Managing Innovation in Teaching in ODDE

Abstract

Innovation is the lifeblood of open, distance and digital education (ODDE), but it has often proved difficult for ODDE institutions to continue to innovate in response to a changing world outside. Innovation though is not “magic” or serendipitous. There are well-established methods by which innovation can be nurtured and managed in ODDE. Following a literature review of innovation in ODDE, the chapter discusses common myths regarding innovation, several barriers to change in ODDE institutions, then offers five strategies to support innovation. A case study is provided that illustrates a number of factors that support sustained innovation in ODDE, and the chapter ends by suggesting that innovation is not an end in itself but is best managed by focusing on the major, long-term goals of ODDE, and the main challenges that ODDE institutions face. In particular, ODDE institutions need to remain innovative to meet increasing competition from the conventional higher education institutions and above all from large, digital technology companies.