On the verge of a system transformation and the ecosystem of open education

Abstract

The field of education is currently undergoing significant upheaval, primarily due to the far-reaching impacts of COVID-19. This global pandemic has disrupted education for over 90% of the world’s children, marking the most extensive educational disruption in history (UNESCO, 2020). In response, education systems need to display proactive courage and take the lead in adapting to the evolving demands of professional life. This entails transforming learning into a more student-centered, interconnected, dynamic, inclusive, and collaborative process, fostering an environment where creativity can thrive. Learning materials must adapt to these shifts in teaching and learning approaches. The focal point of this chapter is to address the need for systemic change and to delve into the open education ecosystem. It explores emerging trends and prospects concerning evolving learning environments and scenarios, including online language assessment aspects. Notably, the role of learners as vital stakeholders is emphasized. An essential initiative discussed is the UNESCO Transforming Education Summit, a key effort launched by the United Nations to prioritize education on the global policy agenda. Its aim is to mobilize action, ambition, solidarity, and effective solutions to mitigate the learning losses induced by the pandemic and to lay the groundwork for an education transformation in our rapidly changing world. The chapter also aligns with the 2019 UNESCO recommendation on open educational resources and presents perspectives from the Open Education Consortium and the International Council for Open and Distance Education.