What is the initiative and where is it implemented (city or country)?
The Open University (OU) is a public research university based in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland offering off-campus undergraduate and postgraduate courses for credit. The OU is notable for flexible, innovative teaching and for allowing enrolment from anywhere in the world. The OU uses a unique method of distance learning called ‘supported open learning’. The goal of the university is to address the needs of part-time working students and engage those who would otherwise be excluded from the formal education population. The university also offers non-degree qualifications through certificate courses and continuing education units.
The Open University is one of three UK higher education institutions accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (US) under the United States Secretary of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation
How was the initiative established? How was it implemented?
The Open University was established by the Royal Charter on 23 April 1969. The goal of the initiative was to address a low-income population that was continuously excluded from higher education. The university is notable for its dedication to flexibility and inclusion by being open ‘to people, places, methods, and ideas’
The Open University is led by the Council, which regulates strategy, finances, property and staff. The Senate is responsible for academic matters such as academic strategy, policy, priorities and performance. Members of both regulating bodies have varying backgrounds; academics make up the majority of the Senate and a quarter of the seats in the Council.
Which stakeholders are involved in the design and/or implementation of the initiative? Which sectors do they represent?
The University created a holistic network of partnerships with national and international agencies on various levels.
Collaboration with local employers has facilitated the design of training solutions that encourage reflective learning to be applied in specific contexts. Many OU qualifications are recognized professionally in addition to carrying academic credit. Several foundation courses are designed in collaboration with employers to address immediate technical and professional demands.
The OU collaborates with academic partners through programme validation; partner institutions are updated regularly to ensure alignment with quality assurance systems and OU’s standards and criteria for teaching, learning and staff development.
Through the Social Partnership Network (SPN), The Open University commits to expanding participation in workplace and lifelong learning. The network develops free or low-cost learning opportunities to support individuals in need of personal and career development. Part-time Education for Adults Returning to Learn (PEARL) is an example of such an initiative. The PEARL website offers advice and guidance in the selection of courses and detailed information about levels, modes and types of learning for adults (PEARL, 2020). The range of educational opportunities varies from short, free online courses to part-time university enrolment and is offered nationally.
What are the impacts of the initiative in terms of facilitating lifelong learning? Who does it benefit and how?
The Open University aligns study goals with the right study path and level, supports students with module completion, delivers a quality learning experiences and supports students with personal and professional development.
The OU is dedicated to delivering excellent teaching and research for student success. The initiative focuses on sustainable growth by diversifying its reach and sources of income to ensure financial stability. By investing in technology and fostering an inclusive culture, the OU ensures effective learning and an increased global reach.
‘Supported open learning’, provides flexible learning so that students can balance studies with other commitments. Personal tutors provide support and run tutorials, and specialist advisors help with other aspects of studies. Students receive all-inclusive high-quality materials and can socialize through school days, informal study groups, online conferences and study forums.
Most OU courses are available throughout Europe and some are offered worldwide through partnerships with accredited institutions. While the majority of students are from the UK, The OU maintains its position as a leading global distance learning provider.
The OU is also the largest provider of higher education for people with disabilities
Part Time Education for Adults Returning to Learning (PEARL) is an OU initiative allowing adults to engage in learning through formal university or various non-formal modules. Study modes offered include part-time, full-time, short courses, distance learning, blended, day and block modules, open, and union and work-based learning. The modules are designed to cater to a wide range of learning styles and techniques. The programme unites like-minded learners by creating student communities online and onsite.
PEARL provides a number of grants, as well as reduced fees, for individuals who meet certain criteria. Many courses in literacy and basic mathematics are free.
References:
Part Time Education for Adults Returning to Learn (PEARL). 2020. Planning your Learning. [online] Available at: http://pearl.open.ac.uk/planning-your-learning [Accessed 4 September 2020].
The Open University. 2020. The Open University. [online] Available at: http://www.open.ac.uk/about/main/ [Accessed 4 September 2020].