Open University is the name of several national organizations that offer degree, diploma, vocational, professional, and other education courses to adults who study at home or at work. This method of studying involves two processes, called open learning and distance learning. Open learning is the process by which students receive education or training with little or no formal classroom work. Distance learning is a method of study for students who are far away from teachers. Distance learning is also called distance education.
The model for most of the world’s distance-learning institutions is the United Kingdom Open University (UKOU). Set up by royal charter in 1969, the UKOU admitted its first students in 1971. The UKOU is an independent university that offers many distance-learning programs, mainly to home-based students in the United Kingdom. Programs are also available throughout Europe and, usually by means of partnerships with other institutions, in many other parts of the world. Institutions in many other countries offer programs similar to those of the UKOU.
