The Role of UNESCO Chair on Open Distance Learning (ODL) in Advancing Innovation and Flexibility in Distance e-Learning

Abstract

Open distance learning and teaching do not require students and lecturers to be in the same space and time for learning, teaching, research, and community engagement to occur.  Instead, the latter are leveraged through the use of modern digital technologies such as internet connectivity, reliable WiFi, and student support in the form of provision of ODL tools of the trade, such as laptops, desktops, tablets, and smartphones. Success in ODL learning, teaching, research, and community engagement requires digitally skilled, capable, and empowered staff and students. This paper explores the role and contribution of UNESCO on Open Distance Learning (ODL) at the University of South Africa (UNISA) in advancing innovation and flexibility in distance e-learning. It does this through offering the reader an historical background of UNISA, which hosts the UNESCO Chair on ODL. Second, it sketches the founding objectives and research initiatives of the UNESCO Chair on ODL. Third, it provides a review of the UNESCO Chair on ODL’s research and innovation (R&) initiatives and impact in distance e-learning, in the form of research seminars, annual research conference, scholarly books and research papers published in international, peer reviewed and accredited scholarly journals.