New practical science courses

The Open University appears to be retiring most if not all of its level 2 science summer schools, which I think is a shame. now it appears that they are going to offer alternatives.

 

I was interested in studying SXR205 Exploring the Molecular World which is the companion summer school for S205. However this was discontinued in May 2011.

 

Now the Open University have some new courses listed under the umbrella term Practical Science. They are

 

Practical environmental science (SXE288)

Practical science: biology and health (SXL288)

Practical science: chemistry and analysis (SXC288)

Practical science: Earth and environment (SXG288)

Practical science: physics and astronomy (SXP288)

 

 

All are scheduled for first presentation in February 2012, however at the time of writing there are no prices available.


I am especially interested in SXC288, which includes a 3 day residential school at Bristol University (down from 7 days for the previous summer school).

I have made the following notes:-

• SXC288 is worth 30 points whereas SXR205 was only worth 10.
• SXC288 runs from February to October, much like a traditional OU course.
• There are also online labs to do throughout the year, including a very exciting sounding week long data gathering exercise using a remote webcam!!
• The cost of the residential school is included in the cost of the course (whatever that may be) but accommodation is not.
• The residential school is optional

Overall I am keen to do this course. If I start S205 in October (as planned) then I can start this one in February and the end of course assessments shouldn't clash.

Im just waiting for the prices to be posted and online registration to be opened.