The state of Penang is an example of successful transformation in Asia based on strengthening
the rule of law. Open and Distance Learning (ODL) is an important vehicle for the education that
can underpin this process by expanding the freedoms that people can enjoy. Using technology
can not only cut costs but also enhance the quality of education and therefore yield important
benefits. The development of eLearning has encouraged many conventional universities to
offer ODL but research in North America suggests that few are doing it very well. Private forprofit providers are more successful. Research also shows that the notion of a divide in
attitudes to eLearning between young ‘digital natives’ and older students is a myth.
Technology-mediated learning encourages all students to engage more deeply with their work.
Finally, the Open Educational Resource University is described as a potentially radical
transformation in higher education. (Author's abstract)