Expending access to higher education opportunities via international collaboration : the Open University Malaysia approach

Anuwar Ali, (2014) Expending access to higher education opportunities via international collaboration : the Open University Malaysia approach. In: International Conference on Islamic Education and Islamic Development, 28-29 April 2014, Phnom Penh, Cambodia. (Submitted)

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Abstract

The concept that education can cross borders is inherently linked to open and distance learning (ODL). Its very foundation is borne out of the necessity to expand educational access and opportunities, which in this 21st Century is an increasingly crucial issue, especially in facing global challenges, boosting economic progress and keeping abreast with rapid expansion in information and communication technology (ICT). The importance of higher education in contributing to economic development is universally acknowledged, and is all the more significant for developing countries like Cambodia and Malaysia. The relevance of ODL lies in the reality that the limited resources and facilities of traditional higher education providers have rendered them unable to cope with today’s growing demands. However, the unique ODL approach has proven to be a feasibly way for a more accessible, affordable and flexible means for a greater number of people to attain higher education. The ODL scene in Asia is fast evolving, with a number of established and prominent open universities in Indonesia, Thailand, India, China and other countries. This indicates ODL’s great potential in contributing to economic development by meeting relevant national needs. Furthermore, the open nature of ODL has also paved the way to international collaboration, where learning opportunities are open to every individual, regardless of location or nationality. This paper will consider the idea of education across borders and discuss international collaboration as a means to expand higher education. From the perspective of Open University Malaysia (OUM), this paper will also discuss how the ODL approach can play a pivotal role in advancing the very concept of partnerships in higher education. Finally, this paper will also briefly explore potential opportunities in creating collaborative higher education links between Cambodia and Malaysia. (Abstract by author)

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