TIDE – Transformation by Innovation in Distance Education

Transformation by Innovation in Distance Education (TIDE) aimed to improve the quality of higher education in Myanmar at a critical time in the country’s development. 

There is an increasing demand for skilled graduates to meet new employment needs, particularly in relation to the environmental management of Myanmar’s natural resources to ensure sustainability over years of rapid development.

TIDE brought together universities in the UK and Myanmar to improve the quality of distance learning to result in more employable graduates.

The TIDE project, funded by the UK Government, was implemented by The Open University (lead) with the University of Yangon, Yangon University of Distance Education, Yadanabon University, Irrawaddy Policy Exchange, University of Oxford and the University of Manchester.

TIDE focused on enabling educators to deliver improved learning outcomes for students, with a particular subject focus on education for the environment and sustainable development. The project also supported the development and use of the growing information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure in Myanmar’s higher education sector through offering training on online education platforms and facilitating online courses designed to enhance digital literacy. An emphasis on the use of open educational resources (OERs) and associated open educational practices for teaching and learning was one of the most important aspects of TIDE.

TIDE Publications

The reports linked below have been produced as a result of workshops and consultations with Myanmar Stakeholders. The TIDE Scoping report reviews options for strengthening the distance education system and concludes with a recommendation to establish a Myanmar National Open University. The TIDE Digital Strategy report sets out six strategic objectives for strengthening ICT infrastructure and the use of digital systems and tools to strengthen distance education whilst also highlighting the need to develop digital capabilities among staff and students.

Both reports are designed to inform high-level decision-makers and be valuable inputs for policy-related discussions.  They are available in both English and Myanmar language, and executive summary versions are also provided.

• Gregson, J. Pitt, R. & Seal T. (2020) TIDE Digital Strategy Report (English Version), The Open University & TIDE Digital Strategy Report (Translated Version).
• Gregson, J. & Fawssett, S. (2020) TIDE Scoping Report: Future Distance Education related HE Sector Strategy, The Open University & TIDE Scoping Report (Translated Version).