# National Open University

> university in Taiwan

**Wikidata**: [Q6135045](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6135045)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Open_University)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/national-open-university

## Summary
The National Open University (NOU) is a public university in Taiwan established in 1986, specializing in distance education to provide accessible higher education opportunities. It operates primarily through open and flexible learning systems, catering to non-traditional students. Headquartered in Taipei, it is recognized for its role in promoting lifelong learning and academic inclusivity.

## Key Facts
- Founded in **1986** as a national institution in Taiwan.
- Focuses on **distance education**, offering flexible learning programs for diverse student populations.
- Headquartered in **Taipei**, with coordinates **25.0882° N, 121.468° E**.
- Member of **Open Education Global** and the **International Council for Open and Distance Education (ICDE)**.
- Official website: **http://www.nou.edu.tw/** (in Standard Taiwanese Mandarin).
- Taiwan school code: **0A01**.
- Aliases: **NOU** (English) and **空大** (Chinese).
- Recognized for its **non-traditional academic structure**, emphasizing accessibility for working professionals and lifelong learners.

## FAQs
### Q: When was the National Open University founded?
A: The National Open University was established in **1986** to address the need for accessible higher education in Taiwan.

### Q: What type of education does the National Open University provide?
A: It specializes in **distance education**, offering flexible programs for students who may not attend traditional on-campus institutions.

### Q: Is the National Open University part of any international organizations?
A: Yes, it is a member of **Open Education Global** and the **International Council for Open and Distance Education (ICDE)**, underscoring its commitment to global standards in open education.

## Why It Matters
The National Open University plays a critical role in democratizing access to higher education in Taiwan, particularly for working adults, remote populations, and those balancing other life commitments. As a pioneer in open and distance learning, it addresses educational disparities by providing flexible, affordable pathways to academic credentials. Its membership in international organizations like ICDE and Open Education Global highlights its alignment with global best practices in distance education. By leveraging technology and adaptable learning models, the university supports Taiwan’s broader goals of fostering a skilled, lifelong-learning society, contributing to both individual advancement and national development.

## Notable For
- First open university in Taiwan dedicated to distance education.
- Pioneered flexible learning systems for non-traditional students, including broadcast media and online platforms.
- Active member of international open education networks, reinforcing its global relevance.
- Serves a diverse student body, including working professionals and lifelong learners, through accessible enrollment policies.

## Body
### Founding and History
- Established in **1986** under Taiwan’s Ministry of Education to expand higher education access beyond traditional university settings.
- Initially focused on radio and television-based instruction, evolving to incorporate digital platforms.

### Educational Focus
- Offers undergraduate, graduate, and continuing education programs through distance learning methodologies.
- Emphasizes **lifelong learning**, with curricula designed for working adults and non-traditional students.
- Utilizes a combination of online courses, printed materials, and periodic on-campus sessions.

### Membership and Accreditations
- Member of **Open Education Global** (as of 2023) and **ICDE** (as of 2024), reflecting adherence to international open education standards.
- Recognized by Taiwan’s educational authorities, with the school code **0A01** for administrative and accreditation purposes.

### Infrastructure and Reach
- Headquartered in **Taipei**, with operational reach across Taiwan through decentralized learning centers and digital infrastructure.
- Coordinates: **25.0882° N, 121.468° E** (grid ID: **grid.445046.7**).
- Maintains a public Facebook presence (**lovenou**) for community engagement and outreach.

## References

1. Open ISNI for Organizations
2. [Source](https://web.archive.org/web/20230322221352/https://www.oeglobal.org/about-us/members-list/)
3. [Source](https://web.archive.org/web/20240407191925/https://www.icde.org/members-community/)
4. [Source](http://www.nou.edu.tw/)
5. GRID Release 2016-05-31
6. Aligned ISNI and Ringgold identifiers for institutions
7. [Source](https://stats.moe.gov.tw/files/school/111/u2_new.ods)