About
The Open University undertook a range of projects related to “rethinking the book,” which were divided into three interconnected threads.
First, researchers focused on models of production, examining the processes that create high-quality knowledge resources, including book-like materials. The second thread built on this by developing tools to “open out the book,” enhancing reader engagement through interactive experiences. The third strand critically questioned the concept of the book itself, aiming to develop a set of challenging ideas to help rethink its future. This “interactive concept book” project was a key part of that effort.
Since Apple’s introduction of iBooks Author in 2012, textbook innovation expanded significantly, allowing the integration of fully interactive widgets and other in-line resources within sophisticated typographic and design settings. This raised the question of how best to explore these new possibilities.
“Using Linked Data Effectively” by E. Simperl and others, published in January 2014, aimed to facilitate professional training for data practitioners seeking to integrate Linked Data into their daily work. Each chapter addressed a crucial task related to Linked Data, providing an in-depth study of its various applications. The book included webinar recordings, screencasts, and interactive quizzes and exercises to enhance learning and test readers’ understanding.
“Self-Regulated Learning” by Alexander Mikroyannidis and others, published in January 2014, introduced new learning technologies designed to support Self-Regulated Learning and Personal Learning Environments. The book demonstrated a selection of learning tools that helped individuals build their own Personal Learning Environment and develop self-regulated learning skills. It also included a set of interactive learning activities, allowing readers to explore and experiment with these tools.
“Minerals Under the Microscope” by Andrew G. Tindle and Kevin Quick, published in December 2013, provided a richly illustrated exploration of both common and rare minerals found in Britain and around the world. The book featured over 20 minerals, each accompanied by a detailed description and a Virtual Microscope, allowing readers to examine specially selected samples as if they were using a real microscope.
“Fossil Guide” by Peter Sheldon and Andrew Tindle, published in November 2013, served as a comprehensive resource for identifying fossils found in Britain and other parts of the world. Richly illustrated with detailed photographs and drawings, the book provided readers with the necessary information to recognize and appreciate a wide variety of fossils. Its expertly written text offered a depth of detail rarely found in similar guides.
“Advances in Technology Enhanced Learning”, edited by Fridolin Wild, Paul Lefrere, and Peter Scott, was published in June 2013 as the first research iBook. Each chapter was written by different members of TELMap, an EU-funded project.
“Galapagos: A Virtual Field Trip” by Dr. David Robinson was published in December 2012 as the second concept iBook. The project started with the idea of creating a “book without written text,” focusing on a narrative with minimal written content. Inspired by a virtual field tour used in a Level One Basic Science course at the Open University, the book introduced the flora and fauna of the Galapagos Islands. The approach used the Apple iBooks Author program, staying within the provided toolkit while exploring the motif of asking questions and answering them through video evidence.
“Moon Rocks: An Introduction to the Geology of the Moon” by Andrew G. Tindle and Simon P. Kelley was published in March 2012 as the first fully interactive iBook from the Space Research team. The project aimed to combine research support tools with a strong narrative structure, creating an engaging, browsable product with interactive elements like in-line tests to assess readers. It included embedded audio/video and aimed to embed scientific citations directly within the content, so readers didn’t need to leave the book to explore detailed references. Additionally, it featured genuine scientific instruments, allowing readers to measure aspects of the mineral structure discussed in the book.
