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The Open University at 50

For the past fifty years, we’ve made it our mission to open up education for all. As the largest UK academic institution, we’ve empowered over two million students across 157 countries to transform their lives through learning – helping to make the impossible, possible every single day.  

During this landmark anniversary we have celebrated the life-changing successes and ground-breaking innovations of our OU family throughout our history so far. Here are just some of the stories, memories and highlights of a truly remarkable year. Here’s to the next 50!

Events

50th Anniversary Events Calendar - 2019

Here's a look back at some of the events we enjoyed throughout 2019.

Jan 1-31

#BrainTeaserMonth

January is #BrainteaserMonth so if even if you can’t make it down the gym to burn off the festive excess, you can flex your grey matter with a spot of lateral thinking. Over the course of the month our social media channels will be filled with brainteasers – from puzzles to ethical dilemmas to storytelling challenges - to help celebrate our 50th birthday and promote the OU’s academic expertise.

Jan 15

OpenTALKS History: With Europe, but not of it? Why Britain joined the European Community

Milton Keynes

When the European Community was set up in 1958, Britain declined to join. By 1961, however, the British Government had decided that the country's best interests would be served by joining Europe. Luc-Andre Brunet examines the arguments for and against joining.

Jan 22

Crichton Conversation with Allan Little: The Power of Conversation, sponsored by The Open University Scotland

Dumfries

As part of the Crichton Conversation programme, The Open University are delighted to be sponsoring this event. Allan Little is one of Scotland's most distinguished journalists.

Jan 23

James Honeyborne: The Making of Blue Planet II, sponsored by The Open University Scotland

University of Edinburgh

Blue Planet II is a landmark piece of film-making with an equally significant legacy. Since its first broadcast, a tsunami of interest has developed concerning ocean sustainability, particularly in terms of marine plastics and climate change. James, the award-winning Executive Producer based at the BBC Natural History Unit in Bristol, was at the helm of this ground-breaking series. Come along as we dive deeper into this intriguing world.

Jan 23

James Honeyborne: The Making of Blue Planet II, sponsored by The Open University Scotland

University of Strathclyde, Glasgow

Blue Planet II is a landmark piece of film-making with an equally significant legacy. Since its first broadcast, a tsunami of interest has developed concerning ocean sustainability, particularly in terms of marine plastics and climate change. James, the award-winning Executive Producer based at the BBC Natural History Unit in Bristol, was at the helm of this ground-breaking series. Come along as we dive deeper into this intriguing world.

Jan 28

Inaugural Lecture: Back from the future, forward from the past: The journey that is lifelong learning

Milton Keynes

Professor Devendra Kodwani, Executive Dean of The Open University's faculty of Business and Law, will introduce the OU's 50th anniversary inaugural lecture series with a lecture on lifelong learning and the role of universities. What the concept of lifelong learning initiated by the OU in 1969 means now for the future of universities.

Jan 30

OpenTALKS Blue Planet II: The science behind the BBC series

Deeside

Professor Mark Brandon and Dr Philip Sexton have spent years working in oceans all around the world including Antarctica, the Atlantic and the Arctic. Most recently, they were part of The Open University co-production team working on the BBC’s Blue Planet II. Using breakthroughs in marine science and cutting-edge technologies this landmark seven-part series brought viewers face to face with compelling stories from our Earth’s incredible oceans. Together, Professor Mark Brandon and Dr Philip Sexton, will talk about the science of our oceans, the experience of the production process, and how science and discovery were the driving forces behind the award-winning series.

Feb 5

An introduction to Chinese language learning in the past, present and future (Belfast)

Belfast

As part of Chinese New Year 2019 The Open University is celebrating with a free, fun talk and interactive workshop entitled ‘An introduction to Chinese language learning in the past, present and future’. Presented by Ximena Arias-Manzano, Open University Staff Tutor (Languages), the talk will explore the ways in which Chinese characters were written in the past. Ximena will also discuss the evolution of Chinese characters and how computer and mobile technology have transformed the handling of characters. The importance of Mandarin in the business world today will also be discussed. The talk is followed by a short interactive workshop, with the chance to write Chinese characters and Ximena will demonstrate The Open University’s Chinese@OU App.

Feb 6

OpenTALKS History: Making this realm of England an Empire: The Tudors, Europe and the Reformation

Milton Keynes

This talk presented by Neil Younger, will consider whether relations between Tudor England and Europe in the 16th Century can offer any lessons for remaking our relationships with Europe in the 21st Century.

Feb 8

An introduction to Chinese language learning in the past, present and future

Dublin

As part of The Dublin Chinese New Year Festival 2019 The Open University in Ireland, in collaboration with The National Library of Ireland, is celebrating with this free, fun talk and interactive workshop. Presented by Ximena Arias-Manzano, The Open University Staff Tutor (Languages) in Ireland, the talk will explore the ways in which Chinese characters were written in the past. Ximena will also discuss the evolution of Chinese characters and how computer and mobile technology have transformed the handling of characters. The importance of Mandarin in the business world today will also be discussed.

Feb 13

OpenTALKS: Blue Planet II: The science behind the BBC Series

Dublin

Join The Open University’s academics who worked on the BBC Blue Planet series to hear about the science of our oceans. Marine scientists Mark Brandon and Phil Sexton have spent years working in oceans all around the world including Antarctica, the Atlantic and the Arctic, and with the BBC Blue Planet team since 2014. Using video footage from Blue Planet II, they will talk about some of the key issues affecting our oceans, including how they ‘work’ and why they are important. If you are a Blue Planet fan, this is not to be missed!

Feb 14

OpenTALKS: Blue Planet II: The science behind the BBC Series

Belfast

Join The Open University’s academics who worked on the BBC Blue Planet series to hear about the science of our oceans. Marine scientists Mark Brandon and Phil Sexton have spent years working in oceans all around the world including Antarctica, the Atlantic and the Arctic, and with the BBC Blue Planet team since 2014. Using video footage from Blue Planet II, they will talk about some of the key issues affecting our oceans, including how they ‘work’ and why they are important. If you are a Blue Planet fan, this is not to be missed!

Feb 16

Mathematical art and the secrets of the Giant's Causeway

Belfast

In this hands-on workshop with Charlotte Webb, Lecturer in Maths Education, children will investigate the mathematics behind regular and Archimedean tessellations, and create their own collaborative, geometric art display using tessellating shapes. They will also look at a local example of tessellation that helped make the Giant's Causeway one of the wonders of the world!

Feb 17

The Moon: a gateway to planetary exploration

Belfast

In 2019, it will be 50 years since The Open University was established, and since the Apollo 11 landing on the Moon. These two independent but unique events have touched millions (if not billions!) of lives. In this presentation, Dr Mahesh Anand will highlight the internationally-leading lunar research carried out at The Open University on the Apollo samples, and how the Moon is a natural gateway for future planetary exploration. Prepare to be inspired to make "living off the land on the Moon" a reality in the not too distant future!

Feb 19

Imaginary energy

Belfast

In this entertaining and interactive talk, Dr Stephen Peake takes us on a tour of our weird energy past and our even stranger energy future. Half of the world's 7.5 billion people don't consume enough energy to live well. The other half consume too much. How then, will 11 billion of us enjoy the high energy lifestyles we have become used to? Where will we get our energy from? How will energy change the way we live? This event features a range of theatrical demonstrations, amazing data graphics and performance elements interspersed with some boring facts - a peek into your energy future!

Feb 19

Inaugural Lecture: Aspects of Open: The evolution of the meaning of open education

Milton Keynes

Martin Weller, Professor of Education Technology at the OU, will examine what the term 'open' means and consider if we were to invent an 'Open University' now, what would it look like?

Feb 20

Training your brainwaves

Belfast

It is a myth that we only use 10% of our brain but there are ways to improve the function of your 86 billion neurons. Neurofeedback can help people learn to modify their brain by displaying its electrical activity in real-time. By seeing and hearing the brain activity in milliseconds resolution, people can learn to modify a range of brain functions such as attention or arousal. Dr Duncan Banks of The Open University will give a presentation and live demonstration showing how brainwaves can be recorded from members of the audience.

Feb 23

Science on screen

Belfast

Come and try out some of The Open University’s virtual resources at our pop-up display! You will get a realistic insight into the structure of the heart using the Augmented Reality heart, learn more about what’s in our oceans using our Oceans Explorer app or you can simply challenge yourself to some mathematical puzzles using the Perplex maths puzzle app.

Feb 23

The greatest inequality in maths: acknowledgement of female success

Belfast

From Hypatia (murdered by a Christian mob in 415 CE) to Ada Lovelace (the enchantress of numbers) and Maryam Mirzakhani (the 2014 Fields medallist) there have been women who have loved mathematics and, often in defiance of the social and intellectual norms of the day, have shown themselves to be extremely good at it. The Open University’s Professor June Barrow-Green will introduce a number of these women, describe some of the difficulties they encountered and indicate what they managed to achieve. She will also look at the situation for women mathematicians today and describe some initiatives currently in place for tackling the gender gap in mathematics.

Feb 24

BBC/OU Partnership Press Event (BBC event - Invitation only)

To celebrate our longstanding partnership with the BBC and to mark our 50th anniversary, BBC Director General Tony Hall will be hosting a special reception event. We were the first university in the world to have the imagination and foresight to embrace the new technologies of television and radio. Our partnership with the BBC continues today enabling us to educate and inspire the widest possible audiences with landmark programming such as Blue Planet II, Horizon and Coast.

Mar 5

Inaugural Lecture series: Menopause and the workplace

Milton Keynes

It is very apt for Professor Jo Brewis to deliver her inaugural lecture in the week of International Women’s Day on a topic which is often regarded as taboo in wider society and in the workplace in particular.

Mar 7

National Apprenticeship Week webinar: Blaze a trail by investing in apprenticeships

Online

Apprenticeship Week runs from 4th to 8th March 2019 and we will be sharing how the OU has worked with organisations to address their skills gaps through our successful higher and degree apprenticeship programmes. We’ll be sharing some of our success stories from different sectors and will show how apprenticeships help employers develop both new and existing employees to realise their potential and future-proof their businesses in uncertain times. Webinar led by Phil Kenmore.

Mar 9

International Women's Day Event: Women of Fife

Rothes Hall, Glenrothes

Join us for a free day of talks, exhibitions, workshops and taster sessions all to celebrate Women of Fife. Enjoy a packed day including talks about Jennie Lee, a local MP and the founder of the Open University and Mary Somerville, a Burntisland native of international renown.

Mar 9

International Women's Day: Afternoon Tea in Fife

Lochgelly Centre, Fife

Celebrate this coming International Women's Day with us in an exclusive afternoon tea. The Open University in Scotland will have a Jennie Lee display at 'International Women's Day Afternoon Tea', held by ON with Fife Cultural Trust, Lochgelly Centre. Enjoy the afternoon with friends, family or perhaps even friends you haven't made yet and indulge in a delightful afternoon tea.

Mar 12

Inaugural Lecture: Fairness in knowing: How should we engage with the sciences?

Milton Keynes

Science has the power to influence our lives. This lecture with Professor Richard Hollman questions and explores how Science should be governed, represented and funded.

Mar 12

OpenTALKS: National Histories and National Identities; Brexit and Devolution, Past and Future

Cardiff

The Open University’s Dr Richard Marsden will explore how changing ideas about the past have contributed to the unprecedented existential challenges now facing the British state.

Mar 13

School of Physical Sciences Research Day – live-streaming

Milton Keynes

The School of Physical Sciences (SPS) is the most research active school within the Open University, with leading involvements in a wide range of research projects in Space Science, Astronomy, and Physics. All research active staff and researchers will be making three minute presentations highlighting their current research in order to give a flavour of the breadth and reach of the research in SPS. The timetable with times and titles of talks will be available shortly.

Mar 14

Milton Keynes Business Achievement Awards

Milton Keynes

To mark our anniversary we are headline sponsor for the annual Milton Keynes Business Achievement Awards which will celebrate education, training and skills development this year.

Mar 16

Aye Write Festival / Open University in Scotland Sponsored Talk 1

The Mitchell Library, Glasgow

"Laura Bates talks Misogynation". Chaired by Susan Stewart, Director, The OU in Scotland. Talk at 16.45-17.45 (Laura Bates) at The Mitchell Library. Laura Bates is a pioneering feminist, activist and bestselling author who has given a voice to thousands of women through her international Everyday Sexism project. In this collection of essays, Bates uncovers the sexism that exists in our relationships, our workplaces, our media, our homes, and on our streets, but which is also firmly rooted in our lifelong assumptions and in the actions and attitudes we explain away, defend and accept. Often dismissed as one-offs, veiled as ‘banter’ or described as ‘isolated incidents’, Misogynation joins the dots to reveal the true scale of discrimination and prejudice women face.

Mar 16

Aye Write Festival / Open University in Scotland Sponsored Talk 2

Glasgow Royal Concert Hall

"How British Justice is Failing Women" with Helena Kennedy QC. Chaired by Ruth Wishart at 20.00 - 21.00, at Glasgow Royal Concert Hall. In Eve Was Shamed Helena Kennedy forensically examines new evidence that women are still being discriminated against throughout the legal system, from the High Court (where only 21% of judges are women) to female prisons (where 84% of inmates are held for non-violent offences despite the refrain that prison should only be used for violent crime). The #MeToo campaign has been in part a reaction to those failures. In this richly detailed and shocking book, one of our most eminent human rights thinkers shows with force and fury that change for women must start at the heart of what makes society just.

Mar 19

An Introduction to the Social Worker Degree Apprenticeship webinar

Online

The Open University has launched its Social Worker Degree Apprenticeship, offering a new, flexible route into becoming a social worker. We are holding an information webinar on World Social Work Day – 19 March at 10am so you can find out more about how you can grow your own social workers utilising the apprenticeship levy.

Mar 25

Imagine! Reading about conflict

Belfast

Grab a free coffee and join our fun reading group with a difference! After proving so popular at our last two festivals, Dr Shaf Towheed, Senior Lecturer in English at The Open University returns to lead a light-hearted discussion on how authors write about conflict. The event will focus on literature about the Troubles, with two extracts from award winning books produced by local authors Anna Burns and Tony Macaulay, followed by short extracts on writing about WW2 and contemporary conflict. With some reading aloud by the lecturers and volunteers, there will be the opportunity for comments and questions from participants at the end, when you will be welcome to share your thoughts and dive into the intricacies of the text. No previous knowledge is required as this is an informal, relaxed event suitable for ages 18+.

Mar 26

Imagine! What can Trump teach us about bullying and manipulation?

Belfast

Manipulation and bullying are serious issues in many areas of public and private life – from cyberbullying of school children to abusive relationships. These can have damaging impacts on individuals, relationships, school, work and social life. Applying ideas from psychology, this intriguing talk by The Open University’s Dr Karen Hagan will look at manipulative strategies used by President Trump in news conferences, interviews and on Twitter, and why these can be successful in particular contexts. Understanding this can reveal counterstrategies to discourage and resist bullying across all spheres. Come along to listen and ask any questions you may have on this fascinating subject! This event will be delivered by Dr Karen Hagan, Senior Lecturer (Ireland), Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences and School of Psychology. Suitable for all ages. Delivered as part of The Imagine Festival of Politics and Ideas.

Mar 27

Imagine! Dead bodies, live minds

Belfast

How can popular culture’s fascination with true crime stories be used to make legal concepts captivating for wider audiences? Academics and lawyers from the Law Society of Ireland, Middlesex University and The Open University will showcase their collaborative Streetlaw teaching methodology which has been used to increase legal understanding in communities across Ireland and the UK. There will be an exciting hour-long, immersive workshop where participants will work in groups to investigate a real life murder case. This will be followed by an expert panel discussion to examine the techniques used to explore the case and highlight the importance of raising levels of public legal knowledge. This event will be delivered by Hugh McFaul, Lecturer in Law at The Open University. Suitable for ages 14+ Delivered as part of The Imagine Festival of Politics and Ideas.

Mar 28

Imagine! Frankenstein and the hyena in petticoats

Belfast

This event will take a fresh look at Mary Shelley’s famous and much-loved novel, Frankenstein. Dr Alex Barber, Senior Lecturer in Philosophy at The Open University, will consider the surprising presence of the author’s mother and father – philosophers Mary Wollstonecraft and William Godwin – within the book. Using video clips, Alex will uncover the influence of Shelley’s parents on this novel, particularly her feminist mother, who was called ‘a hyena in petticoats’ by male critics. Brought up by an abusive father, Mary Wollstonecraft was forced to leave home and dedicated herself to her writing. She is perhaps best known for her revolutionary manifesto, A Vindication of the Rights of Woman, one of the earliest books on feminism. She died 10 days after giving birth to Mary Shelley but, as we will hear in this fascinating talk, still lives on in the words of her daughter. No background knowledge of the book is required to enjoy this event. The discussion following the talk will touch on issues relating to the role of women in contemporary society. Suitable for ages 18+ Delivered as part of The Imagine Festival of Politics and Ideas.

Mar 29

Revisiting Modern Art & Modernism at the OU

Milton Keynes

This conference will explore the impact of OU art history courses and broadcast media, critically assessing how they inspired successive generations of OU undergraduate students by involving them directly in current - often closely fought - debates about modern art. Keynote lectures, panels and round-table discussions with eminent scholars in the field will cover a range of topics.

Apr 3

OpenTALKS History: British imperialist visions of Islamic States

Milton Keynes

From the mid-nineteenth century, men working in the highest levels of the British state, animated by the partition of the world among the imperial powers and fuelled by the idea of Britain as the ‘greatest Mohammedan power’, began to sketch out a vision for states under British tutelage in which Islam played a central role. This talk by John Slight will trace the trajectories of these putative Islamic states in Africa, the Middle East and Asia, the role played by Muslim leaders in them, and explain how this British imperial manipulation of Islam ultimately failed.

Apr 9

From frosty ashes of stars to the molecules of life: unravelling the chemical universe

Berrill Lecture Theatre, Walton Hall, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA

Institute of Physics and The Open University Open Public Lecture series. Until less than a century ago astronomers believed the space between the stars, the interstellar medium, to be just that…empty space. But it wasn’t until the 1970s, with the discovery of interstellar formaldehyde, that we began to realise that there is more out there than meets the eye. Could the building blocks of life have originated in space? Speaker Dr Anita Dawes will focus on our current knowledge of how such molecules form in space and follow their journey through the birth of stars and planets. We will also look ahead at what may lie in store for research in astrochemistry with the forthcoming launch of the much-awaited James Webb Space Telescope, which may help uncover clues concerning the greatest challenge of all – understanding the molecular origin of life. Free public lecture. 19:30 to 20:30 followed by refreshments.

Apr 6-21

Edinburgh International Science Festival

Edinburgh

In honour of the 50th anniversary of the Moon landings, the 2019 Festival theme is Frontiers, exploring the boundaries of knowledge and the spirit of adventure and enquiry that drives science, technology, engineering and maths. Within this theme, specific areas of focus will include Healthcare Frontiers, Engineering Frontiers, Digital Frontiers, Environmental Frontiers and Planetary Frontiers.

Apr 15-17

Scottish Trades Union Congress’ (STUC) Annual Congress

Dundee

The OU is pleased to be hosting a fringe event at this Annual Congress on ‘Workplace learning: Unions taking the lead’ as well as hosting a stand for the duration of the Congress.

Apr 23

The OU celebrates a special Charter Day

The OU will celebrate its official birthday, the day the University was bestowed its Royal Charter in 1969. More information to follow.

Apr 23

STEM OpenTALKS: A Clockwork Universe & Near-Earth Asteroids

Double bill: The Clockwork Universe by Professor Andrew Norton. In his talk, the OU Professor of Astrophysics Education will describe some of his research into variable stars, illustrated with animations to show how observations of the brightest of stars and their spectra, can reveal hierarchical multiple eclipsing stars, pulsating stars, and rapidly rotating white dwarfs and neutron stars. Near-Earth Asteroids by Professor Simon Green. In his talk, the OU Professor of Planetary and Space Science will discuss his research into near-earth asteroids and the challenges for missions to prevent a potential future asteroid impact on the Earth.

Apr 24

The Open University at 50, Scottish Parliament Reception (Invitation only)

Edinburgh

The OU is delighted to be hosting a private stakeholder reception to celebrate the OU’s 50th anniversary, at The Scottish Parliament. This event is sponsored by Claire Baker MSP and will be attended by the First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon MSP.

Apr 26

50th Anniversary Gala Concert

Milton Keynes

To help celebrate the role of music in the University, we are hosting a gala public concert and a showcase event for local schools. We are honoured that Dame Evelyn Glennie, DH, CBE, the internationally acclaimed professional percussionist, has agreed to be the soloist in both events. Dame Evelyn is an honorary graduate of the University, and passionately committed to music education for all.

May 8

The Open University Reading - at Crossways Festival 2019

Glasgow

The Open University in Scotland and The Open University in Ireland are collaborating as part of Crossways Festival 2019: The Irish Scottish Cultural and Literary Festival. This event draws on the expertise of OU creative writing tutors from both sides of the North Channel. Come along to hear readings by Maureen Boyle, Chris Powici, Lindsay Macgregor and Eoghan Walls.

May 9

Inside the Foreign Office: the challenge facing UK Foreign Policy

Aberystwyth, Wales

The BBC/OU Co-production, Inside the Foreign Office, captured the extraordinary world of the people working in some of the most complex and sensitive jobs in UK Government. The Open University’s Dr Edward Wastnidge and Dr William Brown worked as academic consultants on the series. They’ll present their contribution to this production and talk about the privileged access the series had to the fascinating world of British diplomats. The panel will then take a critical look at foreign policy issues that came out of the BBC series including local, national and international standpoints.

May 11

DunsPlayFest - Jules Horne Playwriting Workshop

Duns, Scottish Borders

The OU is delighted to be supporting Jules Horne's playwriting workshop at the upcoming DunsPlayFest. Jules Horne is a playwright, radio dramatist and fiction writer. She teaches creative writing as an Associate Lecturer at the OU in Scotland.

May 11

Melanie Reid at Ullapool Book Festival 2019

Ullapool, Scottish Highlands

The OU in Scotland is delighted to support this event with award-winning journalist Melanie Reid MBE, chaired by OU Honorary Graduate Ruth Wishart. Having broken her neck and back in a riding accident in 2010, Melanie writes her weekly Spinal Column in the Times Magazine and her memoir was published in March 2019.

May 15

50th Anniversary Celebratory Dinner (Invitation Only)

London

A black-tie dinner hosted by Baroness Martha Lane Fox to celebrate our achievements and our role in the future of education for our partners, donors and key stakeholders.

May 15

50th Anniversary Celebratory Dinner (Invitation Only)

Belfast

Celebrating 50 years with friends, family and students with a reception and dinner at Belfast City Hall. Hosted by the Right Honourable, the Lord Mayor, Councillor Deirdre Hargey.

May 15

OpenTALKS History: Reimagining democracy: lessons from the French Revolution

Milton Keynes

This lecture by Anna Plassart explores contemporary reactions to the democratic experiment of the French Revolution. For many in France as in Britain, France’s descent into violence illustrated the dangers of democratic and rights-based politics. But for those who continued to uphold democratic ideals in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, the Revolution’s failure also provided a set of lessons to reflect upon.

May 16

Empowering an inclusive workforce through Graduate Apprenticeships

Edinburgh

Diversifying Your Talent Pool to Plug Digital Skills Gaps: The OU in Scotland is hosting a special event to help support organisations of all sizes across Scotland benefit from the opportunity Graduate Apprenticeships represent to access, shape and retain digital talent.

May 17-18

Open the Door: Scotland's Women Writers Festival

Glasgow

The Open University is delighted to support Open the Door 2019, Scotland’s literary festival that puts women to the fore.

May 21

Inaugural Lecture series: Youth Crime and Justice: does age matter?

Milton Keynes

Many countries have separate criminal justice systems for young people and adults, but is age the differentiating factor that should be considered? In this lecture, Professor Jo Phoenix, Chair in Criminology, will argue that whilst understandable, the current system locks the debate about youth justice into recurring circular disagreements about justice, welfare and rights. Professor Phoenix will discuss different ways in which social circumstances and cultural context might be better placed to differentiate in both adult and youthful law-breaking.

May 22

The OU and Cyrenians: 50 Years of Opening Doors and Changing Lives

Edinburgh

This unique event marks half a century since the founding of both the OU and Cyrenians, who both exist to support people to realise their full potential and to flourish.

May 22

Celebrating 50 years of “Open” curriculum at The Open University

Milton Keynes

As The Open University celebrates its 50th anniversary, you are invited to join the Open Programme team in celebrating 50 years of multidisciplinary teaching and learning, both at the OU and across the wider higher education sector.

May 23

Hay Festival

Hay on Wye, Powys, Wales

The Hay Festival brings readers and writers together to share stories and ideas. Now worldwide, these festivals inspire, examine and entertain, inviting participants to imagine the world as it is and as it might be.

May 24

Lost at Sea – at Dumfries & Galloway Arts Festival

Dumfries

The OU is delighted to support the opening night event at Dumfries & Galloway Arts Festival 2019: Lost at Sea by Morna Young, presented by Perth Theatre at Horsecross Arts.

May 24-25

OpenDoors: Aristotle to Zephaniah

Milton Keynes

In tribute to The Open University's 50th anniversary, the Open Theatre Group (which recently celebrated its own 40th anniversary) is presenting a light-hearted miscellany of entertainment in celebration of all things educational, entitled 'Open Doors: Aristotle to Zephaniah'. This will be performed in the OU Hub theatre on Friday 24 May @7.30pm and Saturday 25 May @2.30pm. Tickets, priced at £6/£5 concessions, are obtainable online at https://www.theopentheatregroup.org.uk/or in person (lunchtimes only) from OTG chair, Michael Spours via opentheatregroup@gmail.com. Parents please note that some of the material is not suitable for young children… only one or two items may shock, but they may get bored!

Jun1-30

The Open University at 50: Standing with Pride

In addition to celebrating our 50th birthday, throughout June we are commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall riots. We are proud of our social mission in opening education for all and our role in promoting and driving inclusivity and diversity. The OU is attending Pride events across the four nations alongside PLEXUS the OU Students Association LGBTQ+ group.

Jun 4

Inaugural Lecture: The idea of Social Justice in Innovation and Development

Milton Keynes

In this lecture Professor Theo Papaioannou will discuss why justice needs to provide the normative direction of innovation systems in the 21st century. He will argue that justice as such is a non-ideal standard which is significant for the legitimacy of emerging technologies and related developmental change.

Jun 7

'Be Jennie Lee' Film Screening

Lochgelly, Fife

The OU is pleased to be supporting the film screening of 'Be Jennie Lee' performances by seven primary schools from the Cowdenbeath area, inspired by the founder of the OU, Jennie Lee of Lochgelly.

Jun 8

How to get published

Belfast

We’re pleased to be partnering with Writers and Artists to bring a day of advice on the writing and publishing process. This full-day conference, held in the heart of Belfast, includes talks on various aspects of the writing journey from best-selling authors, a networking lunch and an informative interactive panel discussion with leading literary agents.

Jun 9

OU at Glasgow Science Festival - at the Riverside

Glasgow

The Open University, together with the University of Glasgow, is delighted to support the Glasgow Science Festival. Join us for a day of exploration, where you can try to build a bridge without using glue or fastenings, and you can become a crime scene investigator for the day!

Jun 12

Official opening of the EPEA Conference 2019

Dublin

National Director of The Open University in Ireland, John D’Arcy, will be officially opening the conference this year. Hosting a range of events and seminars around prisons and education, the EPEA conference is taking place from 12-16 June at TU Dublin City Campus.

Jun 13

After the dust has settled: asteroid impacts and their aftermath

Milton Keynes

If an asteroid strikes the Earth – or any other celestial body – ‘something’ happens. The extend of that ‘something’ from a human perspective was explored by Prof. Simon Green in his OpenTalks STEM lecture on 23rd April. The talk by Senior Lecturer Dr. Susanne P. Schwenzer will pick up from there and explore the interaction of the projectile with the surface. She will look at what happens to the rocks in the underground and how an impact changes the landscape. She will talk about the Earth and its impact record, including the infamous, dinosaur-killing (?) Chicxulub impact. But she will also look at Moon and Mars. Using the former she will show how we can use impact craters to find out about the age of a planetary surface from images alone, and the latter to discuss how an impact into the – now – icy world of Mars could change the environmental conditions to create habitable liquid water systems.

Jun 15

The Open University's 50th Anniversary Readings

Belfast

Celebrate The Open University’s 50th birthday with an array of readings from Irish writers published the year the university was founded. Since 1969 the OU has been the leading university for flexible, innovative teaching and world-leading research, providing access to education for everyone and helping to transform lives. Join us as we mark the occasion with poetry and polemic, fact and fiction, journalism and journeying, with people reading from the work of Seamus Heaney, Janet McNeill, James Plunkett, Iris Murdoch, James Simmons and many more. Come and celebrate 50 years of education for all.

Jun 15-16

OU at Glasgow Science Festival - at the Botanics: Get Experimental

Glasgow

Come and visit Glasgow’s wonderful Botanic Gardens for a weekend of hands-on science and horticultural experiments, with members of The Open University and the University of Strathclyde.

Jun 18

50th Anniversary Celebratory Dinner (Invitation Only)

Cardiff

An event to celebrate 50 years of transforming lives through learning and opening up education for all.

Jun 20

Celebrating the OU at 50 with the OU in Scotland's Psychology Community

Glasgow

Come along and join us for a celebration of 50 years of OU Psychology in Scotland. Bring yourself, your family, friends and dancing shoes. This public event is open to OU psychology students, their friends and families and anyone with an interest in psychology and/or the OU.

Jun 20

Mend the Gap

Belfast

To celebrate International Refugee Day, The Open University invites you to attend an interactive workshop and discussion around “Mending the Gap”. Mend the Gap is an exciting approach, developed by PowerUs, that helps people at the receiving end of statutory, voluntary and third sector social care organisations promote deeper understanding of their needs as refugees and asylum seekers. This workshop will discuss the principles behind the approach and will lead you in discussions as to how it can be applied in your organisation. It will explore new ways of learning that can come from sharing experiences, knowledge and skills within professionals’ education. PowerUs is an international network of teachers and researchers from schools of social work and representatives from different service user organisations. It develops methods of mutual learning in order to change social work practice to be more effective in supporting the empowerment of marginalized and discriminated groups in society. The workshop will be delivered by Helen Casey, Staff Tutor for the Department of Social Work at the OU, who will discuss her gap-mending work with refugees and asylum seekers.

Jun 22

Edinburgh Pride

Edinburgh

We are extremely proud of our social mission driving inclusivity and diversity and will be attending Pride events across the four nations alongside PLEXUS the OU Students Association LGBTQ+ group.

Jun 24

Mental health and you: A Northern Ireland perspective

Belfast

Mental ill health is a problem that affects thousands of people right across Northern Ireland and touches the lives of so many more. Northern Ireland is also the most underfunded nation across the UK in terms of public health care for mental illness. A great deal of focus has been placed on the role of conflict on public mental health in Northern Ireland and in particular, its impact on society in the aftermath of the Troubles. Following The Open University’s recent co-production with the BBC, Psychosis and Me, shown as part of a series to shine a light on mental health, we are proud to bring you this special talk that will take place as part of a series of events to celebrate the OU’s 50th anniversary in 2019. The OU’s Dr Sarah Vicary and Dr Sharon Mallon will take a different approach, discussing how broad social and policy level factors such as poverty, inequality and public attitudes are also shaping mental health in Northern Ireland today. 

Jun 25

Inaugural Lecture: If school is the problem, what is the solution?

Milton Keynes

Discussing fundamental problems in the current education system. Professor Peter Twinning explores elements of a system that is more fit for purpose.

Jun 28

Planets and stars: an immersive night sky experience

Brecon Beacons National Park visitors centre

Stephen Lewis & Dave Rothery, academics from the new BBC2 series The Planets that launched last night, will be coming to Wales for a live stargazing and space lecture experience in partnership with Dark Sky Wales. We have the benefit of extremely dark skies in Wales so this should be a knock-out event.

Jun 29

Dublin Pride

Dublin

We are extremely proud of our social mission driving inclusivity and diversity and will be attending Pride events across the four nations alongside PLEXUS the OU Students Association LGBTQ+ group.

Jul 3

OpenTALKS: Lifelong learning, beyond boundaries – Building skills in a Digital Age (Invitation only)

Institute of Directors, London

The panel, hosted by honorary graduate Prue Leith and including Andy Haldane, Chief Economist at the Bank of England, and OU Pro-Chancellor Malcolm Sweeting, will focus on the role of open education across the public and private sector, from a skills development, employability and social mobility perspective.

Jul 4

50th Anniversary concert: The Open University Choir performs John Byron’s Ritual Spells

Milton Keynes

This substantial work for soprano, chorus and orchestra was commissioned by the OU Choir in 1994 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Open University and its premiere was performed by the Choir on 28 April 1994. The work is a setting by local composer John Byron of four poems by Richard Gaskell which trace the cycle of the seasons. The OU Choir has been at the forefront of practical music-making on the Milton Keynes campus for many years and is proud in this concert to mark its own anniversary in 2019 of 40 years presenting concerts at the Open University.

Jul 8-12

Festival of Business and Law

Milton Keynes

In July the Business and Law Schools are holding a series of activities at the Milton Keynes campus to celebrate The Open University's 50th Year.

Monday 8 July: Learn About Fair for OU colleagues to meet on campus

Tuesday 9 July: Business Network Breakfast Briefing, on the theme of "Why do we work? What does work mean to you?"

Tuesday 9 July: The Centre for Voluntary Sector Leadership (CVSL) annual conference on the theme of "Collaboration and leadership: making it happen." Sue Farrington Smith MBE, Chief Executive of Brain Tumour Research, will give the keynote speech

Friday 12 July: Annual Student and Alumni Awards, a celebration of the achievements of students and alumni in the past year.

Jul 10

OpenTalk STEM: Who turned out the lights? A lecture on Cyber security

Milton Keynes

The phrase ‘Digital Pearl Harbor’ has often been used to describe a crippling computer attack on a country’s infrastructure. On 17th December 2016, the temperature in Kyiv, Ukraine fell to -7 Celsius. At midnight, the electricity supply failed. One year later, in Western Ukraine, it failed again. These weren’t accidents; someone was deliberately interfering with the Ukrainian energy grid.

This talk, by Senior Lecturer Dr Mike Richards will explore the origins of the Ukrainian attack; the vulnerabilities that made; it possible; who was behind the blackouts and what they have done since. It will also ask whether the cold, dark nights of 2016 and 2017 might happen again and if we may be the next victims.

Jul 13

Bournemouth Pride

Bournemouth

We are extremely proud of our social mission driving inclusivity and diversity and will be attending Pride events across the four nations alongside PLEXUS the OU Students Association LGBTQ+ group.

Jul 16

Inaugural Lecture: The polar oceans and global climate

Milton Keynes

In this lecture Professor Brandon will describe the polar seas, how they work, and their global importance. He will show how research has fed into polar broadcast and how using the series co-produced by the BBC and The Open University, we can teach science to millions. Components of our television broadcast with real time polar data, can even be utilised by distance learning students to learn basic science and get the best possible understanding of what is happening there right now.

Jul 17

Between – a storytelling performance of migration and multilingualism

Milton Keynes

The MA in Translation team at the School of Languages and Applied Linguistics invites you to Between, a storytelling performance of migration and multilingualism. Focusing on migration, identity, multilingualism, empathy, loss and renewal, Between uses storytelling and drama to reveal the difficult and sensitive situations encountered by interpreters working in a multi-ethnic counselling and interpreting service. The performance is based on the work of the Reading-based Mothertongue project, a dedicated Mental Health Interpreting Service that supported people from black and minority ethnic communities.

Jul 27

Nottingham Pride

Nottingham

We are extremely proud of our social mission driving inclusivity and diversity and will be attending Pride events across the four nations alongside PLEXUS the OU Students Association LGBTQ+ group.

Aug 3

Belfast Pride

Belfast

We are extremely proud of our social mission driving inclusivity and diversity and will be attending Pride events across the four nations alongside PLEXUS the OU Students Association LGBTQ+ group.

Aug 6

Our Dementia Choir

Belfast

Following on from the greatly acclaimed OU co-production with the BBC, Our Dementia Choir with Vicky McClure, we are delighted to bring you an exclusive talk with the academics who worked behind the scenes. Dr Geraldine Boyle (Senior Lecturer in the School of Health, Wellbeing and Social Care) and Dr Terence Curran (Honorary Associate in Music) will reveal what it was like to work on the programme along with the experience and expertise that they contributed.

The event will feature a panel discussion with both academics, a member of the Alzheimer's Society Northern Ireland, Geradine Mulvenna (Creator of This is Me) and someone living with dementia, all of whom will share their views on the value of music.

Aug 12-23

Edinburgh International Book Festival 2019 - The OU 50th Anniversary Series

Edinburgh

The OU 50th Anniversary Series at the Edinburgh International Book Festival includes events with: former Prime Minister and former OU tutor Gordon Brown; radical poet and OU honorary graduate Benjamin Zephaniah; celebrated Scottish writer and OU honorary graduate Val McDermid; equal pay campaigner and former BBC China editor Carrie Gracie; prize-winning author and former OU Arts Faculty staff member Daniel Shand; and author and OU creative writing alumnus Catherine Simpson.

Aug 24

Pride Cymru

Wales

We are extremely proud of our social mission driving inclusivity and diversity and will be attending Pride events across the four nations alongside PLEXUS the OU Students Association LGBTQ+ group.

Aug 29

OU Roadshow Employer Events Across Scotland: ‘Upskilling Your Workforce: Preparing for the Future'

Across Scotland

The OU is running a roadshow of events for employers across Scotland, in partnership with the Scottish Council for Development and Industry (SCDI). The roadshow takes place from 29 August to 5 November and will visit Dundee, Shetland, Orkney, Oban, Dumfries, Inverness, Irvine and Stirling.

Sep 4

OpenTALKS STEM: Acoustics by the sea with BBC COAST

Milton Keynes

Prof David Sharp has made four appearances on BBC Coast and was an academic consultant for the series. In his talk, David will discuss his experiences filming science-related items for the programme, covering features on sound mirrors, foghorns, squeaking sand and Fingal’s cave. The talk includes plenty of video clips from the Coast programmes and covers the science underpinning the features, as well as giving inside info regarding some of the tricks employed when filming for television.

Sep 5

OpenTALKS STEM: 1969 and All That

Milton Keynes

1969 was the year when Neil Armstrong took his small step on the Moon. But the Moon was not the only planetary body to start giving up its secrets that year. Two spacecraft flew closer to Mars than ever before, picturing its cratered surface and one of its polar caps. Two large meteorites fell, in Mexico and Australia. Two astronomers in Kazakhstan discovered a comet that became the target of the European Space Agency’s incredibly successful Rosetta mission. Monica Grady was involved in that mission and has collected meteorites in Antarctica. She has studied meteorites from the asteroid belt, from the Moon and from Mars. In her talk, she will explain what, 50 years later, we have learnt about the Solar System from the events of 1969.

Sep 9-12

Pan-Commonwealth Forum on Open Learning (PCF9)

BT Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh

The ninth Pan-Commonwealth Forum on Open Learning (PCF9), co-hosted by The Open University with The Commonwealth of Learning. Focusing on Innovations for Quality Education and Lifelong Learning, with special focus on Education for Girls and Empowering Youth.

Sep 10

Inaugural Lecture: Cause-related Marketing - a marketing strategy for corporate social responsibility performance

Milton Keynes

Cause-related marketing seeks to enhance a firm’s legitimacy. This is achieved by publicising and capitalising on the company’s corporate social responsibility accomplishments. More specifically, it focuses on designing corporate social responsibility strategies and communication of the associated achievements, to enhance a firm’s reputation with its key stakeholders. This in turn improves long-run profitability and stakeholder relationships. In this lecture, Professor Liu will explore the formats of cause-related marketing campaigns and the specific ways of implementing these strategies. He will argue the opportunities (benefits) that such campaigns can bring to private businesses as well as social enterprises/non-profits. Professor Lui will also discuss the potential threats faced by corporate and social enterprise/non-profit managers when implementing cause-related marketing strategies.

Sep 11

OpenTALKS: Game of Thrones and the mirror of history

Belfast

The enormous popularity of Game of Thrones is due largely to the quality of its story-telling and characterisation, and the opportunity it offers to escape into another world. But that world is in many respects a distorted reflection of our own, particularly in terms of how we imagine our own history. This talk will highlight some of the ways in which portrayals of Westeros and Essos draw upon deep-seated assumptions about the European Middle Ages. Modern day notions of medieval chivalry and romanticism, barbarism and superstition, and also attitudes to non-Western societies, are central to that depiction. The event will be delivered by Richard Marsden, a Lecturer in History at The Open University.

Sep 11

OpenTALKS: Mental Health and Me

Swansea

Join us for a free event to explore mental health and living with a mental health condition. This free event follows the OU / BBC co-production ‘Psychosis and Me’, which followed actor David Harewood and his journey with psychosis, but will discuss a range of mental health conditions. This event looks to raise awareness of mental health conditions, challenge stigma, and discuss future action that needs to be taken to support people with their mental health.

Sep 12

OpenTALKS STEM: Citizen Science and the Data Avalanche

Milton Keynes

Did you know people are better at classifying tasks then computers? Can crowdsourcing help us to classify data of the universe? Astronomy and particle physics have begun a new data-rich era of discovery, from finding warps in space and time to new particles in accelerators. But the data avalanche is so fast, so large and so complex that it’s a challenge for computing. Humans are still often much better than AI at classification tasks and this has led to a new way of doing science: crowdsourcing, with the help of citizen science volunteers. Stephen Serjeant, Professor of Astronomy, will show you how you can join in, and review some of the highlights of our citizen science on the leading crowdsourcing platform, the Zooniverse.

Sep 20

Our past, your future: The Open University and Culture Night

Belfast

Join The Open University in its 50th anniversary year to explore how it has made the impossible possible for people across the world through its innovative culture of learning and by adapting to technological change. The event will be interactive and thought-provoking staring with a short video and then followed by a dynamic panel of speakers including past and present OU staff, current students and alumni. Each has a story to tell about how The Open University has already made and continues to make its mark on the world today. Join us for food, drink and celebrations.

Sep 20-22

Bloody Scotland – Scotland’s International Crime Writing Festival

Stirling

The Open University is delighted to support ‘Crime In The Spotlight’ at Scotland's International Crime Writing Festival, Bloody Scotland 2019. The festival is continuing its drive to support new authors, by letting them share a stage with the biggest names in the business, such as Noelle Holten reading before OU honorary graduate Ian Rankin’s event with the First Minister of Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon.

Sep 22

When the Dogs Don’t Bark: Professor Angela Gallop at Bloody Scotland 2019

Stirling

Prof Angela Gallop is the most sought-after forensic scientist in the UK. When the Dogs Don’t Bark is the remarkable story of a life spent searching for the truth, as Professor Gallop takes us to the scene of a crime. Chaired by Dr Jim Turner, Senior Lecturer in Forensic Psychology, The Open University.

Oct 5

OU Maths Saturday at the National Museum of Scotland

Edinburgh

The Open University in Scotland's Maths Team is hosting interactive encryption challenges at the National Museum of Scotland, as part of the museum's Science Saturday events during Maths Week Scotland 2019.

Oct 7-9

Lessons from the Frozen Planet and Blue Planet II, with Mark Brandon

Inverness, Perth and Sterling

Join OU Professor of Polar Oceanography, Mark Brandon, as he dives behind the scenes and explores how science and discovery were the driving forces behind the OU/BBC’s multi-award-winning co-produced documentaries, Frozen Planet and Blue Planet II.

Oct 10

OpenTALKS STEM: A Blue Planet to a Frozen Desert – Exploring the Environments of Venus, Earth and Mars

Milton Keynes

Venus, Earth and Mars all have active and changing atmospheres, important not least in determining whether each planet is suitable for life. Earth today is a vibrant blue planet, teeming with life, while Venus is hot enough to melt lead and has a toxic atmosphere, and Mars is frozen and dry, with no liquid water at the surface. But this has not always been the case: over four billion years ago, Earth was not the most welcoming home for life to begin. In this talk Professor Stephen Lewis will discuss the role played by the weather and climate on each planet, how this is important for spacecraft exploration today and why understanding other planets can tell us more about the Earth. The talk will describe some of the science behind The Planets TV series, first shown on BBC 2 earlier this year.

Oct 14

Science behind the Blue Planet: an interactive talk and panel debate

Edinburgh

Meet the OU academic team who worked on the BBC/OU co-production of the award winning Blue Planet II. This fascinating public talk uses video footage from the TV series and covers the science of our oceans, the experience of the production process, and how science and discovery were the driving forces behind Blue Planet II.

Oct 15

Inaugural Lecture: What's the point of criminal justice history?

Milton Keynes

As The Open University celebrates its 50th anniversary, Paul Lawrence, Professor of History, will deliver his inaugural lecture how a historical approach to criminal justice contributes to contemporary understandings of crime and justice.

Oct 15

Science Showcase at Dynamic Earth

Edinburgh

A Science Showcase exhibition with interactive activities for all. Meet academic and student scientists from the OU involved in BBC broadcasts, find out what they do and how they do it. Get involved in our virtual science experiments and a range of hands-on activities.

Oct 15

1969 And All That - 50 years since the moon landings and 50 years of the OU, with Prof Monica Grady

Edinburgh

Monica Grady, Professor of Planetary and Space Science at the OU, is most well known for her work on meteorites. Her highly engaging public talk at Dynamic Earth will explore developments in space science in the 50 years since the first human walked on the Moon and since the OU was born.

Oct 17

Evaluating the Socio-Economic Benefits of SpacePort Scotland

Edinburgh

The creation of a spaceport in the Highlands of Scotland was announced recently by the UK Space Agency. The OU's Benefits of the European Space Agency Exploration Roadmap in Socio-economics research team are holding an event to discuss the benefits of evaluating the socio-economics of space exploration and what that might mean for a spaceport in Scotland.

Oct 18

OpenFest (staff event)

Milton Keynes

All OU colleagues are invited to join us on our Walton Hall campus to celebrate the OU’s 50th Anniversary year. There will be a variety of exciting OpenTALKS and activities to get involved with throughout the day. As well as quite a few slices of birthday cake!

Oct 23

OpenTalk STEM: An accidental discovery

Milton Keynes

About the time the Open University (OU) was starting, and long before she became the OU’s first female Professor of Physics, Jocelyn Bell Burnell was a graduate student working in radio astronomy. Her research revealed a curious pulsing signal. Hear the story of how pulsars (pulsating radio stars) were accidentally discovered, and what we now know (and don’t know) about them.

Oct 25

The MK Big Chat

The Ridgeway Centre, Milton Keynes

A free exhibition and networking event connecting charities, healthcare, education, businesses and community organisations all under one roof. Hosted by Mark Lancaster MP and Iain Stewart MP. Open to the public from 12.30pm. For more information contact pauline.mitchelmore@parliament.uk

Oct 1-31

OU Roadshow Public Events Across Scotland

Shetland, Orkney, Oban, Dumfries, Inverness, Irvine Stirling

The Open University is hosting public information stands at venues across Scotland in Autumn 2019. Come along and meet our OU staff to find out what it’s like to study with us, what modules and qualifications we offer, and what funding options are available.

Oct 1-31

OU Roadshow Employer Events Across Scotland: ‘Upskilling Your Workforce: Preparing for the Future'

Across Scotland

The OU is running a roadshow of events for employers across Scotland, in partnership with the Scottish Council for Development and Industry (SCDI). The roadshow takes place from 29 August to 5 November and will visit Dundee, Shetland, Orkney, Oban, Dumfries, Inverness, Irvine and Stirling.

Oct 30-31

Jennie Lee: From Lochgelly to The Lords - An Exhibition

Glasgow

An exhibition exploring the life of Jennie Lee, a founder of The Open University: In this exhibition archive materials from the OU Jennie Lee Archive Collection, Glasgow City Archives and ONFife (Fife Cultural Trust) have been brought together for the first time, to tell the fascinating story of Jennie Lee’s life.

Nov 1-5

OU Roadshow Public Events Across Scotland

Shetland, Orkney, Oban, Dumfries, Inverness, Irvine Stirling

The Open University is hosting public information stands at venues across Scotland in Autumn 2019. Come along and meet our OU staff to find out what it’s like to study with us, what modules and qualifications we offer, and what funding options are available.

Nov 1-30

OU Roadshow Employer Events Across Scotland: ‘Upskilling Your Workforce: Preparing for the Future'

Across Scotland

The OU is running a roadshow of events for employers across Scotland, in partnership with the Scottish Council for Development and Industry (SCDI). The roadshow takes place from 29 August to 5 November and will visit Dundee, Shetland, Orkney, Oban, Dumfries, Inverness, Irvine and Stirling.

Nov 1-30

Jennie Lee: From Lochgelly to The Lords - An Exhibition

Glasgow

An exhibition exploring the life of Jennie Lee, a founder of The Open University: In this exhibition archive materials from the OU Jennie Lee Archive Collection, Glasgow City Archives and ONFife (Fife Cultural Trust) have been brought together for the first time, to tell the fascinating story of Jennie Lee’s life.

Nov 6

OpenTalk STEM: Succeeding in STEM – three women profs and their unconventional careers

Milton Keynes

A lively panel discussion featuring three women from the Open University’s STEM Faculty who have recently been promoted to professor. With Professor Josie Fraser in the chair, our panellists, Sally Jordan, Clem Herman and Carol Morris, will talk about their unique and somewhat unconventional career paths. They will discuss all things women and STEM, including top tips for success, how to overcome stereotype threat and imposter syndrome, and their vision of the future for women and STEM at the OU. Our trio of professors will begin by telling their own stories, illustrating how the personal is indeed still political, and how the right support mechanisms can enable women to succeed against the odds.

Nov 14

KMI Festival – the future of knowledge, learning and media

Milton Keynes

Join us for a special celebration of 25 years' of KMi's world leading research. The event is taking place at the OU Library, Thursday 14th November, 11:00 - 15:00, where you will have an opportunity to meet the teams behind the creation of our novel AI, data science, smart city and blockchain platforms. Buffet lunch included – spaces are limited so please book early to avoid disappointment.

Nov 14

Inaugural Lectures: Discovering new planets (double lecture)

Milton Keynes

Discovering new planets:
1. The puzzle of planet Mercury – why go there? David Rothery, Professor of Planetary Geosciences. Professor Rothery will present the dramatic and perplexing history of Mercury – the planet three times closer to the Sun than the Earth, rich in volatile elements.
2. Exoplanet discoveries: Our place in the Star Trek Universe. Carole Haswell, Professor of Astrophysics Professor Haswell will explore how exoplanets offer special opportunities to place planet Earth in context.

Nov 15

OU Orchestra concert

The Hub, Milton Keynes

Come along to the OU Orchestra’s upcoming free concert on 15 November, from 1 – 2pm in the Hub Theatre at the Walton Hall campus. The programme includes performances of Overture to The Wreckers by Ethel Smyth and the second symphony by Alexander Borodin. Everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy a lunchtime of musical performance and no tickets are required.

Nov 16

The Cultural History of Glasgow Research Network - Public Study Day

Glasgow

This public study day is open to anyone with an interest in Glasgow's cultural history. Come along and hear about different aspects of Glasgow's cultural history, and learn about the Glasgow City Archives from a variety of users from the Cultural History of Glasgow Research Network.

Nov 18

Autism and Imagination: beyond the stereotypes - with Dr Ilona Roth

Dumfries

This public event is free and open to anyone with an interest in understanding autism. Join Dr Ilona Roth, an award-winning OU Honorary Associate, to explore the different characterisations of autism.

Nov 19

OpenTALKS STEM: Chemists in their element

Milton Keynes

2019 is the 150th anniversary of the Periodic Table of Chemical Elements, one of the most significant achievements in science. To celebrate this, a group of chemists at the OU reveal their favourite element in the Periodic Table and explain why they like it so much. “What is your favourite element?” may seem an easy question but it is hard to single out only one. Each element has its own distinctive properties and it’s amazing in its own way. This talk will contain some awesome chemistry of metals and non-metals.

Nov 20

Liquid modernity: how do you manage organisations in a fluid modern world? (Student lecture)

Milton Keynes

How do you lead and manage a fluid organisation? Are management theories still relevant in a fluid modern world? In this lecture for new and returning Business and Law students, Professor Devendra Kodwani, Executive Dean of The Open University Business and Law Schools, will reflect on the challenges and opportunities that the era of liquid modernity presents for individuals. You can attend in person, or watch live via our YouTube channel. There will also be stands from the OU Students Association, Student Recruitment and Support Centre, Careers and Employability Services, and Executive Education to browse ahead of the lecture.

Nov 20

Edinburgh: A City of Readers - Public Workshop

Edinburgh

This site-specific and hands-on public workshop will consider the experience of reading, as part of Book Week Scotland 2019. Join Dr Shafquat Towheed and Dr Sally Blackburn-Daniels from the OU’s Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences to find out more about readers in Edinburgh, from the past and the present.

Nov 23

Melanie Reid at Cove and Kilcreggan Book Festival 2019

Helensburgh

In her book The World I Fell Out Of, award-winning journalist Melanie Reid details, with often mordant wit, her experiences in a spinal unit, and the years beyond as she came to terms with being tetraplegic and travelling in a wheelchair. This event will be chaired by OU honorary graduate Ruth Wishart.

Nov 27

OpenTALKS: In conversation with Prue Leith (invitation only)

London

As we celebrate The Open University turning 50, OU Honorary Graduate Prue Leith will share some of the highlights of her career, her reinventions and her thoughts on education and the role of the OU as we look to the next decade (and beyond!).

Dec 1-3

OU Roadshow Employer Events Across Scotland: ‘Upskilling Your Workforce: Preparing for the Future'

Across Scotland

The OU is running a roadshow of events for employers across Scotland, in partnership with the Scottish Council for Development and Industry (SCDI). The roadshow takes place from 29 August to 5 November and will visit Dundee, Shetland, Orkney, Oban, Dumfries, Inverness, Irvine and Stirling.

Dec 2

Music for Dementia

Cardiff

The Open University in Wales is hosting an event following the BBC/OU co-production ‘Our Dementia Choir’ that aired earlier this year. The two-part series, hosted by Vicky McClure, followed a group of individuals who explored the true extent of music’s power in the fight against dementia. The Open University in Wales has partnered up with the Alzheimer’s Society to bring this inspirational documentary to life on your doorstep, with a hint of a festive feel. You will have an opportunity to listen to a range of speakers who will discuss how, and if, music can make a difference to the wellbeing and coping mechanisms for those living with dementia. We will also be joined by a local “Singing for the Brain” choir for a heart-warming sing along session of your favourite Christmas carols. Booking essential.

Dec 6-24

Jennie Lee: From Lochgelly to The Lords - An Exhibition

Glasgow

An exhibition exploring the life of Jennie Lee, a founder of The Open University: In this exhibition archive materials from the OU Jennie Lee Archive Collection, Glasgow City Archives and ONFife (Fife Cultural Trust) have been brought together for the first time, to tell the fascinating story of Jennie Lee’s life.