Open University as assessed by students enrolled in it

• Timo Asikainen Vapaan Sivistystoiminnan Liitto ry

DOI: https://doi.org/10.33336/aik.96583

Abstract

With the views held by students as the basis, the article looks into the functionality of the Open University as system of study, from the aspect of vocational, degree-oriented, and avocational studies. In addition, it looks at the Open University’s role as an institution offering general education, at the effect of the system of study on the realization of educational and social equality, and at the regional significance of the Open University. The results indicate that degree-studies are being used more and more as vocational further education. The problem is that studies are often seen as representing a mere formal vocational further qualification. Ali in all, it is assumed that the Open University is fairly well able to fulfil the expectations of students regarding the system of study.