Polytechnic University of the Philippines

PUP Hosts Conference of AAOU

Angelo Acedera, Press Release, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) – Open University System (OUS) will host the 39th Annual Conference of the Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU) on October 22-24, 2026.

The conference carries the theme "Responding to Global Challenges Towards a Resilient and Future-Ready Open Distance and e-Learning.” It aims to provide a venue for researchers, educators, practitioners, institutional leaders, and policymakers across Asia to promote interdisciplinary collaboration and scholarly exchange.

The conference invites the submission of original research papers, case studies, and innovative practices based on the following sub-themes:

Sub-theme 1: Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Learning Technologies

AI in teaching, learning, and assessment
Generative AI in instructional design and content creation
Learning analytics for student performance and predictive modeling
Automation in learner support and administration
Ethical implications of AI in education

Sub-theme 2: Immersive, Flexible, and Next-Generation Learning Environments

Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and immersive learning
Flexible and blended learning models
Cloud-based Learning Management Systems (LMS)
Interoperability of digital platforms and tools
Mobile and ubiquitous learning environments

Sub-theme 3: Equity, Accessibility, and Digital Inclusion

Addressing the digital divide and connectivity challenges
Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
Accessibility for learners with disabilities
Gender and socio-economic inclusion in ODeL
Localization and multilingual content development

Sub-theme 4: Learner Support, Engagement, and Well-being

Student engagement and motivation in online learning
Retention strategies and learner success models
Academic, technical, and psychosocial support systems
Community-based and low-bandwidth learning approaches
Mental health and well-being in distance education

Sub-theme 5: Quality Assurance, Assessment, and Credentialing

Quality assurance frameworks in ODeL
Accreditation and standards for online education
Assessment integrity and alternative assessment strategies
Online proctoring technologies and issues
Micro-credentials, digital badges, and lifelong learning pathways

Sub-theme 6: Institutional Resilience, Policy, and Governance

Institutional readiness and crisis-responsive education systems
Policy development for digital and distance learning
Cybersecurity and data privacy in education
Strategic leadership and management in ODeL
Sustainable models for open and distance education systems

Registration

All participants and paper presenters are requested to register through the official registration form:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc92lyhNIHXcXeoso8u6HEV8xU6RXdZeAgHpUVtzc-ZLZiFOw/viewform

For Inquiries

For further information and assistance, please contact the AAOU 2026 Conference Secretariat of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines Open University System through:

Email: aaou2026@pup.edu.ph