The Open University (OU) has transformed distance learning for over 2.5 million students since 1971, offering a wide range of qualifications and exceptional student support. It utilizes a 'supported open learning' model, which combines quality materials, logistics, and research, with a student population that includes diverse demographics and many working adults. Key challenges include adapting to evolving technologies and maintaining educational standards while expanding course offerings.

1. 1Distance learning for the 21st centuryTransforming the lives of students at the UK Open UniversityMark EndeanFaculty of Mathematics, Computing and Technology1

2. The Open University in 2010Over 2.5 million students since 1971200,000+ students in 201020,000 outside UKStudy part-time at homeNo entry requirementsAdvantages of scale, scope, qualityIn the top five UK Universities for teaching quality and student satisfaction 2005–09Karen Parker

3. 3The Open University in 2010Total expenditure over £400 millionStudent fees (1/3) and Government funds (2/3)Central campus in Milton Keynes800 academics3000 support staff13 regional or national centres300 academics1000 support staff7500 tutors

4. UKOU teaching programmesSeven facultiesArtsBusiness SchoolEducation and Language StudiesInstitute of Educational TechnologyMathematics, Computing & TechnologyScienceSocial SciencesOU Validation ServicesOpen University Worldwide

5. QualificationsFull range of qualifications offeredpre-degree or ‘access’ coursesHE Certificates and Diplomas Bachelors degrees (BA, BSc, with honours)Masters degrees (MA, MSc)Research degrees (MPhil, PhD)OU has same degree–awarding powers as other UK universitiesAll qualifications meet requirements of UK Framework

6. The OU in a global marketDirect teaching provisionAustriaBelgiumCyprusDenmarkFinlandFranceGermanyGreeceIreland

7. Italy

8. Luxembourg

9. Netherlands

10. Portugal

11. Spain

12. Sweden

13. SwitzerlandThe OU in a global marketMajor partnerships in 15 countriesNew Zealand

14. Romania

15. Russia

16. Singapore

17. Slovakia

18. South Africa

19. Spain

20. USA

21. UzbekistanBrazilBulgariaChinaCzech RepublicEthiopia Hong KongHungaryIndiaMiddle East

22. The Open University in 2010The OU has built its success and reputation on the foundation of the ‘supported open learning’ model:blend of outstanding learning materials,excellent student support,professional logistics, andleading research and scholarshipexcellence without exclusivity

23. Who are OU students?Median age – 32. Youngest student 9 years old! Youngest graduate 17. Oldest graduate 80+.Fastest growing cohort of OU students is 18–24 age-group About 38% studying for a second degree or additional qualification

24. Who are OU students?40% of OU students do not have school-leaving qualifications to get into a traditional universityCurrently some 10,000 disabled students are studying with the OUNearly 80% of OU students are in employment

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41. 27Collaborative learningVLE forumsCollaborative writingwikisblogsElluminateonline tutorials and demonstrationspractice sessionsFlashMeetingonline meetings27

43. Wide range of media optionsPrint: books, supplementary print, readers Offline media: ‘rich media’ delivered on disk, e.g. DVD-video, software etc.Library resources: full range of online library resources available to all students (http://library.open.ac.uk/).Online media: students access web content, online student activities, collaborative work via the OU Virtual Learning Environment (VLE)…Activities: practical work, day events, residential schoolsPublic access: iTunes U, OpenLearn

44. Practices that promote qualityTeams approachesConversations about qualityAcademic capacityComprehensive support systemsQuality enhancement focus

45. The course team approachcourseteamprojectteammedia account managerassociate deancoursemanagermedia project managercourse chairsenior courses manageracademic teamgraphicseditingsound & visioninteractivecourses officetechnical testingcopublishingcourse secretarymaterialsrightsdespatchproject support officeplus…External Assessor

46. Value of the course team approachComplementary skills ( creativity, storytelling, authoring, elearning, critiquing, pedagogical experience etc)Professional inputs from media technologists, broadcasters, information scientists, pedagogists etc.Personal academic developmentPeer feedbackStaff motivation

47. Challenges for the UKOUDesigning learning and support strategies into coursesEvolving the Supported Open Learning Model for the electronic era—on-line and mobile learning. Exploiting new technologies, new media and methodsUpdating and developing professional staffImproving responsiveness, speed, cost & effectivenessDeepening international relevanceBuilding the practical relevance of our courses

48. 34Challenges for all educatorsIncrease volume without reducing standardsMaintain the supply of appropriately-qualified teachersFocus on professionalism of practising teachersAgree global standardsDevelop new pedagogieslearning, teaching and assessmentShare best practice34

49. Muchas gracias!Faculty of Mathematics, Computing and TechnologyThe Open UniversityWalton HallMilton KeynesMK7 6AAwww.open.ac.ukm.h.endean@open.ac.uk