Understand how business works and performance can be improved so that you can take your business forward and manage growth.A successful business relies on processes and information systems; it is important that an entrepreneur pays close attention to how their business works and how performance can be improved so that they are in a position to take it forward and manage growth. Whether you have an idea for a future venture or you already have a side-line business whilst studying, this course cover efficient business processes to improve productivity. This course is the fourth in a series of six about...

Find out how forecasting and managing your finances can lead to a profitable and sustainable business.The management of finances is crucial to a successful business; financial information provides the evidence to support your decisions about a business and helps to justify those decisions when you present them to other people. Whether you have an idea for a future venture or you already have a side-line business whilst studying, this course will introduce you to key financial information and gives you a chance to discuss your ideas with others. This course is the fifth in a series of six about ‘starting...

Raising funds in an important when starting a business; find out which source of funding is most suitable for your business idea.A successful business requires funding to get it started. There are many ways to get your business up and running, from the informal such as personal savings and borrowing, borrowing from friends and family, to the more formal avenues like bank loans, raising equity to crowd-funding. This course will help you consider the finance options available for businesses, and how to fund the expansion of a business. This is the final course in a series of six about ‘starting...

Be prepared for university study in the UK by familiarising yourself with UK culture and higher education.Understand how to make the most of life and university study in the UK.The prestige of a UK university education attracts students from all over the world. However, research shows that transition to UK study is not always easy. Many feel challenged by an unfamiliar educational system, cultural differences, and working in a different language. This course will give you all the help you need to study and thrive in the UK. You’ll become familiar with studying in English and how higher education courses...

Discover some essential supervision skills and strategies to help you support your PhD candidates on their journey to success.Understand your role in the shared journey of PhD supervisionThe outcome of a PhD is not only a thesis defence, but the formation of a researcher, scientist, and leader. PhD supervisors play a crucial role in the academic and professional development of their candidates. During this three-week course from the University of Groningen, you will reflect on your role and responsibilities in the shared journey of PhD supervision. With the mentoring skills and strategies you develop over the course, you’ll be equipped...

Explore the 16th century life of Mary Queen of Scots, and her place in cultural history in the centuries that followed.Discover the life and lasting legacy of Mary Queen of ScotsMary Queen of Scots was born and ascended to the throne of Scotland in 1542, before being forced to abdicate in 1567. She was married three times, first to the king of France, and then to two noblemen from the British Isles, one of whom was spectacularly murdered. She would spend close to 20 years imprisoned by her cousin Queen Elizabeth I before being executed for treason. Her son, James...

Discover how the transport sector can develop infrastructures that meet the needs of a 21st century population.Explore how and why transport systems must change in the 21st centuryWhat are the challenges faced by today’s transport sector? How can transport professionals develop systems that meet the needs of the 21st century? Get answers to these questions and more with this course exploring the future of transport. You will learn about effective transport planning and modelling, considering how transport solutions can become sustainable, reduce pollution and improve the health and safety of people across the world. You will also consider how technologies...

Discover just some of the ways that heroism and the First World War is portrayed through art and film.The centenary of the First World War is a time for reflection and exploration. In this short course you will discover just some of the ways that heroism is portrayed through art and film. You will explore recruitment posters and the messages they portrayed for both those going to war and those staying at home, as well as researching WW1 art and reflecting upon a painting you have chosen. You will then move on to explore contemporary German film, consolidating your learning...

Learn how the natural history of Aotearoa has shaped its unique biodiversity, Māori culture and the values of New Zealanders.Trace how natural history shaped New Zealand landscapes, biodiversity, & cultureAotearoa New Zealand is a land of fascinating natural wonders, founded on a geological and environmental history spanning 85 million years. On this two-week course, you’ll gain an overview of New Zealand’s natural history, exploring how the geology, wildlife, and culture of the islands are interconnected. Guided by the Learning Team at Te Papa Tongarewa, the National Museum of New Zealand, you’ll examine relevant artefacts and exhibits to contextualise your understanding...

Explore the global challenges facing sustainable development worldwide and how to introduce them in schools and HE institutions.Develop the skills to examine sustainable development with all learnersAs part of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, schools and universities have a responsibility to educate all learners on sustainability. On this three-week course, you’ll gain an overview of the key issues relating to sustainability and how to deliver this knowledge, whether you teach in schools or higher education. Explore global sustainability issues with specialist guidance from the Institute of Education at UCL Learning from the experts at the Development Education Research Centre (DERC),...