Online training sessions

We offer a programme of live online training sessions to all OU students and staff. This includes introductions to the online library, how to find information for your assignments and referencing.

The online training sessions are 30 to 60 minutes long and give you live access to a librarian. All the sessions are delivered in Adobe Connect. To find out more about Adobe Connect and to test your audio, please see the Online rooms guidance (login required).

Browse the training sessions below or use the menu on the right-hand side of the page. Click on a session title to find out how to join, download the slides and handout, and access the session recording.

A full list of recent and upcoming events is also available.

The Library Research Support Team also runs a range training sessions for postgraduate researchers throughout the year.

Online training sessions

Exploring Generative AI: critical skills and ethical use

Develop a critical awareness of Generative AI within the context of academic study.

The why and how of referencing

Learn why referencing is important, how to construct references and where to go for help and support.

Smarter searching with library databases

Learn how to access library databases, take advantage of the functionality they offer, and devise a proper search technique.

Using Library Search for your assignment

Learn how to find specific resources and how to find information on a topic using Library Search.

Assessing the reliability of information for your assignment

Learn how to evaluate information and why it is important to look critically at online information sources.

Improving your experience accessing online resources

If you experience difficulties in reading some full text formats this session will show you how to make adjustments to improve accessibility.

Introduction to Library Services

Learn about the online library, how to find help and support, and how to access key services to help with your studies or work at the OU.

Using Library Search for your assignment

Learn how to find specific resources and how to find information on a topic using Library Search.

Smarter searching with library databases

Learn how to access library databases, take advantage of the functionality they offer, and devise a proper search technique.

Assessing the reliability of information for your assignment

Learn how to evaluate information and why it is important to look critically at online information sources.

The why and how of referencing

Learn why referencing is important, how to construct references and where to go for help and support.

Managing your digital footprint

Learn how your digital footprint is created and how to create a positive online identity.

Diverse voices, alternative sources

Learn why it is important to consider diverse perspectives in your research and discover search tips and resources which will help you find them.

Exploring Generative AI: critical skills and ethical use

Develop a critical awareness of Generative AI within the context of academic study.

Reference management tools - an introduction

Learn how reference management tools work and the benefit and risks of using them.

Improving your experience accessing online resources

If you experience difficulties in reading some full text formats this session will show you how to make adjustments to improve accessibility.

Introduction to Library Services

Learn about the online library, how to find help and support, and how to access key services to help with your studies or work at the OU.

Using Library Search for your assignment

Learn how to find specific resources and how to find information on a topic using Library Search.

Smarter searching with library databases

Learn how to access library databases, take advantage of the functionality they offer, and devise a proper search technique.

Assessing the reliability of information for your assignment

Learn how to evaluate information and why it is important to look critically at online information sources.

The why and how of referencing

Learn why referencing is important, how to construct references and where to go for help and support.

Relaxed: Introduction to Library Services