News
Tuesday, 08 March 2011
Exploring Science at Foxcombe Hall
Foxcombe Hall, set in 15 acres of beautiful landscaped gardens, is home to The Open University in the South. During this special Oxfordshire Science Festival event, you will be able to join in with nature trails, pond-dipping and indoor activities.
Talks
‘Are we alone in the universe?’ by Professor John Zarnecki, 11.00am
The question of whether we are alone in the Universe or not has for ever intrigued us. With recent developments in Space Research and Astronomy, we might be getting closer to being able to answer that question. John Zarnecki, Professor of Space Science at the Open University, will consider some of these issues.
‘Career prospects with a science degree’ by Andy Howells, 12.30pm and 3.00pm
Degree level study combines acquiring subject knowledge with developing broader skills potentially useful in employment. This half-hour session will encourage you to reflect on your motivation for study and how your choice of modules and qualification may enhance your career prospects.
‘Darwin’s Islands’ by Dr David Robinson, 2.00pm
The islands of the Galapagos archipelago are credited with providing the stimulus to Charles Darwin to develop his theory of evolution by means of natural selection. The wildlife of the islands is ‘eminiently curious’ as he wrote in his journal, but is now facing a variety of threats. What does the future hold for Darwin’s Islands?
Outdoor Activities
Nature trail and pond dipping in 15 acres of beautiful woodlands with OU wildlife experts throughout the day.
Indoor Activities
Meteorite collection
Foxcombe's meteorite collection will be on display and you can have the opportunity to hold pieces of the asteroids, moon and Mars in your hands. Find out how these objects can tell us more about the Solar System.
Rocks and minerals collection
Discover all about rocks and magic minerals at our hands on interactive rocks and minerals display.
iSpot and woodland recycling display
The woodland web display shows how nutrients are recycled in the woodland habitat. Dead plant and animal materials are used as food sources by a variety of animals and fungi. So leaf mould, rotting logs, and the bodies of dead animals are transformed into new food resources. The beetle larvae that feast on rotting logs provide nutritious food for badgers and woodpeckers, Worms feeding on leaf litter provide food for woodland birds and shrews.
Garden Room
Learn about robotics and bridge structure at our hands on interactive display.
OU Information zone
Talk to experienced OU advisers and tutors about studying with the OU and browse through OU course materials. OU careers adviser also available for one-on-one discussion.
Please note activities suitable for children 7+, grounds are only partly accessible to wheelchairs and sorry no dogs (except guidedogs)
Free event - booking advisable. For more information, please visit the Open University website.
