The Demand and Supply Imbalances in Blended Learning at the Arab Open University–Kuwait

Abstract

There is a growing demand for higher education in Kuwait in all the academic institutions. However, the blended learning system of education enjoys a greater appeal and the demand for it has been growing at a fast rate. In the meantime, the potential of the supply is lagging behind in meeting this growing demand. The aim of this paper is to provide an analysis of the factors that influence the demand for and the supply of higher education at the AOU. STEEP Analysis will be conducted whereby the regional dynamics that affect demand and supply will be discussed. Finally, some figures, strategies and case studies to resolve the imbalance problem will be provided and trends in blended learning at the AOU will be reviewed followed by a summary of trends in factors that affect the demand and supply. The final section is consecrated to findings and recommendations for future perspectives that inform policymakers to resolve supply and demand imbalances.