The 39th Annual Conference of the Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU) will be hosted by the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) – Open University System in Manila from 22–24 October 2026. Centered on the theme, “Responding to Global Challenges Towards a Resilient and Future-Ready Open Distance and e-Learning,” this event serves as a premier venue for researchers, educators, practitioners, and policymakers across Asia to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and scholarly exchange.

The conference invites submissions of original research papers, case studies, and innovative practices that propose transformative, technology-enabled, and inclusive solutions for the field. Prospective contributors are encouraged to align their work with key focus areas, including digital transformation and emerging technologies for resilient ODeL, strategies for inclusive and equitable access, quality assurance frameworks, and pedagogical innovations designed to enhance learner success.

Research 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