FutureLearn

FutureLearn is an offshoot of The Open University providing online courses in a wide range of subjects, many of a scientific nature. The aim is to connect learners from all over the globe with high quality educators, and with each other. Courses are delivered one step at a time, and are accessible on mobile, tablet and desktop, so you can fit learning around your life, rather than your life around learning.

 

Courses are typically from 2 to 8 weeks long and expect you to do between 1 and 4 hours work per week.

The list of courses currently running or soon to be run is here.

Visit to National Coal Mining Museum for England

Wednesday, 9th October. 44 members travelled by coach to the National Coal Mining Museum near Wakefield, Yorkshire. After kitting out with helmet and headlamp, we descended the mine in 3 separate groups, each led by an experienced old miner armed with many an anecdote, and not a few dire warnings about safety!

The tour of the mine took us on a chronological progression of evolving mining techniques and machines, and by the end we could appreciate something of the horrendous conditions endured by young children and women working in the mines up to 1842.

Above ground, we were able to take a brief look at exhibits describing other facets of the history of mining, before watching a film about notable mining disasters, and how each one led to legislation and action to improve safety and conditions of work.

All in all a very interesting visit, and one that can be recommended if you are ever in that part of the country.

From Fukushima to Outer Space

Wednesday 2nd October 2013 – From Fukushima to Outer Space. Adrian Bull, Director of External Relations, National Nuclear Laboratory, Warrington, gave us a fascinating talk about the Threats and Opportunities for the UK Nuclear Industry in the 21st Century.

The nuclear industry is rarely far from the news. Whether it is nuclear’s current and future role in providing the secure, low-carbon electricity which UK homes and businesses need, the management and cleanup of the industry’s legacy at sites such as Sellafield, the advances in technology associated with this work or – as witnessed so dramatically in March 2011 at Fukushima – a serious incident at a nuclear site, this “nuclear” word propels a story into the headlines.

Adrian’s talk focused on what happened at Fukushima, how it has affected plans for new nuclear reactors in the UK, how the UK’s National Nuclear Laboratory fits into the picture and how some surprising connections are being forged between the nuclear industry and other sectors through technology transfer.