Science-Living Without Oil

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This course explores oil’s vital role in the modern world and assesses some of the exciting scientific developments that could lead to sustainable alternatives to oil. Science: living without oil is one of a series of 100-hour flexible online courses introducing fascinating topics in science.

It allows you to learn about this topic just for interest and enables you to try out a new area of study before you commit yourself to further study. You can register and begin this course at any time and will have at least 6 months to complete it.

The course features the distinctive strengths of The Open University (OU) from its years of expertise in distance learning:

◎ The convenience of accessing its clearly presented and sequenced materials, activities and support whenever suits you and wherever you have access to the protected course website – if you prefer, you can print key materials to work on them offline.
◎ The support of an expert learning adviser who can clarify study materials, answer questions and help you relate the course to your specific needs.
◎ An online interactive quiz that you can attempt as many times as you wish to help you test your own learning.
◎ A statement of participation from the OU which you can use to demonstrate your engagement with the course.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

Demonstrate general knowledge and understanding of some of the basic facts, concepts, principles and language relating to the science and social issues appropriate to the development of alternatives to oil products. In particular, you should be able to demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of:

◎ The chemistry of oil products and their renewable alternatives
◎ Some of the key scientific concepts used in the development of alternative energy sources and biomaterials
◎ Some of the key social and environmental factors influencing decision-makers in relation to the development of renewable alternatives to oil products.