2025-07-31
We are thrilled to announce the publication of Volume 29, Issue 1 of the Journal of Open, Flexible and Distance Learning (JOFDL), a landmark issue that coincides with our 30th anniversary. This collection of scholarly contributions offers a compelling look at the dynamic and often challenging landscape of contemporary education, providing crucial insights for the evolving world of online and flexible learning. As noted in the editorial for this issue, "Navigating the AI Frontiers in Academic Publishing: Responding with Openness" (Atkinson, 2025), this anniversary year is a time for both celebration and reflection. This reflection is happening in the context of artificial intelligence and its impact on scholarly publication. We have chosen to respond with increased openness, moving towards CC-BY licencing, in line with Diamond Open Access guidelines, and we are implementing Crossmark for version verification.
This issue collectively illuminates two significant, interconnected themes vital for the future of education: systemic adaptation and resilience in open, flexible and distance learning (OFDL) and the continuous reimagining of the educational experience towards learner-centric, flexible, and purpose-driven approaches. The COVID-19 pandemic continues to underscore the necessity of an adaptable education system, making integrated distance and classroom learning an ongoing focus for educators in this AI-enabled digital age.