Criminology and Sociology

Building on the OU's reputation for cutting-edge criminological and sociological teaching and research, this joint degree offers you the chance to study lively, topical and sometimes controversial subject matter. You'll investigate questions of crime, criminalisation and social harm to determine whether society's responses to these questions are adequate and appropriate. You'll also explore how social worlds are made and how we, as individuals, are shaped by the societies in which we live.

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BA (Honours) Criminology and Law

Crime, justice and the workings of the law are matters that affect us all and often dominate the news. This degree takes a critical and analytical view of the role and functions of the legal system, and examines its relationship with crime, harm criminal justice. You'll learn to apply research tools, and access and evaluate qualitative and quantitative data on crime, victimisation and the societal responses to them. With an appreciation of criminological theorising and evidence, you will develop the skills to comment on crime, victimisation, and responses to crime and deviance, including policy questions, at national, international and global levels. You'll gain the ability to critically assess everyday understandings of crime, harm and criminal justice, the social, political, economic, historical and ethical dimensions of law, as well as gain knowledge of the key institutions which make up criminal justice and legal systems.

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BA (Honours) Criminology

Our honours degree programme in criminology focuses on cutting edge, topical and often controversial criminological issues. You'll learn to apply research tools, and access and evaluate qualitative and quantitative data on crime, victimisation and the societal responses to them. With an appreciation of criminological theorising and evidence, you will develop the skills to comment on crime, victimisation, and responses to crime and deviance, including policy questions, at national, international and global levels.

Learn more ❯BA (Honours) Criminology

Four tips from elite sport you can use in everyday life - Sports, Exercise and Coaching

BSc (Honours) Sport, Fitness and Coaching

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Diploma of Higher Education in Sport and Fitness

This diploma will help put you on track for a career in fitness training, sports coaching or similar roles. It will develop work-related and academic skills to enhance your performance; and explore the key principles of sports science, psychology, training, coaching and leadership. You'll apply your learning to practice, focusing on meeting participants' physical and psychological needs. By the end of the course, you'll be a more effective, reflective practitioner and you'll be well on the way to a degree.

Learn more ❯Diploma of Higher Education in Sport and Fitness

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Introduction to sport and fitness

This key introductory module is for you if you have a general or professional interest in sport, recreation and fitness. It will provide you with a sound knowledge of some of the key underpinning concepts within sport and fitness, including: the organisation of sports/fitness provision in the UK; the benefits of physical activity; fitness training principles; nutrition; and a range of contemporary issues. You'll be able to apply your understanding to your own participation in sport or exercise, or to careers in the field ? such as exercise instruction, sports coaching or PE teaching.

Learn more ❯Introduction to sport and fitness

Three invaluable tools to boost your resilience - Health, Wellbeing and Social Care

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BSc (Honours) Healthcare and Health Science

This degree will provide you with some of the essential skills required for working in health and health science settings, providing you with the ability to apply evidence-based scientific methodology to health-related issues. The combination of healthcare and health science topics will equip you with a broad understanding of the range of debates about the provision of healthcare, as well as enabling you to evaluate the relationship between scientific and social understandings about the promotion of health.

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BA (Honours) Health and Social Care

This degree provides you with a sound and critical understanding of the health and social care policy, theory and practice, essential in today's fast-changing care sector. Professionals at all levels need to be proactive and flexible to succeed, and through your studies you'll gain the skills needed for effective practice in a diverse, multidisciplinary environment. You'll learn how ethical, legal, social, economic and political factors influence the provision and development of services. You will also develop the critical and analytical skills that underpin evidence-based practice.

Learn more ❯BA (Honours) Health and Social Care

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Critical issues in health and wellbeing

Imagine a world in which everyone feels safe, valued for who they are, and is able to participate with confidence in society in a way which supports their health and wellbeing. This module considers what the health and social care system of this type of society would look like and what would need to be in place for staff and service users to successfully work within it. To allow you to explore these issues you will be introduced to contemporary material and theories that explore how health and wellbeing can be affected by factors at individual, relational and society level.

Learn more ❯Critical issues in health and wellbeing

Is it time to reassess our relationship with nature? - Criminology

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BA (Honours) Criminology

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Environment: journeys through a changing world

Our world is changing fast ? we are experiencing pressure from climate change, growing demands for finite resources, biodiversity loss and the extinction of many plants and animals. introduces you to subjects from the natural sciences, social sciences and technology to develop your understanding of environmental issues and sustainability concerns. It shows how people are seeking positive solutions to environmental challenges where you live, in the Arctic, Africa, the Amazon and China. You do not need any prior environmental knowledge to study this key introductory OU level 1 module, just an interest in the future of our planet.

Learn more ❯Environment: journeys through a changing world

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Environment: sharing a dynamic planet

Environmental issues pose challenges. What are the biophysical and social causes of environmental change? What exactly is an environmental issue and why are they often controversial and difficult to resolve? How can we make a difference? You'll address all of these questions as you explore four key global environmental concerns ? life, water, carbon, and food ? through a rich and interactive set of study materials. As you do so, you'll develop a distinctive way of thinking about environments and environmental issues that draws on the insights of both natural and social sciences to be at once intellectually innovative and practically relevant.

Learn more ❯Environment: sharing a dynamic planet

Are you sharing too much online? - Psychology

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BA (Honours) Social Sciences (Psychology)

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BSc (Honours) Cyber Security

Our cyber security degree combines three sought after streams of computing: networking, cyber security and digital forensics. It gives you a thorough understanding of socio-technical systems and skills to prevent or respond to cyber security incidents. And develops your ability to critically analyse and apply digital solutions to security examination and digital forensic investigations. This includes an appreciation of tools, techniques and legal requirements. The degree programme, with its well-balanced theory and practice, has a strong technical focus. You'll develop your understanding of how networked cyber systems function and how they might be abused. The course centres around the relationship between technology, people, processes, the physical environment and cyber security. You'll be able to pursue a wide array of career pathways within the public, private and charity sectors.

Learn more ❯BSc (Honours) Cyber Security

Evaluating psychology: research and practice

This module examines how cognitive, social, counselling and forensic psychology research fosters understanding and helps to solve real-world problems in three domains - the home, workplace and society. In this module, you'll focus on socially relevant topics that showcase the research and methodological expertise of the School of Psychology. You'll become equipped to evaluate psychological knowledge claims, theories, research (studies and methods) and applications, creating educated consumers/commissioners of psychological research. You'll also have the opportunity to engage in an independent project. By the end of the module, you'll have gained the confidence to use advanced psychological knowledge to participate in public debate and policy development.

Learn more ❯Evaluating psychology: research and practice

Can you really multitask? Finally, an answer, Why your first memory is probably wrong and Why we see faces in clouds - Psychology

Investigating psychology 1

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BSc (Honours) Psychology

Learn more ❯BSc (Honours) Psychology

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MSc in Psychology

This masters degree provides a valuable opportunity to gain an advanced understanding of a range of areas in psychology, including cognitive, social, forensic and counselling psychology. You'll develop critical appraisal skills in the evaluation of psychological research and practice. You will also gain an understanding of the reciprocal relationship psychological research has with medicine, public policy, public opinion and the media. Completing this rigorous masters degree will enable you to source, select and review psychological research independently, evaluate its relevance for complex real life issues, assess its validity, and clearly communicate your findings to a range of different audiences.

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Three ways to spot a conspiracy theory - Psychology

Investigating psychology 1

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BSc (Honours) Psychology

Learn more ❯BSc (Honours) Psychology

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Diploma of Higher Education in Psychology

This diploma provides an accessible and engaging introduction to studying psychology. You'll learn about core areas of psychology, including biological, cognitive, developmental and social psychology. You'll explore a range of research methods used by psychologists and conduct psychological research of your own, writing up the associated research reports as part of your assignments. You'll see how psychologists use evidence to contribute to debates on ageing, crime, education, employment, forensic science, mental health and relationships; and choose options to suit your particular interests.

Learn more ❯Diploma of Higher Education in Psychology

Have you been fooled by forensics on TV? - Psychology

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BSc (Honours) Forensic Psychology

What makes people do harm to others? What is a psychopath? How do you conduct an intervention with someone convicted of a violent crime, or help someone who has been the victim of crime? This degree explores these and many other important psychological questions relating to crime and justice. You'll examine how forensic psychologists use evidence derived from research to contribute to debates and policy on crime, policing, criminal justice and rehabilitation; and how psychology is critical to understanding education, employment, mental health, and relationships.

Learn more ❯BSc (Honours) Forensic Psychology

Investigating psychology 1

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MSc in Forensic Psychological Studies

This masters degree enables you to gain an advanced understanding of the fascinating area of forensic psychology, while enhancing your analytical and communication skills, and your research literacy. Taking a case-based approach where you examine real life criminal cases you'll learn about a broad range of topics relevant to forensic psychology. You'll develop an understanding of the relationship this field of research has with law enforcement, legal practice, policy, public opinion and the media. You'll also develop your critical analytical skills and your understanding of the principles driving different research methods. By completing this qualification you'll be able to source, select and review forensic psychological research independently, evaluate its relevance for complex real life issue/cases, assess its validity and clearly communicate your findings to a range of audiences.

Learn more ❯MSc in Forensic Psychological Studies

How stories shape our minds - Psychology

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Social psychology and politics

Why are social psychologists interested in politics, and how can they help us understand things like social movements, protest and activism? This free course, Social psychology and politics, moves away from a state-centric study of politics and, using insights from social psychology, explores the role of identity, personality and culture for political action. The course introduces a critical perspective considering how psychologists themselves can be activists and interrogating the norms of ‘good citizenship’ in Western societies.

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Investigating forensic psychology

This module follows several criminal cases to explore forensic psychology and its application to understanding, preventing, and detecting crime. Topics include investigative decision making, witness memory, profiling, lie detection, terrorism, violent crime, sexual offences and cybercrime. You'll explore how psychological research is conducted and applied, critically evaluate its contribution to practice, and learn to communicate this to lay audiences. This module suits students who work in related areas, want to extend their knowledge in forensic psychology, and are not pursuing BPS accreditation in forensic psychology. While advantageous, you do not have to have a psychology degree to study this module.

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BA (Honours) Criminology and Sociology

Learn more ❯BA (Honours) Criminology and Sociology

Plato’s take on democracy and referendums - Philosophy

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Introducing philosophy

Ever wondered what it would be like to study philosophy? This free course, Introducing philosophy, will introduce you to the teaching methods employed and the types of activities and assignments you would be asked to undertake should you wish to study philosophy and the human situation.

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Diploma of Higher Education in Philosophy and Psychological Studies

Philosophy and psychology seek to answer profound questions about ourselves and our place in the social and physical universe. This diploma explores a range of philosophical debates about ethics, justice, scientific knowledge, religion and the self. It introduces core approaches in social, cognitive and developmental psychology, and some applied aspects of professional practice. You'll learn to read and understand scientific and philosophical texts; to use different research methods; and to communicate clearly and logically.

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BA (Honours) Arts and Humanities (Philosophy)

Learn more ❯BA (Honours) Arts and Humanities (Philosophy)

A Visual Journey Through Heaven - Religious Studies

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BA (Honours) Social Sciences (Religious Studies)

This is one of several specialist routes available in our BA (Honours) Social Sciences (R23) degree.

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Exploring religion: places, practices, texts and experiences

This module offers an accessible and cutting-edge introduction to the study of religions, exploring places, practices, texts and experiences.

Religion is not necessarily what you think it is! This free course, Religious diversity: rethinking religion, introduces you to a selection of the vast variety of religious beliefs and practices in Britain today. Having some familiarity with religion and belief is increasingly required to make sense of issues of local, national and international importance. The course will introduce you to issues and skills necessary for better understanding and interacting with religiously-motivated people in today’s world. It will explore some religious places and practices and will give more confidence to interact with contemporary religious diversity in an informed way.

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A Visual Journey Through Hell - Art History

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BA (Honours) Arts and Humanities (Art History)

The degree starts by developing your understanding of the world we live in through a variety of perspectives, periods and subjects – including art history, classical studies, creative writing, English language, English literature, history, modern languages, music, philosophy and religious studies.

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BA (Honours) Art History and Visual Cultures

This degree will equip you with the knowledge and critical skills to understand the histories and theories of visual, material and spatial cultures. This will be a rich and rounded experience as you go beyond the contextual study of art, architecture and design. You'll explore the power of images to influence debates, both historically and in the present day, and develop transferable skills in visual literacy. As you progress you'll acquire critical skills that address the subject area’s place in the wider humanities and as a component of study in the creative or cultural industries.

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Wake up! Foucault's warning on fake news - Psychology and Philosophy

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BA (Honours) Philosophy and Psychological Studies

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MA Philosophy part 2

The module will complete your study for the MA in Philosophy. You'll study: the emotions, Nietzsche, Michel Foucault and Hannah Arendt, and 'the problem of dirty hands'. Your tutor will help you build on your capacity for independent research, and you will have ample opportunity to liaise with fellow-students online. The tutorial strategy, which involves both tutors and module team authors, will encourage independent thought using the huge range of online books and articles available via the OU Library. Finally, you will be able to complete a dissertation on a topic of your choice, provided it is linked to at least one of the topics studied on the MA.

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Advancing social psychology

This module focuses on contemporary UK society and life as a 21st century person in a changing world.

What is flow and how can it help you achieve more? - Sport Coaching and Psychology

BSc (Honours) Sport, Fitness and Coaching

Learn more ❯BSc (Honours) Sport, Fitness and Coaching

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Sport and exercise psychology: a case study approach

In this module you will explore common psychological issues in sport and exercise, and learn to recognise situations where psychological theory can be applied in real-life cases.

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Learn more ❯Exploring sport coaching and psychology

What's the point of humiliation? - Philosophy

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BA (Honours) Philosophy and Psychological Studies

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Exploring Philosophy

Does God exist? Why should I act morally? Can I trust science? Should I obey laws I disagree with? Discover how philosophers have offered radically diverging answers to these and other questions.

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The body: A phenomenological psychological perspective

The body has traditionally been treated as a biological object in psychology. However, is there more to our bodies than that? Some psychologists recognise that we relate to other people and the world about us through our body. This free course, The body: A phenomenological psychological perspective, explores the theoretical perspective on embodiment: the phenomenological psychological perspective.

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Why is football so full of cliches? and Why do we love to chant at football matches? - Linguistics and Language

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BA (Honours) Language Studies

This flexible degree allows you to study two modern languages ? from French, German and Spanish ? or to combine one of them with English. Learning a language and about how languages work (including English) opens doors to other cultures and communities, and gives you experience of the world that goes deeper than the average tourist trip. It can also provide a key to the global workplace. By the end of your studies, you'll understand how language is structured and used in different contexts and be an effective and culturally aware communicator ? attributes that are increasingly valuable in today's global environment.

Learn more ❯BA (Honours) Language Studies

BA (Honours) English Language and Literature

If you love the written and spoken word, this course is for you. A comprehensive and stimulating introduction to English language and literature, it investigates how the English language is used in a variety of global contexts, and explores literature from different historical periods and in diverse cultural settings. You'll explore writing and speech in a wide range of forms, and develop your skills in the interpretation of literary and non-literary texts.

Learn more ❯BA (Honours) English Language and Literature

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Introducing English language studies

Language is an essential part of being human. It's something we rely on in almost every part of our lives. Nevertheless, do we really know what it is and how it works?

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Meet the OU experts

Meet the academic consultants on the BBC Ideas videos.

The Open University under Creative Commons BY-NC-SA 4.0 license Dr Volker Patent – Lecturer in Psychology, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences - The benefits of flexible thinking

Dr Volker Patent obtained his PhD in 2015 from the Open University. He is a Chartered Psychologist and has held faculty positions at Bedfordshire University and worked freelance as a trainer, consultant and assessment specialist in industry. He is also a practising life coach and Firewalking instructor. His research interests focus on trust and personality, trust in selection/recruitment, mentoring and coaching, trust in individual and organisational decision-making and trust in politics.

Find out more about Dr Volker Patent

Copyright: Dr Lystra Hagley–Dickinson Dr Lystra Hagley–Dickinson Staff tutor in Criminology, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences – The myth of race

I joined the OU as a practicing criminologist with over 20 years of knowledge, having undertaken research into prison administration and alternatives to custody. I've worked as an academic and criminal justice professional with experience at Her Majesty's Prison Service, Probation Service, and Community Safety Partnerships.

My career has been underpinned by a focus on criminology, teaching, and learning combined with strategic leadership, management, and mentoring staff and students in HE.

Find out more about Dr. Lystra Hagley-Dickinson

Copyright: Dr Mark Pinder image Dr Mark Pinder – Lecturer in Philosophy, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences – Is race a myth? & Five simple ways to sharpen your critical thinking

I received my PhD from Bristol University in 2014 and joined The Open University in 2018 as a Lecturer in Philosophy. My PhD research was on the logical paradoxes.

More recently, I’ve been working in the field of philosophical methodology, with an interest in conceptual engineering. My research has been published in Mind, Philosophical Studies, Synthese, and elsewhere.

I have lectured on a wide range of topics, including epistemology, logic, metaphysics, philosophy of language, and political philosophy.

Find out more about Dr. Mark Pinder

Copyright: Paul-Francois Tremlett Dr Paul-Francois Tremlett– Senior Lecturer in Religious Studies, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences – Five simple ways to sharpen your critical thinking

I graduated from the School of Oriental and African Studies in Social Anthropology and the Study of Religions, before continuing my studies in a PhD programme in the Study of Religions department at SOAS.

I am interested in classical and contemporary anthropological and sociological theories of religion, and the broad constitution of religion as a site of study in societies experiencing rapid social change.

Find out more about Dr. Paul-Francois Tremlett

Copyright: Dr Jacqueline Baxter Dr Jacqueline Baxter– Lecturer in Public Policy and Management, Faculty of Business and Law – The quiet power of leadership

I have been working for the OU for 10 years and during this time have held a variety of academic roles. My current role is as Director for the Centre of Innovation in Online Business and Legal Education, and my research interests lie in the area of public service policy, management, and accountability, I have a particular interest in education.

Find out more about Jacqueline Baxter

Copyright: jessica pinchbeck Jessica Pinchbeck – Senior Lecturer in Sport and Fitness, Faculty of Wellbeing, Education & Language Studies – How to be a good sporting parent

Jessica's research interests lie within the psychological and sociological aspects of the influence of the family within sport participation. She is currently undertaking a PhD investigating the role of the family in women's sport participation.

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Copyright: Candice Lingam-Willgoss Candice Lingam-Willgoss – Programme leader in Sport and Fitness, Faculty of Wellbeing, Education & Language Studies – How to be a good sporting parent

Candice's research interests lie within the areas of sport and exercise psychology and more recently career trajectories in various sports. She is currently studying for her PhD which is a qualitative study looking at the transitional experiences of elite sportswomen from high risk sports.

Find out more about Candice Lingam-Willgoss

Copyright: Dr Kadmiel Maseyk Dr Kadmiel Maseyk – Senior Lecturer in Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics – Could you be suffering from ‘plant blindness’?

I am a plant physiological ecologist, interested in how plant function affects ecosystem carbon and water cycles. I have a strong interest in plant and ecosystem responses to environmental variability and global change processes. My work is predominantly field based and has covered environments from the poles to the tropics.

Find out more about Kadmiel Maseyk

The Open University under Creative Commons BY-NC-SA 4.0 license Dr Volker Patent – Lecturer in Psychology, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences - How limits can boost your creativity

I am a Chartered Psychologist with emphases in business psychology and coaching. I work freelance as a part-time coach and am open to working with individuals or organisations developing their assessment and development activities and conducting applied research in organisational trust. Previous projects involved developing and designing commercial and bespoke assessment solutions in the industry, providing consultancy in assessment centre design and recruitment in difficult to recruit professions, and redesigning funding schemes for public engagement.

Find out more about Volker Patent

Copyright: Dr David Scott Dr David Scott – Senior Lecturer in Criminology, Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences – Viewpoint: What would a world without prisons be like?

David is a former member of the steering committee of the Reclaim Justice Network. He was a founding member of the abolitionist penal pressure group No More Prison and for a number of years was an ambassador for Make Justice Work. He has been a campaigner against penal injustice for more than twenty years and has published eleven books.

Find out more about David Scott

Copyright: Dr Deborah Drake Dr Deborah Drake – Head of Discipline in Social Policy and Criminology, Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences – Viewpoint: What would a world without prisons be like?

Dr Deborah Drake is a lecturer in criminology at The Open University.

Her research has mainly focused on prisons, specifically in the areas of resettlement, maximum-security and long-term imprisonment, and secure settings for children.

Find out more about Deborah Drake

Copyright: Daniel McCulloch, The Open University Dr Daniel McCulloch – Lecturer Criminology & Social Policy, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences – I went from prisoner to PhD

Daniel McCulloch joined The Open University as a Lecturer in Criminology and Social Policy in 2015. His research interests relate to the understandings of 'marginalised' populations, as well as critical evaluation of methodological claims.

Find out more about Daniel McCulloch

Copyright: BBC Stephen Akpabio-Klementowski – Associate Lecturer in Criminology, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, PhD Candidate in Criminology – I went from prisoner to PhD

Stephen Akpabio-Klementowski joined The Open University in 2015 as a Regional Manager for the Students in Secure Environments team. Stephen is also an associate lecturer in criminology and a PhD candidate with a research interest in higher education in prison.

Find out more about Stephen Akpabio Klementowski

Copyright: Simon Penn Simon Penn – Lecturer in Sport, Exercise and Coaching, Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Languages – Four tips from elite sport you can use in everyday life

Simon’s specialist areas include exercise prescription and physiology. Previously a tutor and member of the former Register of Exercise Professionals’, Simon has successfully delivered exercise prescription to a wide range of individuals ranging from sedentary to elite populations.

Find out more about Simon Penn

Copyright: Dr Nichola Kentzer Dr Nichola Kentzer – Lecturer in Sport, Exercise and Coaching, Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Languages – Four tips from elite sport you can use in everyday life

Dr Nichola Kentzer’s specialist area is sport psychology. She is a British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES) accredited and Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registered Sport Psychologist and has provided sport psychology support to a wide range of performers.

Find out more about Nichola Kentzer

Copyright: Jenny Douglas, The Open University Dr Jenny Douglas – Senior Lecturer in Health Promotion, Faculty of Wellbeing, Education & Language Studies – Three invaluable tools to boost your resilience

Dr Jenny Douglas’ interdisciplinary research approach brings together sociology, public health and women’s studies. Her commitment to comparative approaches finds expression not only in working across disciplinary and national boundaries but also across theoretical and methodological traditions. Her research is both varied and wide-ranging spanning 30 years on issues of race, health, gender and ethnicity.

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Copyright: Sara Mackian, The Open University Dr Sara MacKian – Senior Lecturer in Health & Wellbeing, Faculty of Wellbeing, Education & Language Studies – Three invaluable tools to boost your resilience

Dr Sara Mackian’s research is wide-ranging with a reoccurring theme of curiosity for how people and organisations interact around issues of health and wellbeing. She is particularly interested in how worlds of experience change as a result of life-course challenges. Using social sciences and art combined, Dr Sara Kackian explores the relationship between the real and the imaginary, the body and the spirit, this world and the otherworldly.

Find out more about Sara Mackian

Copyright: Eleni Dimou, The Open University Dr Eleni Dimou - Lecturer in Criminology, Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences - Is it time to reassess our relationship with nature?

Dr Eleni Dimou conducts research on issues around power and resistance. She particularly focuses on processes of criminalisation and also on the harms and crimes illuminated when looking at how forms of power constructed during colonialism still perpetuate today. In terms of resistance, she focuses on music subcultures, countercultures and social movements.

Find out more about Eleni Dimou

Copyright: Lisa Lazard Dr Lisa Lazard - Head of Discipline & Senior Lecturer in Psychology, Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences - Are you sharing too much online?

As a social psychologist, my academic interests broadly lie in the study of identity and subjectivities within contemporary landscapes. My research interests include the curation of self and identities online, particularly through posted digital photography. I am particularly interested in gender and how gendered identifications become located within relations of power. I have studied these issues in relation two broad areas – sexual harassment and digital cultures.

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Copyright: Lisa Lazard Dr Rose Capdevila - Senior Lecturer in Psychology, Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences - Are you sharing too much online?

My research focus is on social media and gendered spaces including research from how young women make sense of themselves online through to the use of selfies to mothering on and offline and practices such as ‘sharenting’. I take a critical feminist and poststructuralist approach to my research with a focus on the construction and transgression of discursive boundaries around identity - in particular political and gender identities.

Find out more about Rose Capdevila

Copyright: Gemma Briggs, The Open University Dr Gemma Briggs - Senior Lecturer in Psychology, Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences - Can you really multitask? Finally, an answer

I am an applied cognitive psychologist with a specific interest in attention and perception. My research is focused on how we pay attention in different real-world settings, including both driving and witnessing crimes.

I have written for The Conversation, the OU’s HERC blog, the Centre for Policing Research and Learning (CPRL) and for the road safety charity, Brake. I have been interviewed about my research on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme and for ‘More or Less’

Find out more about Gemma Briggs

Copyright: Graham Pike, The Open University Professor Graham Pike - Professor of Forensic Cognition, Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences - Why your first memory is probably wrong, Why we see faces in clouds

I am a Professor of Forensic Cognition at The OU. I’ve worked with more than 25 UK police organisations on improving witness evidence and visual identification procedures using an applied cognitive psychology approach. This work has led to changes in policing practice and UK legislation, and helped develop internationally leading investigative technologies such as E-FIT.

I have led the development of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in psychology and forensic psychology, created a free course on Openlearn as well as working on many other university courses on criminology and psychology.

I was an academic consultant on various broadcast programmes, including the BBC2 series ‘Eyewitness’ and I’ve worked on various exhibitions, including exhibitions at the Science Museum and National Portrait Gallery. I regularly create online content, examples include Photofit Me, OU Brainwave and Finding the truth, an interactive that explores forensic psychology, corporate crime and the prison system.

Find out more about Graham Pike

Jovan Byford | The Open University under Creative Commons BY-NC-SA 4.0 license Dr Jovan Byford - Senior Lecturer in Psychology, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences - Three ways to spot a conspiracy theory

My main research interests lie in the interdisciplinary study of social and psychological aspects of shared beliefs and social remembering, especially in relation to conspiracy theories, antisemitism and Holocaust remembrance.

I led the production of DE100 Exploring Psychology 1, one of the most popular modules at The Open University, attracting over 7,000 students a year and I have also written two books on conspiracy theories: Conspiracy Theories A Critical Introduction (2011) and Conspiracy Theories: Serbia vs. the New World Order (2006).

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Jim Turner | The Open University under Creative Commons BY-NC-SA 4.0 license Dr Jim Turner - Lecturer in Psychology, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences - Have you been fooled by forensics on TV?

Jim has been researching and teaching in applied cognitive and forensic psychology since 1997, first at the University of Westminster where he completed his PhD and then, since 2006, at The Open University. He has worked on a number of OU modules across the psychology curriculum, including producing ‘Living psychology: from the everyday to the extraordinary’ (DD210), ‘Forensic psychology: crime, offenders and policing’ (D872) and ‘Investigating forensic psychology’ (DD802).

Find out more about Dr Jim Turner

David Bloomfield | The Open University under Creative Commons BY-NC-SA 4.0 license Dr Zoe Walkington - Senior Lecturer in Psychology, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences - How stories shape our minds

Zoe is a Senior Lecturer in Psychology, a Chartered Psychologist, and works in the Centre for Policing Research and Learning at the Open University. Zoe regularly provides training to detectives on the psychology of interviewing police suspects. Zoe has research interests in how people make us of stories in communication.

Find out more about Dr Zoe Walkington

Copyright: Manuel Dries Dr Manuel Dries - Head of Philosophy, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences - What's the point of humiliation?, Plato’s take on democracy and referendums?

Manuel Dries (MPhil PhD Cantab) is currently Head of Philosophy at The Open University. He focuses on questions at the interface between metaphysics, ethics, aesthetics, and the philosophy of mind. He has a particular interest in Post-Kantian European Philosophy and its contributions to contemporary debates in those fields. He has lectured in Cambridge and Oxford before coming to the OU, and recently taught at China’s Tongji University, Shanghai (Feb 2017) and Renmin University, Beijing (July 2017). He has been a module team member of the interdisciplinary module A207 From Enlightenment to Romanticism c.1780–1830 (Deputy Chair 2014–16), and A333: Key Questions in Philosophy (Module Chair 2016–18). He is a contributing author to the new MA in Philosophy (F30) on Nietzsche’s Genealogy of Morality (A854 Philosophy MA Part II). In 2016 he acted as Lead Academic on the BBC's Genius of the Modern World: Nietzsche, first shown in June 2016.

Find out more about Manuel Dries

Copyright: Angeliki Lymberopoulou Dr Angeliki Lymberopoulou - Senior Lecturer in Art History, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences - A Visual Journey Through Hell

Angeliki Lymberopoulou's research interests include the heritage of Byzantine art in the Renaissance period. Furthermore, with Prof. Dr Vasiliki Tsamakda, she is co-managing the Leverhulme funded International Networks project, which examines the representations of hell on Cretan frescoes from the thirteenth to seventeenth centuries.

Find out more about Angeliki Lymberopoulou

Copyright: Suzanne Newcombe Dr Suzanne Newcombe - Lecturer in Religious Studies, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences - A Visual Journey Through Heaven

Suzanne Newcombe is interested in the interfaces between religion, health and healing. She is currently working half-time on a project funded by the European Research Council (Horizon 2020) entitled ‘Medicine, Immortality and Moksha: Entangled Histories of Yoga, Ayurveda and Alchemy in South Asia’ where she is focusing on overlaps between yoga, ayurveda and Indian alchemy in the modern period. Her research focuses on ideas about immortality, rejuvenation practices and the medical interventions of sadhus.

Find out more about Suzanne Newcombe

Copyright: Photo by Elmer Professor Paul Stenner - Professor of Social Psychology, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences - Wake up! Foucault's warning on fake news

Paul Stenner works with process approaches to Psychosocial issues. He has published work in numerous fields including the emotions, human rights, quality of life and active ageing. He is currently interested in 'liminal' experiences where people find themselves in transition 'betwixt and between' different identities and positions. His most recent book is called Liminality and experience: a transdisciplinary approach to the psychosocial (Palgrave, 2017)

Find out more about Paul Stenner

Copyright: Cristina Chimisso Dr Cristina Chimisso - Senior Lecturer in Philosophy, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences - Wake up! Foucault's warning on fake news

Cristina Chimisso is a historian of philosophy, with particular interest in philosophy of science and historiography. She has written extensively on twentieth-century French philosophy, including a monograph on the philosopher Gaston Bachelard (Routledge 2001) and Writing the History of the Mind: science and philosophy in France 1900-1960s (Ashgate 2008). At the OU she has written teaching material at all levels for Philosophy and interdisciplinary modules. Recently, she has contributed to the MA in Philosophy with a Block on Power, which is focussed on Michel Foucault and Hannah Arendt.

Find out more about Cristina Chimisso

Copyright: jessica pinchbeck Jessica Pinchbeck - Sport and Fitness Lecturer, Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies - What is flow and how can it help you achieve more?

Jessica is a Sport and Fitness lecturer at the Open University. She has worked as an academic at the university since October 2011. Prior to that she worked as an associate lecturer at the Open University and as a lecturer in sport and exercise science within the FE sector. Jessica's specialist area includes the topics of youth sport participation and the influence of the family in sport. Jessica is currently undertaking her PhD investigating the role of the family in women's participation in club sport. Follow the Sport and Fitness qualification team on Twitter. Read the Sport and Fitness team blog.

Find out more about Jessica Pinchbeck

Copyright: karen howells Dr Karen Howells - Sport and Fitness Lecturer, Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies - What is flow and how can it help you achieve more?

Karen is a Lecturer in Sport and Fitness as part of the Faculty of Education and Languages at the Open University. Karen’s specialist area is sport and performance psychology. She is a Chartered Sport Psychologist with the British Psychological Society (BPS) and is registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). She regularly provides sport and performance psychology support to athletes from a wide range of individual and team sports competing at a variety of levels. She has also delivered non-technical skills to teams within the Oil and Gas Industry and is an ex-Royal Air Force Officer. She is also a UKCC Level 2 swimming coach and currently coaches in voluntary and paid positions.

Find out more about Karen Howells

Copyright: Frank Monaghan Dr Frank Monaghan - Staff Tutor in the School of Languages and Applied Linguistics - Why is football so full of cliches?, Why do we love to chant at football matches?

Frank Monaghan is a Senior Lecturer and Staff Tutor in the School of Languages and Applied Linguistics. He works mainly on Open University modules on language and creativity (E302) and on a new Level 1 module (L101) ‘An Introduction to English Language Studies’. His research focuses on Liverpool football fan identity and creativity, and he has a particular focus on the Hillsborough disaster and the fans’ fight for justice. He blogs about LFC fans’ banners here: www.lfc-fan-banners.com, where you can find out more about what makes them so creative!

Find out more about Frank Monaghan

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