International Distance Education Conference 2011 - Penang

International Distance Education Conference 2011
Open Distance learning: Achieving Sustainable Development for Bottom Billion
12 - 14 September 2011, Park Royal Hotel, Penang, Malaysia

Malaysia aspires to be a developed nation by 2020. One of the efforts to achieve that status is to have a knowledge-based human capital that will drive and sustain that journey. The paramount need to raise the education level of about 80% of the workforce in Malaysia will place a heavy burden on the country’s existing tertiary education system as places are limited and the competition is stiff. It is thus evident that to ameliorate the problem of transforming the workforce, an alternative education system will have to be provided as the main thrust for the human capital to acquire new and relevant knowledge and skills and at the same time ensuring that they remain in employment. Open and distance learning must be the viable alternative to provide tertiary education to people who either never had the chance or gave up their chance to pursue a university degree.

Universiti Sains Malaysia, through the school of Distance Education (SDE), has helmed distance education programs in Malaysia since 1971 and 2011 marks its 40th year as the main role player to meet the country’s need in providing quality open and distance education for Malaysians. In the last four decades, the distance education institution at USM has grown and matured from a unit attached to the School of Humanities and offering its programmes, to become a centre administrating programmes offered by other schools in USM, to finally taking its place as a full fledge school offering its own degree programmes. No doubt, within this period, the School of Distance Education (SDE) has contributed to the development of the human capital in Malaysia and has helped thousands of students to obtain their bachelors’ degree while opting to continue to remain in full time employment.

As part of its celebration to mark its 40th year, SDE is planning to organise an international conference which will serveas a platform for distance practitioners and educators world-wide to discuss issues related to the development, future and challenges of distance education. This will allow distance educators at SDE as well as counterparts engage in the same ODL business to chart the future course in transforming higher education to meet the challenges of sustainable development as well as to reach out towards the bottom billion.

This effort is also in tandem with the national APEX mission of raising the capacity for knowledge and innovation in order to move the economy up the value chain, to improve the standard and sustainability of the quality of life and to strengthen the institutional and implementation capacity. This is also in line with the vision of the USM Vice Chancellor, the Honourable Prof. Tan Sri Dato’ Dzulkifli Abdul Razak, that the university’s drive is “to re-examine the core foundation of its being, and takes cognition of the need to amalgamate the vital elements of the economy, society and the environment”.

Important Dates

Please take note of the following dates:

May 31, 2011
Deadline of submission of full paper

June 30, 2011
Notification of Acceptance

July 30, 2011
Last day of Registration

September 12 - 14, 2011
Conference Proper

Details: https://sites.google.com/site/idecmy2011/Home

International LifeLong Learning Conference 2011

The ILLLC2011 conference will be held at the Seri Pacific Hotel in KL on 14th and 15th November 2011.

The theme of the conference is: "Transforming Nations Through Enculturation of LifeLong Learning." The sub-themes are as follows:

Laying the Foundation:

* Nurturing the culture of lifelong learning
* Learning communities for sustainable development
* Empowering marginalised communities
* Overcoming barriers and challenges

Lifelong Learning for National Development:

* Driving human capital and human resource development
* The role of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET)
* Making lifelong learning relevant for the workplace
* Current practices and future options

Policies and Implementation:

* The roles of the government and private sector
* Bridging the gap between formal and non-formal education
* Measuring lifelong learning: Qualification framework, regulation and quality assurance
* Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL)
* Funding and managing lifelong learning programmes

Realising Lifelong Learning for All:

* Democratising lifelong learning: Ensuring access, opportunity and equity
* Leveraging on technology for lifelong learning
* Creating a conducive environment for lifelong learning

The conference is co-organized by Open University Malaysia, Ministry of Higher Education and University Kebangsaan Malaysia.

Important Dates:

Call for Papers: 1 April 2011
Abstract Submission: 30 May 2011
Notification of Abstract Acceptance: 15 June 2011
Submission of Full Paper: 15 August 2011
Notification of Full Paper Acceptance: 15 September 2011
Submission of Camera-Ready Paper: 30 September 2011
Registration (Early Bird): 30 September 2011
Registration: 15 October 2011
Conference: 14 - 15 November 2011

For details: http://iclll2011.oum.edu.my/


General Guidelines for Submitting an Abstract

• Abstracts should not be more than 200 words. Abstracts of more than 200 words will be rejected by the system.

• Abstracts should be sent via the Abstract/Paper Submission System not later than 30 May 2011.

• Abstracts should incorporate the objectives, methodology, results, implications and possible future studies.

• The paper title should not exceed two lines or 30 words.

General Guidelines for Submitting Full Papers

• Authors are encouraged to submit full papers describing original, unpublished research that is addressing any of the sub-themes but not currently under review by another conference or journal. The full paper should include a title, author’s name, affiliations, e-mail address, figures/tables and references. All authors are requested to adhere to the guidelines for preparing the full paper. The total number of words should be between 3,000 and 4,000.

• Paper submission is via the Abstract/Paper Submission System

• Papers should be in Microsoft Word format (.doc/.docx). Do NOT zip/compress the file! Any embedded OLE object should be in one of the default formats that come with Microsoft Office such as MSExcel or Powerpoint. Please ensure that all personal information is removed from the paper and the file properties, and that the first line is the title line.

• Once the paper has been uploaded, you will receive an acknowledgement confirming that your paper has been received. If you fail to receive this confirmation, please e-mail the secretariat at iclll2011@oum.edu.my

Global Learn Asia Pacific 2011

Global Conference on Learning and Technology

March 28 - April 1, 2011

Melbourne, Australia



The mission of the Global Learn Asia Pacific Conference, organized by the AACE, is to further the advancement and innovation in learning and technology. As the educational world becomes increasingly global, new ways to explore, learn, and share knowledge are needed.

Global Learn serves as a means to connect and engage creative educators, researchers, consultants, training managers, policy makers, curriculum developers, entrepreneurs, and others in the topics and fields in which they are passionate. Many individuals are transforming learning environments in local as well as more global ways. Global Learn offers an opportunity to meet and discuss their ideas, findings, and next steps.

Important Dates:

Final Call for Submissions: Jan 21, 2011

Final Call for Virtual Submissions: Jan 21, 2011

Early Registration: Feb 8, 2011

Author Confirmation: Feb 8, 2011

Proceedings File: Feb 8, 2011

Hotel Reservations: Feb 26, 2011

Major Topics:

* Advanced Technologies for Learning and Teaching
* Innovative Approaches to Learning and Learning Environments
* Educational Reform, Policy, and InnovationYarra Valley, Melbourne
* Evaluation and Quality Improvement Advances
* Assessment and Research
* Global Networks, Partnerships, and Exchanges
Open Education
* Technologies for Socially Responsive Learning
* Virtual and Distance Education

Conference Venue:



The Sebel Albert Park, Melbourne
65 Queens Road
Melbourne VIC 3004
Australia
Phone: 61 3 9529 4300
Fax: 61 3 9521 3111

For further information: http://aace.org/conf/glearn/

11th Annual SEAAIR Conference 2 - 4 November 2011, Chiangmai, Thailand

11th Annual SEAAIR Conference
2 - 4 November, Chiangmai, Thailand

Theme: University Social Responsibility: Pathways to Excellence

Subtheme:

1. Academic endeavors and excellences
2. IR responses and responsibilities
3. Educational and technological advances and applications
4. Institutional capacities and capabilities
5. Quality tenacity and tenets
6. New, creative, innovative and esoteric initiatives

All accepted papers will be published in peer reviewed proceedings

Important Dates

July 15 Deadline of submission of abstract
July 22 Notification of accepted abstract
August 1 Deadline of submission of full papers
August 31 Confirmation of accepted full papers
September 15 Deadline of submission of revised full papers
October 1-20 Registration period

For details: http://www.seaair2011.org/index.php

Call for papers - the Cambridge International Conference

Internationalisation and Social Justice: the role of Open, Distance and e-Learning
Sunday 25 to Wednesday 28 September 2011

Madingley Hall, Cambridge


Call for papers - the Cambridge International Conference

A call for papers has been released for the Fourteenth Cambridge International Conference on Open, Distance and E-learning 2011, to take place on 25-28 September in Cambridge, UK.


Presented by The Von Hügel Institute, St Edmund's College, Cambridge in association with The Open University and The Commonwealth of Learning, the conference will explore the role of open, distance and e-learning within the context of internationalization and social justice. Contributions are invited on the following key areas of interest:

*
What is the unique contribution of open, distance and e-learning (ODEL) to social justice?
* How far does ODEL promote international social justice or simply further the digital divide?
* What is the role of cross-border education in supporting social justice? Is it more likely to promote cultural imperialism?
* How can one align market pressures and institutional values in international ODEL? Are business and development agendas compatible?
* What are the Quality Assurance issues in cross-border delivery?
* How can different teaching and learning styles be supported internationally?
* How can we promote intercultural understanding through open, distance and e-learning?

Full papers should be submitted by 4 May 2011. Please click here for guidelines.

Keynote speakers

Professor Narend Baijnath, Vice-Principal at ICDE member institution, the University of South Africa (Unisa)

Dr Alan Davis, President of ICDE member institution and host of SCOP 2011, Empire State College, New York's Open University, State University of New York, USA

Stamenka Uvalic-Trumbic, Chief of Section for Reform, Innovation and Quality Assurance of Higher Education at UNESCO

Dr Helen Yanacopulos, Director for Environment, Development and International Studies programmes at ICDE member institution, The Open University, UK

For details: http://www2.open.ac.uk/r06/conference/

24th ICDE World Conference on Open and Distance Learning 2nd - 5th Oct 2011 Bali, Indonesia

24th ICDE World Conference on Open and Distance Learning
2-5 October 2011, Nusa Dua, Bali-Indonesia

Welcome Message

On behalf of the Organizing Committee of the Conference, I am pleased and honored to announce that the 24th ICDE World Conference will be hosted by Universitas Terbuka, Indonesia, supported by the Ministry of National Education of the Republic of Indonesia from 2 – 5 October, 2011 in Bali, Indonesia.

This conference will be a forum for participants to share and learn from each other on how to plan, develop and better manage Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programs. Since there is a wide range of content in ODL programs in participating institutions/ countries which cover all of those three components, directly or indirectly it will help promote the new way of thinking about a future in which environmental, societal, and economic considerations are balanced in the pursuit of development and improved quality of life.

Eradicating poverty and reducing disparities in living standards in different parts of the world are essential to achieve sustainable development and meet the needs of the majority of people. The full participation of women is also essential to achieve sustainable development. There is a close relationship between level of education and socio-economic status of the people/community. ODL expands learning opportunity to more adults and children regardless their genders, socio-economic backgrounds, ages, and geographical location so that they can receive more education, more income and later on improve their quality of life.

Considering the background, current conditions and future trends of ODL, the conference takes the theme of “Expanding Horizons – New Approaches to Open and Distance Learning (ODL)”. The conference will focus on issues related to the role of ODL in leading edge online learning paradigm from organizing distance education to building the knowledge-based society. This theme includes promoting education for all as part of widening education opportunities, managing ODL for global network information and communication, and public ownership of ODL.

The venue for the World Conference will be the Westin Resort Nusa Dua in Bali, Indonesia. Located in the central part of Indonesia, Bali is connected by air with major international cities in Asia, Europe and the Pacific region. Bali is a well-known international and multicultural island. It is a land that seems to have a magnet at its very heart. It is a feeling that is difficult to understand unless experienced but once visited you are surely compelled to come back and you may even want to stay forever. Maybe it is Bali’s beauty, maybe the friendly people, or maybe even the influence from spirits that certainly abide in this place.

As Rector of the host institution, Universitas Terbuka, I would like to invite and extend my warmest welcome to all scholars, researchers, administrators, and policy-makers working in the ODL field and interested in this theme to participate in the conference. I believe that the 24th ICDE World Conference will be a great event for all participants to exchange ideas and experience of ODL.

Tian Belawati

Rector of Universitas Terbuka, Indonesia


Important Dates:

* Abstract submission opens:
1 September 2010

* Abstract submission closes:
31 March 2011

* Announcement of accepted abstract:
30 April 2011

* Full paper or poster submission closes:
15 July 2011

* Early bird registration deadline:
30 May 2011

* Registration deadline:
2 October 2011

For details: http://www.ut.ac.id/icde2011/

25th AAOU Annual Conference - Penang, Malaysia 28th to 30th Sept 2011

Transforming Asia through Open Distance Learning (ODL)

TRANSFORMING ASIA THROUGH OPEN DISTANCE LEARNING (ODL) has been selected as the main theme for the 25th Annual Conference of Asian Association of Open Universities to focus on the role open and distance learning played in bringing about a major transformation in the education landscape in almost all countries in Asia over the past three and half decades.

Key features of ODL in Asia include huge student population often exceeding 100,000 students (mega universities), the establishment of dedicated single-mode ODL institutions by many governments, the rapid adoption of advances in ICT use and globalization. All these features have shaped the development of ODL and infl uenced the type of ODL systems adopted by various Asian countries.

Abstract & Paper

SUB-THEMES

1. Culture and Social Change

Given that Asian ODL communities are diasporas in evolution, culture and social change are deemed critical for progressive mindsets, knowledge creation and ownership, for learning to benefit everyone. The challenges confronting the transformation that need addressing are complex and would require consideration in context. This sub-theme will address the following areas:

• Empowering marginalized communities in Asia
• Nurturing the culture of lifelong learning
• Overcoming challenges and barriers to culture and social change
• Social networking for development
• Celebrating diversity and multicultural perspectives in ODL
• Culture and learning communities for sustainable development

2. Quality

Distance education is entrenched within a dynamic global marketplace involving a wide range of players. A culture of quality which transcends control mechanisms and managerial dictates has to be inculcated to ensure adequate purview on the activities related to programme development and the processes of teaching and learning. This sub-theme will address the following areas:

• Programme planning and development
• Course design, development, production and delivery
• Learner support services
• Evaluation and assessment
• Effective staff training and development
• Accreditation of programmes and institutions

3. Business Model and the Role of Partnership in ODL

The future of ODL business is heavily dependent on the effective leveraging of ICT infrastructure and on becoming a virtual higher education institution. It relates to the efficacy and sustainability of business models adopted by ODL institutions to create, deliver and capture economic value while delivering education in the contemporary world. This sub-theme will address the following areas:

• Customer segmentation
• Product offering and delivery
• Financial viability
• Value propositions
• Sustainable partnerships

4. Technology

Technology is rapidly transforming the delivery of education and training. The innovative use of
modern multimedia and web-based technologies has enabled the creation of interactive educational and training tools and activities aimed not only at enriching the learning experience of a diverse community of learners but at increasing opportunities for learning as well. This sub-theme will address the following areas:

• Application of mobile technology in open and distance learning
• Development of open education resources (OERs)
• Asynchronous and synchronous delivery of educational content
• Use of web technology in e-learning
• Application of virtual and augmented reality in education
• Bridging the digital divide

5. Future Trends

The transformation of Asia through ODL will hinge on advancements which look ahead and might even anticipate paradigm shifts in this mode of education. This sub-theme will address the following areas:

• Knowledge and innovation
• Management of ODL
• ODL and life long learning
• New technologies for transforming ODL
• Addressing challenges in new learning environments
• Research and development

CONFERENCE LANGUAGE

English shall be the language of the Conference. No translation services will be provided.


CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS

Only full papers that are submitted by the specified deadline will be included in the Conference CD proceedings. The submitted papers will not be subjected to editorial changes, thus leaving the responsibility for the quality of language to the author(s).

Important dates

30th May, 2011
Deadline for abstracts

15th June, 2011
Notification of acceptance of abstracts

1st July, 2011
Early-bird registration

15th July, 2011
Deadline for submission of full papers for publication

1st September, 2011
Deadline for registration

Details at: http://www.wou.edu.my/aaou25/index.htm

Nursing must keep up with technology (The Star)

The nursing profession should be on par with the development of technology to ensure its relevance in the current era, said Open University Malaysia (OUM) chancellor Tun Jeanne Abdullah.

The wife of former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said it was critical to utilise technology to transform the manner nursing care was conceptualised and delivered.







In keeping up with the times, she said, technology should be integrated with nursing as it could contribute enormously to a patient’s health and well-being.



“Thus, integrating technology and caring behaviour in this profession can improve the service provided and maximise the desired patient outcome,” Jeanne said in her keynote address before officiating the International Conference on Nursing (Icon 2010) on Tuesday.

The two-day conference, titled “Technology and Innovation in Nursing”, was organised by OUM and aimed at providing opportunities for participants to deliberate on issues pertaining to clinical practices, education and management in nursing.

On the use of technology, Jeanne said it would bode well for the nursing field as it helped nurses provide a higher quality of care and reduced human error.



She added that the forum was significant for participants to share and discuss how to implement the new concept to the caring profession.

“This conference will be focusing on how technology can contribute to health care efficiency, quality, safety, and would also enhance nurses’ decision-making and patient care while easing overall workloads,” she said.

The inaugural international conference was attended by 222 participants from 22 countries, including Malaysia. A total of 30 papers were presented at the event. — Bernama

24th AAOU Annual Conference Hanoi Vietnam - Part 2

Deputy Prime Minister of Vietnam delivers his opening address. Picture courtesy of Zulhairi

The 24th Association of Asian Open Universities (AAOU) annual conference held in Hanoi from 26th to 28th October 2010 has brought many fond memories to 12 participants of Open University Malaysia. It was made more memorable with the warm greetings and kind hospitality provided by the host, Hanoi Open University.

The dragon dance performance during the opening ceremony. Picture courtesy of Zulhairi

Before coming to Vietnam, we generally have different perceptions towards Vietnam. But the moment we landed at the Noi Bai Hanoi International Airport, our perceptions were proven wrong. We were greeted by students volunteer, who could speak some good English, which all of us could understand. These students were holding placards with the AAOU 2010 words on it. They made us feel very much at home showing us the direction we required.

Yhung (in red), one of students volunteer meeting us on arrival at the Noi Bai Airport, Hanoi, Vietnam

Our group from OUM was taken care by 4 students, Yhung, Oanh, An, and Ken taking us from the airport to Melia Hanoi hotel where we stay. The hotel was also the venue of the conference.

At the ceramic factory. From left: Rina, Dr. Janet Woo, Richard Ng, Zulhairi, Iryanty and Umi

The Cho Dong Xuan bazar in Hanoi. Picture courtesy of Zulhairi

As our bosses (Tan Sri Anuwar Ali and Prof. Mansor) were busy at the AAOU Exco meeting, we took the opportunity to do a city tour of Hanoi where we visited the Ceramic and Silk Factory in the morning.

Group photo at the Melia Hanoi Hotel before our city tour

We stopped for lunch at the Nisa Restaurant, a Malaysian owned restaurant. Of course our meal is the local Pho (pronounced as fur) beef noodle soup. In the afternoon, we went shopping at the Cho Dong Xuan bazar where you can find all the things that you want from locally made biscuits, Nike and Adidas shoes, souvenirs, to products made of silks, leather belts and furniture. One of the unique things about Hanoi was that the people generally like to have tea and local liquor along the walk-way sitting on stools and small tables.

A typical scene on the streets of Hanoi City

Tan Sri Anuwar Ali (left), talking to Dr. Olubiyi Adeniyi Adewale of Nigeria Open University

Group photo after the dinner on the first night

We were hosted to a dinner for three consecutive nights. On the first night, we were hosted to a dinner by the Hanoi Open University, the conference organizer. We were treated to a 8-course meal with free flow drinks. We were also treated to a cultural performance during the second night hosted by the Ministry of Education and Training of Vietnam. On the final day of the conference, we were treated to a farewell dinner at the Sen Restaurant, located at the West Lake of Hanoi, approximately 45 minutes away from Melia Hanoi Hotel. It was hosted by the Deputy Minister of Vietnam. We were served with mostly local Vietnamese dishes.

Deputy PM of Vietnam, Prof. Nguyen, shaking hand with Tan Sri Anuwar Ali

Prof. Mansor (left) and Tan Sri Anuwar Ali among the participants at the conference

The signing ceremony of MOUs between Open University Malaysia, Hanoi Open University, Thailand, Philippines and Indonesia. Picture courtesy of Zulhairi

The proper conference started on the second day on 27th October 2010 at 8.30am. The conference was officially opened by the Deputy Prime Minister of Vietnam, Prof. Nguyen Thien Nham. It was followed by a cultural performance and dragon dance. Five keynote addresses were delivered. Several keynote addresses were also delivered. The highlight of the morning session was the signing of MOUs between Open University Malaysia and Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University of Thailand, Hanoi Open University, Philippines Open University and Universitas Terbuka Indonesia to collaborate on areas of developing programmes.

Posing in front of AAOU 2010 backdrop. From left: Prof. Latifah, Prof. Mansor. Tan Sri Anuwar Ali and Richard Ng

In the afternoon the parallel session began where participants presented their papers. Among the presenters from OUM include Prof. Mansor and Dr. Janet Woo.

Prof. Mansor gave a powerful presentation of his paper. Picture courtesy of Zulhairi

Prof. Mansor presented two papers entitled: "Widening Access and Improving Retention in Open and Distance Learning: The Strategies of Open University Malaysia" and "Helping distance learners stay connected: The effectiveness of mobile learning via SMS at Open University Malaysia".

Dr. Janet Woo presenting her shortlisted for Best Paper award paper

Dr. Janet's paper entitled, "Developing Quality Learning Materials for Effective Teaching and Learning in an ODL environment: Making the jump from print modules to online modules", was shortlisted for the best paper award.

Prof. Tan Sri Anuwar Ali delivers his keynote address

On the third day of the conference, on 28th October, 2010, Emeritus Prof. Tan Sri Dr. Anuwar Ali, President and Vice Chancellor of OUM, delivered his keynote address entitled "Going Global: Ensuring Sustainability, Access, Equity and Quality in Open and Distance Learning".

Richard Ng presenting his paper during the conference

In the afternoon, Richard Ng, Director of OUM Perak Learning Centre, presented his paper entitled: "Improving Graduation Rates of Open and Distance Learners via Online Community".

Umi Hanim asking for clarification during the parallel session

The 2-day conference witnessed the participation of over 500 participants from 22 countries. 173 papers were presented under 5 sub-themes. The main theme of the conference was: "OPEN DISTANCE LEARNING TOWARDS BUILDING SUSTAINABLE GLOBAL LEARNING COMMUNITIES".

During the closing ceremony, the outgoing President of AAOU 2010, Prof. Tian Belawati of Indonesia, announced the incoming newly elected AAOU 2011-2013 President, Prof. Wong Tat Meng of Malaysia. Also announced was the winner of the best paper awards and Young Innovators award. The Gold Medal went to Korea, and the two Silver Medals went to the Philippines and Malaysia.

Participants of the AAOU 2010 conference from OUM took the opportunity to visit Ha Long Bay on the final day before departing for Malaysia. The group chartered a boat to take them to visit the mystical mountains which numbered about 2,000. The journey took us almost 3.5 hours to arrive from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay. We spent almost 3 hours at the Ha Long Bay enjoying the scenic beauty and the Heaven Cave located at Ha Long Bay. The weather was good with temperature about 13 degrees Celcius.

24th AAOU Annual Conference Hanoi Vietnam - Part 1

Prof. Tian Belawati, President of AAOU 2010 delivering her speech

The 24th Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU) Annual Conference began in Hanoi on 26th Oct 2010. As usual the AAOU board members will hold their annual meeting to discuss any matters arising.

The dragon dance performance during the Opening Ceremony

Honoring the exco members of AAOU

Emeritus Prof. Dr. Anuwar Ali delivering his keynote address

Among the participants from OUM (from left), Prof. Dr. Latifah, Prof. Dr. Mansor Fadzil, Tan Sri Dr. Anuwar Ali and Richard Ng

The AAOU 2010 conference which was held at the Melia Hanoi hotel in Vietnam was officiated by the Deputy Prime Minister of Vietnam, Prof. Nguyen Thien Minh. Earlier, Prof. Dr. Pham Minh Viet, Organizing Chairman of the conference delivered his welcoming address. The opening session was followed by a dragon dance performance. In his speech, Prof. Nguyen hoped that the conference will be able to assist Vietnam in developing its Open and Distance Learning.

Richard Ng with Prof. Pham of Hanoi Open University, the Organizing Chairman of AAOU 2010

Signing of MOU between Open University Malaysia and Open Universities of Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia and Vietnam

Among the keynote speakers invited to speak during the conference include Emeritus Prof. Dr. Anuwar Ali, the President of Open University Malaysia. Others include Prof. Asha Kanwar of Commonwealth of Learning, Emeritus Prof. Gajaraj Dhanarajan of Wawasan Open University, Prof. Jon Baggaley of Athabasca University, Prof. Insung Jung of International Christian University, Prof. Hiromitsu of The Open University of Japan, Prof. Lam of Thang Long University, and Dr. Gatot Hari of SEAMOLEC.

Prof. Mansor presenting his first paper

More than 500 participants from over 20 countries attended the 3-day conference. A total of 173 papers were presented under 5 different sub-themes; Ideology and philosophy; Partnership and Communication; Methodology and Technology; Sustainability, Accessibility,Equity and Quality; and Opportunities and Challenges. The most popular sub-theme is Methodology and Technology with 73 papers.

Recipients of the best paper award: (from left) Gold Medalist - Korea, Silver Medalist - Philippines, Prof. Tian Belawati, President of AAOU, Silver Medalist - Malaysia

Presenters from OUM include Prof. Mansor Fadzil (Senior VP), Prof. Latifah, Dr. Janet Woo Tai Kwan, Richard Ng, and Umi Hanim. Dr. Janet's paper was one of the shortlisted papers for best paper award.

For three consecutive nights, participants were hosted for dinners by Conference Organizer, The Ministry of Education and the Government of Vietnam. The 3-day conference ended on 28 October 2010. During the closing, it was announced that a new president for AAOU has been elected for the period 2011 till 2013.

Prof. Tian Belawati, the outgoing AAOU President from Indonesia (right) passing the AAOU flag to the newly elected AAOU President, Prof. Wong Tat Meng of Malaysia

The handover ceremony was held briefly with the passing of the AAOU flag from the current President Prof. Tian Belawati of Indonesia to Prof. Wong Tat Meng of Malaysia. It was also announced that the next AAOU Conference will be held in Penang in Sept 2011.

International Higher Education 2010 Conference in Perth, Australia

IADIS International Conference on International Higher Education 2010
29, 30 November and 1 December 2010 – Perth, Australia

Call for Papers

Technology like transport, communication and media-based learning have increased our ambitions to make education more global and international. Higher education has gradually felt more affinity towards the exchange of students; Diversity and learning in concentration with different cultures that has settled as road map for the coming decades. Firstly, motivation for international higher education to promote students’ mindset towards different cultures, languages and traditions. Secondly, allowing students to learn multi-cultural contexts to anticipate to the later career that involve cooperation in international teams. As inevitable side effect, universities welcome international students as source of income and exchange knowledge and skills. To be more precisely, students will take part of their courses abroad, and at least they should match a similar amount of incoming students in order to play par.

This conference aims at the scientific, pragmatic and policy awareness among scholars who face the direct need to make their curricula more culturally fair. European exchange programs like the Erasmus Mundus, the U.S. Council on International Educational Student Exchange, and the Euro-American “Atlantis” program, they all envisage an urgent agenda on how to balance local with the more global criteria in higher education. This conference helps you to build your networks and international consortia on how to be a key player in this emergent trend.

Though not exclusive, the next topics are welcome for papers, posters, symposia and forums

1. Technologies for spreading learning around the world

2. Higher Education and International student exchange

3. Learning far away from home and close to your future colleagues

4. Learning in multicultural contexts

5. Virtual presence as option for extending the students’ learning space

6. Formal and pragmatic obstacles and opportunities in student exchange programs

7. Double- versus joint degrees

8. Funding resources for staff and student exchange

9. How to establish campuses as multicultural communities

10. Coping with incompatibility in semester-, trimester and quarter year course periods

11. Trade-offs between student exchange in the bachelor- versus the master stage?

12. Will English be the default language for master courses around the globe?

13. Does studying abroad imply “living together with local students”, or prefer “international student houses”?

14. How to recruit highly talented students abroad?

15. How to defend the yielded higher criterion to the access of regional- and local students?

16. How to evaluate students’ readiness for studying abroad?

17. Acculturation: what preliminary intercultural need to be trained before been sent to a study abroad?

This conference will focus both on the acute main streams of student exchange:
- Eastern Asia to Europe, the U.S., Australia and New Zealand
- Among Western and Eastern European countries
- Among Spain, Portugal and Southern American countries
- Among Europe and the U.S.

The Conference will be composed of several types of contributions:

* Full Papers – These include mainly accomplished research results and have 8 pages at the maximum (5,000 words).

* Short Papers – These are mostly composed of work in progress reports or fresh developments and have 4 pages at maximum (2,500 words).

* Reflection Papers – These might review recent research literature pertaining to a particular problem or approach, indicate what the findings suggest, and/or provide a suggestion - with rationale and justification - for a different approach or perspective on that problem. Reflection papers might also analyze general trends or discuss important issues in topics related to Applied Computing. These have two pages at maximum (1500 words).

* Posters / Demonstrations – These have one page at the maximum (625 words) besides the poster itself (or demonstration) that will be exposed at the conference.

* Tutorials – Tutorials can be proposed by scholars or company representatives. A proposal of maximum 250 words is expected.

* Panels – Discussions on selected topics will be held. A proposal of maximum 250 words is expected.

* Invited Talks – These will be made of contributions from well-known scholars and company representatives. An abstract will be included in the conference proceedings.

* Doctoral Consortium - The Doctoral Consortium will discuss on going work of PhD students in an informal and formative atmosphere. Contributions to the consortium should take the form of either:

- a critical literature review of the research topic providing the rationale for the relevance and interest of the research topic; or

- a short paper discussing the research question(s), research objectives, research methodology and work done so far.

Doctoral Consortium Contributions should have a maximum 2,500 words (4 pages).

* Corporate Showcases & Exhibitions – The former enables Companies to present recent developments and applications, inform a large and qualified audience of your future directions and showcase company’s noteworthy products and services. There will be a time slot for companies to make their presentation in a room. The latter enables companies the opportunity to display its latest offerings of hardware, software, tools, services and books, through an exhibit booth. For further details please contact the publicity chair - secretariat@ihe-conf.org.

This is a blind peer-reviewed conference.

Important Dates:

- Submission Deadline (2nd call): 6 September 2010

- Notification to Authors (2nd call): 6 October 2010

- Final Camera-Ready Submission and Early Registration (1st call): Until 28 July 2010

- Late Registration (1st call): After 28 July 2010

- Conference: Perth, Australia, 29, 30 November and 1 December 2010

For more details: http://www.ihe-conf.org/

3rd International Conference on Teaching and Learning

About ICTL 2011:

INTI International University is organising a biennial International Conference on Teaching and Learning (ICTL 2011). This 3-day conference aims to provide a forum for educators, researchers, technologists and students to share their knowledge and expertise in teaching and learning; to stimulate high quality research work in teaching and learning so as to develop state-of-the-art educational technologies; and to promote intellectual discourse among the conference participants from the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Europe and Asia. Over 350 participants from overseas and local universities or higher education institutions are expected to attend the conference.

Conference Theme:

Towards 21st Century Education: Student – Student Collaboration

Conference Venue and Date:

November 14 - 16, 2011
PARKROYAL Penang Hotel
Penang, Malaysia

All researchers, educators and technologists around the world are invited to contribute papers in this conference. Papers, not published elsewhere, are invited in the following topics:

* Instructional Strategy
* Instructional Technology
* E-Learning
* Assessment and Evaluation
* Classroom Management

For details on conference topic: http://ictl.intimal.edu.my/html_topics.php

Important Dates:

Call for papers: June 1, 2010

Proposal Due: April 29, 2011

Authors Notified: May 31, 2011

Early Registration Deadline: August 31, 2011

Proceeding Files Deadline: August 15, 2011

For further details: http://ictl.intimal.edu.my/index.php

2nd INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE on BUSINESS and ECONOMIC RESEARCH- ICBER

2nd INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE on BUSINESS and ECONOMIC RESEARCH- ICBER



DATE: 14-15 March 2011

VENUE: Holiday Villa Beach Resort and Spa, Langkawi Kedah, Malaysia

ISBN PROCEEDING: 978-967-5705-01-4

Important Dates:

SUBMIT PAPER TO: icber@internationalconference.com.my

ABSTRACT SUBMISSION DEADLINE: 16 Feb 2011

NOTIFICATION OF ABSTRACT ACCEPTANCE: 30 Feb 2011

FULL PAPER SUBMISSION DEADLINE: 20 Feb 2011

FINAL PAPER DUE: 10 Feb 2011

Theoerical and empirical papers in all areas of Accounting, Banking, Ecomonics, Finance, Management and Marketing are invited for the above International Conference. Please refer to the Major Field of Research. All papers will undergo double blind peer review process and all accepted papers will be published in the Refereed Conference Proceedings with an ISBN. "Best Paper Winners" will be selected from a block papers in each track and winners will receive a cerificate and their papers will be considered to be published in the "Journal of International Conference on Business and Economics Research" subject to compliance to their guidelines and conditions.

SESSION CHAIR

Participants may serve as the Session Chair. If you are interested, please indicate your willingness in the Registration Form. A certificate will be issued to all Chairs acknowledging their role at the conference.

For details: http://www.internationalconference.com.my/icber/icber.htm

2011 2nd World Congress on Computer Science and Information Engineering (CSIE 2011)

2011 2nd World Congress on Computer Science and Information Engineering (CSIE 2011)
17-19 June 2011， Changchun, China

Call for Papers

CSIE 2011 intends to be a global forum for researchers and engineers to present and discuss recent advances and new techniques in computer science and information engineering. Topics of interests include, but are not limited to, data mining & data engineering, intelligent systems, software engineering, computer applications, communications & networking, computer hardware, VLSI, & embedded systems, multimedia & signal processing, computer control, robotics, and automation.

All papers in the CSIE 2011 conference proceedings will be indexed in Ei Compendex and ISTP, as well as included in the IEEE Xplore (The previous conference CSIE 2009 has already been indexed in Ei Compendex and included in the IEEE Xplore). IEEE Catalog Number: CFP1160F-PRT. ISBN: 978-1-4244-8361-7.

Changchun is the capital city of Jilin province, situated in the central section of China's northeast region. There are many natural attractions to entertain residents and visitors around Changchun. The grand Changbai Mountain renowned for its spectacular landscape, charming scenery, glamorous legends, as well as rich resources and products, has been praised as the first mountain in the northeast, outstanding as one of the China’s top-ten famous mountains. Other attractions in or around Changchun include Songhua lake (Songhuahu), Jingyue Lake (Jingyuetan), Changchun Movie Wonderland, Changchun Puppet Palace (Weihuanggong), Changchun World Sculpture Park, and Changchun World Landscape Park, etc.

Important Dates:

Paper Submission Deadline: 20 September 2010
Review Notification: 15 November 2010
Final Paper and Author Registration Deadline: 6 January 2011

Contact Information

If you have any inquiries, please email us at CSIE2011@cust.edu.cn

For details: http://world-research-institute.org/conferences/CSIE/2011

AAOU 2010 International Conference in Hanoi, Vietnam

The AAOU 2010 International Conference will be held in Hanoi, Vietnam from 26th to 28th October 2010. It is hosted by Hanoi Open University under the direction of the Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU)and Vietnam Ministry of Education and Training. The venue of the conference is Melia Hanoi Hotel – 44B Ly Thuong Kiet Street, Hanoi, Vietnam and the working language of the conference is English.



The theme of the conference is:

OPEN DISTANCE LEARNING TOWARDS BUILDING SUSTAINABLE GLOBAL LEARNING COMMUNITIES

and the sub-themes are:

1. Ideology and Philosophy
- Building people’s awareness of sustainable learning communities
- Creating sustainability and knowledge of the benefits of ODL through government support for distance learning
- Supporting Colleges/universities to serve as models of sustainable learning communities
- Discovering how sustainable learning communities form, develop and are maintained
- Sharing perspectives of building of sustainable learning communities through ODL

2. Partnership and Communication
- College/university partnership – mapping the ways for building sustainable learning communities
- Government/College/University partnership – creating sustainable partnership in enabling ODL providers to access government support as an alternative model to traditional face-to-face learning
- Developing links between community development and ODL.
- Creating open and multiple pathways/channels for communication through ODL to build sustainable learning communities.

3. Methodology and Technology
- Use of advanced technologies of e-learning to increase the effectiveness of building sustainable learning communities
- ODL technologies in enabling and connecting sustainable learning communities
- ODL technologies in education policies that can help building sustainable learning communities
- Use of advanced technologies to enhance student learning outcomes and achievements.
- Mobile technology support for building sustainable learning communities.

4. Sustainability, Access, Equity and Quality
- ODL quality assurance to build sustainable learning communities.
- ODL in places where access to education is limited at various levels.
- Use of ODL to improve access, equity and quality of sustainable learning communities
- Instructional materials access and support for its development to build sustainable learning communities.
- Best practices and conditions associated with effective ODL environment.

5. Opportunities and Challenges
- ODL to balance imbalances in our educational systems to support marginalized populations by traditional educational systems
- Challenges in the implementation of ODL toward building sustainable learning communities
- Future trends in ODL to adapt to new environments of sustainable learning communities.

Important Dates

- 15th June, 2010: Deadline for abstracts
- 1st July, 2010: Notification of acceptance of abstracts
- 31st July , 2010: Submission of full papers for publication
- 31st July, 2010: Early-bird registration deadline
- 15th September, 2010: Deadline for registration

Details: http://aaou2010.hou.edu.vn/

Global Learn Asia Pacific 2010 Conference

The Global Conference on Learning and Technology was held recently at the Park Royal Hotel & Holiday Inn Resort Penang from May 17 - 20, 2010.

Gary Marks, Executive Director of AACE, delivers his welcome speech

Prof. Zoraini (left) and Tan Sri Dr. Anuwar Ali during the keynote address

The four-day conference has attracted about 500 participants from 48 countries including host Malaysia. It was organized by the Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE) and hosted by Open University Malaysia, University Sains Malaysia and Wawasan Open University. It was officially opened by the Deputy Higher Education Minister YB. Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah.

Prof. Carmel McNaught from The Chinese University of Hong Kong, conducting a workshop on "Writing and Publishing Academic Papers for Conference and Journals".



Several distinguished keynote speakers invited to address this conference include James Taylor from University of Southern Queensland, Australia, Asha Kanwar from Commonwealth of Learning, Canada, Elliot Soloway from University of Michigan & Cathleen Norris from University of North Texas, USA and Prof. Emeritus Tan Sri Anuwar Ali from Open University Malaysia.