Chapter 1.1 Institutional Transformation to Engage a Diverse Student Body at the Open University

Abstract

This case study focuses on the experience of The Open University in creating educational opportunities and social justice for all since its inception over 40 years ago. Setting developments over the past few years in the context of the University's mission, history and model of supported open learning, the case study identifies institutional transformation as an ongoing, organic process of innovation and embedding of learning that needs to respond to a constantly changing internal and external environment. Increasing student diversity has been achieved through ongoing developments in strategy, governance and practice, underpinned by a developing evidence base that explicitly seeks out the student voice. Whilst the case study is unique, the learning it highlights is transferrable to a wide range of institutions, particularly at a time when the demand for part-time and flexible higher education is on the rise.

Citation

Hart, M. and O'Shea-Poon, T. (2011), "Chapter 1.1 Institutional Transformation to Engage a Diverse Student Body at the Open University", Thomas, L. and Tight, M. (Ed.) Institutional Transformation to Engage a Diverse Student Body (International Perspectives on Higher Education Research, Vol. 6), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 17-28. https://doi.org/10.1108/S1479-3628(2011)0000006004