Page 43 - Open and Distance Education In Asia : Good Practice From AAOU Members

Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU) 23

advocates APEL formats as a way to create Similar to the rest of the world, the COVID-19
access to education for all. pandemic has pushed to rethink our model.
With all other higher education institutions
OUM’s vision is to be the Leading Provider (HEIs) moving towards online learning, we
of Flexible Learning. This vision is motivated face challenges and in order to be relevant
by the university’s aim to support its adult we need re-evaluate what the present
learners who face huge demands on their educational needs of our learners are and
time due to their commitment for work, family how can we create a learning experience
and society. Studies have shown that largely that enable efficient achievement of the
the factors that cause a learner to drop out targeted learning outcomes by learners.
are related to work, finance and family. We OUM redefined the term quality education
believe that flexible learning would enable in its mission to the United Nations 4
th
learners learn from anywhere and at any Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). It is
time. Flexible must be not misinterpreted as also important for us to be part of the global
offering flexibility at the expense of quality. solutions. Right before the pandemic, OUM
OUM mission clearly states its mission as redesigned its learning skill course to focus
to widen access to quality education and on Learning Skills for 21 Century Learning
st
provide lifelong learning opportunities by for all its diploma and degree learners. Apart
leveraging on technology, adopting a flexible from the basics on self-directed learning,
mode of learning, and providing a conducive literacy skills, and 4C Skills (Creative Thinking,
and engaging learning environment at Critical Thinking, Collaborative Skills, and
competitive and affordable cost. In achieving Communication Skills), awareness and
its vision and mission, the university believes knowledge on the concept of sustainability
in the following five shared values: Integrity, and SDGs were emphasised through
Professionalism, Caring, Teamwork, and topics on Global Citizenship Education and
Innovativeness. Environmental Education.

Open University Malaysia (OUM)