Wawasan Open University (WOU) has built its reputation as Malaysia’s pioneer in open distance learning by doing more than simply delivering courses online. Since 2006, the university has empowered thousands of professionals and first-generation learners with flexible, industry- relevant pathways designed to fit around busy lives and fast-changing career demands. At the heart of this mission is a commitment to creating engaging, learner-centred digital experiences that not only make education accessible anytime and anywhere, but also keep adult learners motivated and future-ready.
Challenges for Adult Learners in a Digital Environment
“As working adults striving to advance through higher education, our learners face unique challenges, balancing careers, family, and study commitments, often as the first in their family to pursue a degree,” explained Professor Dr. Lily Chan, Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive at Wawasan Open University. “At WOU, we see it as our responsibility not just to deliver education, but to design flexible, motivating pathways that make lifelong learning truly possible.”
One of the most significant barriers for many students is being a first-generation learner with limited experience in higher education. “Many of our students are the first in their family to obtain a degree, and they have often struggled in the past with rigid programmes that do not accommodate their working lives,” Professor Chan noted.
For us, the right learning management platform meant flexibility and an easy-to-use, smartphone-like interface. Five years into our journey with D2L Brightspace, we are very happy with our choice.Prof. Lily Chan Vice Chancellor and the CEO, Wawasan Open University, Malaysia
For the university, the challenge is twofold: providing flexible learning pathways that comply with national education standards while also ensuring that students remain motivated. “Our mission goes beyond providing access. We must create an environment where adult learners stay motivated and engaged throughout their journey. That means leveraging the right digital platforms, personalised support and learner-centred design to sustain momentum and drive real achievement,” she said.
Choosing the Right LMS to Meet Student Needs
Selecting the right learning management system (LMS) was central to this mission. “Choosing a learning platform is critical for universities like ours,” Professor Chan explained. “It must not only deliver curriculum but also inspire and engage learners, while being simple enough for faculty and students to use effectively.”
About five years ago, WOU set out to find an LMS that could meet these needs. Flexibility and ease of use were key considerations. “Most students will not have the patience if the platform is too complicated, and neither will my faculty members when it comes to designing courses. We needed something intuitive and supportive of both learners and educators,” she added.
WOU ultimately selected D2L Brightspace, and the partnership has flourished. As faculty continue to use the platform, they are able to bring greater creativity and innovation to their teaching, evolving learning materials in response to student needs and feedback.
Dr. Dewi A. Sapuan, Director of the Centre for ODL Experiences at WOU, oversees a team of instructional designers and LMS administrators. She describes the collaboration as a partnership rather than a service arrangement.
“The D2L team has been a true partner in every sense, working closely with us to anticipate challenges and co-create solutions that elevate the learner experience. Their responsiveness and collaborative approach ensure that our adult learners, many of whom study independently and remotely, receive the kind of support that keeps them engaged and progressing.”
This sense of partnership was especially evident during a faculty bootcamp hosted in Penang. “What stands out is that our relationship with D2L is not transactional. It is a genuine partnership. From faculty bootcamps in Penang to ongoing platform support, they have been side by side with us, enabling innovation and empowering our team to deliver future-ready learning that makes a tangible difference for students,” Dr. Dewi said.
Our work with D2L is a true partnership, far beyond a mere transaction. Their team is incredibly accommodating and understanding, consistently helping us deliver optimal learning experiences for our students.Dr. Dewi A. Sapuan Director, Centre for ODL Experiences (COLE), Wawasan Open University, Malaysia
Building the Future of Flexible Learning
By aligning technology with the unique needs of adult learners, WOU has strengthened its ability to deliver flexible, relevant, and motivating education. Through its partnership with D2L, the university continues to push the boundaries of digital learning, ensuring that working adults are not only able to access higher education but thrive in it.
Discover more about WOU’s flexible open distance learning for graduate and postgraduate degrees, as well as upskilling through micro-credentials, at www.wou.edu.my.
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