Training and skills

The library’s live online training sessions will introduce you to the OU library, show you how to use online resources effectively and help with finding resources for your module. There are also self-guided activities on finding, using and evaluating online information on Being digital.

Skills for life online

Being digital is a collection of short, easy to follow activities. They cover the skills we all need to be effective online, whether it’s searching efficiently, referencing, critically evaluating information, communicating and sharing online or selecting the right online tool for your needs.

Being digital can help you develop essential skills for study, work and lifelong learning.

Skills for OU study

For help with computing skills, preparing assignments and revising see the Study skills section of the Student Help Centre.

Attending live online training sessions

All training is listed on the training and events page on the library website. The library’s online training sessions are run using Online rooms. The first time you access an Online room you may be prompted to install an add-in. There is information about installing the add-in in the Computing Guide. The first time you join a session, allow approximately ten minutes for set-up. After this, using the same device will mean you can take part straight away.

To listen to the trainer during the session, you will need speakers or a headset. You can also use the online text chat to type messages. The online training room interface will be explained to you at the beginning of each session.

To join a session go to the training and events page and select the session title.  Please allow enough time to log on and check your audio set up.

Viewing recordings

Recordings are available of live training sessions under the 'Join Room' link on the session pages. You can download the recording to your computer which can then be viewed offline, or to view a streamed version online. At present it may not be possible to view recordings on a mobile device.

If you experience any problems accessing a recording please contact the Library Helpdesk.