The University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) Research Agenda focuses on fostering innovative and inclusive research that addresses pressing societal challenges, leverages emerging technologies, and promotes sustainable development. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and community engagement, UPOU aims to produce research that advances knowledge, informs policy, and enriches the lives of diverse stakeholders locally and globally.

It can contribute to the advancement of education, technology, and innovative pedagogical practices through the conduct of quality research in priority areas in ODeL as proposed by the Center for Open and Digital Teaching and Learning (CODTL). ODL Research at UPOU encompasses, but are not limited to the following
areas:

  • Innovative Pedagogies in the 4IR including: Immersive Open Pedagogies, AI-based Pedagogies in ODL, and Learning and Academic Analytics in ODL
  • Contextualizing ODL in the CODTL/UPOU, Philippines, ASEAN, Disciplines
  • ODL Administration and Policies – Quality Assurance, Quality Management, and Lifelong Learning
  • DEAL (Digital Education and Accessible Learning)

Theme: eDukasyOn: Exploring Distance Learning Using Knowledge, Adaptability, Systems, and Online Networks

It aims to understand, analyze, and anticipate possible future developments. It involves the systematic exploration of alternative futures to inform decision-making, policy development, research innovation and creative work, and public engagement. Futures research at UPOU encompasses, but are not limited to the following areas:

  • Emerging Technologies
  • Environmental Sustainability
  • Demographic Shift
  • Global Governance
  • Economic Transformation
  • Health and Well-being
  • Cultural and Social Dynamics
  • Education and Skills Development
  • Security and Conflict
  • Ethics and Values
  • Cross Disciplinary Collaboration
  • Digital Transformation
  • Application of Research towards advancements of communities

Theme: SULONG – Shaping Unprecedented Landscapes by Optimizing New Goals

It can provide a framework for addressing global challenges and contributing to sustainable development. The SDGs, adopted by the United Nations, encompass a wide range of interconnected social, economic, and environmental goals. Sustainable Development Goals Research at UPOU encompasses, but are not limited to the following areas:

  • SDG Alignment, Interdisciplinary Research, Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), Open and Distance Learning for Inclusivity (SDG 4,10), Climate Action (SDG 13), Health and Well-being (SDG 3), Gender Equality (SDG 5), Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17), Data and Technology for Development Community Engagement and Outreach, Ethics and Social Responsibility Capacity Building (SDG 4)
  • Community Health Education and Well-being, Climate Education and Justice, Community Improvement through Land Management, Sustainable Livelihood Innovations and Digitally-transformed Enterprise

Theme: LIKAS: Leading Initiatives for Knowledge Advancement in Sustainability

It is crucial for fostering inclusivity, understanding gender dynamics, and contributing to the advancement of gender equality. Gender-Focused Research at UPOU encompasses, but are not limited to the following areas:

  • Gender Mainstreaming
  •  Gender in Curriculum and Learning Materials
  • Women’s Empowerment in Education (SDG 4)
  • Gender Digital Divide
  • Work-Life Balance and Flexible Learning
  •  Gender and Technology
  • Violence Against Women and Harassment (SDG 5)
  • Gender in STEM Education and Careers: Gender and Leadership
  • Gender-Responsive Research Methods
  • Community Engagement and Gender Inclusivity
  • Capacity Building on Gender Sensitivity
  • Gender and Environmental Sustainability
  • Youth and Children Empowerment
  • Women and Elderly Empowerment and Transformation

Theme: KASARIAN : Knowledge Advancement for Social Advocacy on Research Inclusivity and Equality