OU News

News from The Open University

A bottle of hand sanitiser

OU scientists make hand sanitiser to support frontline professionals in Milton Keynes

The Open University (OU) is supporting local efforts to stop the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) by producing much-needed hand sanitiser for healthcare professionals in Milton Keynes. With the outbreak of COVID-19, there has been unprecedented demand for hand sanitiser from the public and across the healthcare landscape, which has caused a national shortage. Scientists from […]

Read more about OU scientists make hand sanitiser to support frontline professionals in Milton Keynes

Interior of Imam Mosque at Naqhsh-e Jahan Square in Isfahan, Iran

Cultural sites and war crimes, explaining the connection

As tensions between Iran and the US continue, the OU’s Professor Derek Matravers takes a closer look at at why criticism was levelled at President Trump earlier this month, for his threats to Iran’s cultural sites. Derek Matravers is Professor of Philosphy at The Open University and his research activity includes his involvement in directing […]

Read more about Cultural sites and war crimes, explaining the connection

Getting to know the Green Originals

Getting to know the Green Originals

A new radio series – co-produced by The Open University and the BBC – recognises the pioneers of the environmental movement who championed “green” causes and changed thinking. The Rainforest loggers in Brazil, land rights in Australia, the hole in the ozone layer and paying attention to climate change – all of these and more […]

Read more about Getting to know the Green Originals

I never believed I could get a degree, let alone end up in my dream job!

I never believed I could get a degree, let alone end up in my dream job!

Teaching had always been Emma’s dream but when her teachers at school flagged that she might be dyslexic she feared her ambition was out of reach. However, with the help of The Open University and a bucket load of determination, Emma has finally achieved her goal and starts a job as a newly qualified teacher […]

Read more about I never believed I could get a degree, let alone end up in my dream job!

couple looking in estate agents

No Brexit boost for affordable housing

The Open University’s Alan Shipman, Lecturer in Economics, takes a look ahead to how the housing market will fare in the coming year. House price forecasts remain relatively optimistic for 2020, for those who regard their four walls as an investment and not just a place to live. After an average increase of just 0.7% […]

Read more about No Brexit boost for affordable housing

“The OU changed my career prospects” Gary shares his story

“The OU changed my career prospects” Gary shares his story

At the age of 14, Gary Steel left school to care for his mum. His education had been severely impacted by his caring responsibilities and despite being capable, he left school with no qualifications and entered the job market. A few years later he had the opportunity to attend a lecture with his partner who […]

Read more about “The OU changed my career prospects” Gary shares his story

Shopping bag

Bargain hunters: how shops make us buy

The post-Christmas sales are in full swing but how do shops persuade us to spend? Have some fund finding out more about what shops do to make us buy with the interactive tool below developed by our sociologists. And if you’ve enjoyed eating your way through the Christmas holidays and and want to know more […]

Read more about Bargain hunters: how shops make us buy

Donald Trump

What conspiracy theories have in common with fiction – and why it makes them compelling stories

In an era dominated by “fake news” and disinformation, conspiracy theories are coming to play an increasingly influential role in modern politics. During the recent impeachment hearings in the US, for example, former National Security Council official Fiona Hill warned that “fictional narratives” pushed by Russia were undermining American security. But what’s the difference exactly […]

Read more about What conspiracy theories have in common with fiction – and why it makes them compelling stories

“I’ve just graduated at 40 and feel that the world has become more open to me”

“I’ve just graduated at 40 and feel that the world has become more open to me”

Twenty-two years ago, Rebecca Bungay, 40, started her journey to higher education like most students, but found the road well-travelled was not for her and left university after only six weeks. Years later, determined to achieve her lifelong goal, Rebecca embarked on a degree course with the OU. Last month, Rebecca received her degree in […]

Read more about “I’ve just graduated at 40 and feel that the world has become more open to me”

The many lives of Prue Leith

The many lives of Prue Leith

To celebrate The Open University’s 50th Anniversary year, OU Honorary Graduate Prue Leith joined us for an ‘In conversation’ talk last week, led by fellow writer and Honorary Graduate Val McDermid. Speaking to the audience of OU students, alumni, partners and other members of the wider OU family, Prue described how her passion for new […]

Read more about The many lives of Prue Leith

Page 33 of 35