This module provides an opportunity to sample some key computing and information technology areas. It introduces three topics as tasters for your future studies and career: networking, operating systems and security, and robotics. Studying these topics will enable you to develop essential skills for future employment in the computing and IT industry and better understand the different routes through our curriculum. You can also begin to explore where your future career ambitions or interests might lie.
| Course facts | |
|---|---|
| About this course: | |
| Course code | TM129 |
| Credits | 30 |
| OU Level | 1 |
| SCQF level | 7 |
| FHEQ level | 4 |
| Course work includes: | |
| 3 Tutor-marked assignments (TMAs) | |
| End-of-module assessment | |
| No residential school | |
The module is structured into three study blocks – networking, operating systems and security, and robotics.
You'll study both OU materials and third-party materials that support your learning in the three key topics. The module is practical and activity-based, and the study material is delivered online. You'll therefore be working at your computer for significant periods of time.
Networking essentials
This block provides a sound grounding in the basic principles of computer networks and the challenges in setting these up and maintaining them. Topics covered include protocol models and layering; IP addressing; basic network design and network devices. You'll study online material in the Cisco Networking Academy and carry out practical activities using network simulator software.
Operating systems and security
This block introduces operating systems – the fundamental software that turns hardware into useful and useable computing systems. You'll learn how an operating system manages the computer's processor, memory and storage so that more than one program can run at once. You'll be introduced to Linux, a widely used operating system that runs on small handheld devices, desktops and supercomputers. You'll learn about operating system security and how to maintain a secure system. You'll also carry out practical activities by running the Linux operating system along with a network simulator.
Robotics and AI
This block introduces you to robotics and the design of intelligent machines. Robots are no longer the stuff of fiction; they are found in factories, on the battlefield and in our homes. You'll learn how robots work and how to program and control robots using simulator software. You'll also examine the relationships between humans and robots, the impact robots will have on our lives, and the ethical issues surrounding the use of robots.
As you progress through the module, you'll work through the various practical activities which relate to each block. This will help demonstrate your skills and understanding in the areas you have studied. This will also be a significant component of the end-of-module assessment. Working on these practical activities will help you to think about your interests and will inform decisions you need to make on your future areas of study.
This module will enable you to:
This module has particular vocational relevance to those wishing to develop a career in the IT industry. It provides many opportunities to demonstrate relevant technical knowledge and practical IT skills.
This is an OU level 1 module providing you with the core subject knowledge and study skills needed for both higher education and distance learning and to help you progress to modules at OU level 2.
Technologies in practice (TM129) builds on the skills developed in key introductory modules, particularly Introduction to computing and information technology 1 (TM111). Therefore, if you intend to study both TM111 and TM129, we strongly recommend you study TM111 first.
You will need to be able to do the following on your computer:
If you have any doubt about the suitability of the module, please speak to an adviser. You can also try the Are you ready for TM129 quiz.
You'll have access to a module website, which includes:
You'll get help and support from an assigned tutor throughout your module.
They'll help by:
Online tutorials run throughout the module. Where possible, we'll make recordings available. While they're not compulsory, we strongly encourage you to participate.
The assessment details for this module can be found in the facts box.
The OU strives to make all aspects of study accessible to everyone. The Accessibility Statement below outlines what studying this module involves. You should use this information to inform your study preparations and any discussions with us about how we can meet your needs.
All of this module's study materials are online. Online materials comprise text, images, animations, interactive media and short audio/video clips. Online forums and online rooms are provided. You will also carry out a significant amount of computer-based practical work, particularly using simulator software.
If you're using printed materials as part of reasonable adjustments to support your studies, note that printed versions of online materials are unavailable for this module.
This module has online tutorials. Although not compulsory, tutorials will help you consolidate your learning.
Computer-based practical work is a key component of this module and will be assessed. Advice and alternative assessment tasks have been prepared to enable students with visual or other impairments to successfully study the module.
The study materials contain diagrams and photographs. Figure descriptions are provided for all figures. Transcripts or subtitles are provided for all audio/video.
You may be required to search for, and make use of, third party material online and this is assessed.
This module has tutor-marked assignments (TMAs) and an end-of-module assessment (EMA) that you must submit via the online TMA/EMA service.
You will receive feedback from your tutor on your submitted Tutor-Marked Assignments (TMAs). This will help you to reflect on your TMA performance. You should refer to it to help you prepare for your next assignment.
All University modules are structured according to a set timetable and you will need time-management skills to keep your studies on track. You will be supported in developing these skills.
This module uses specialist software that must be installed on a laptop or desktop computer. The majority of this software can be used with standard accessibility tools.
Technologies in practice (TM129) starts twice a year – in February and October.
This page describes the module that will start in October 2025 and February 2026.
We expect it to start for the last time in February 2030.
This course is expected to start for the last time in February 2030.