On July 24 2025  ,The School of Graduate Studies (SPS), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) was honoured to host a virtual benchmarking visit from the Institute of Continuing Education and Professional Studies (iCEPS), Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) to exchange insights and experiences surrounding the implementation of Open and Distance Learning (ODL) at UTM. 

Held for the first time via Google Meet, this online engagement marks a significant step towards fostering inter-institutional collaboration in the evolving landscape of flexible education. The visit was centred around the theme of knowledge sharing and experience exchange, particularly on key aspects such as ODL governance, course offerings, tuition fee structuring, digital learning innovations, and the operational challenges in delivering high-quality online ODL programmes. 

Throughout the session, SPS shared its journey, approaches, and strategic considerations in developing a robust ODL ecosystem—from curriculum development and quality assurance to the integration of technology and learner support systems. The discussion also delved into how UTM leverages data-driven planning and cross-departmental collaboration to ensure the sustainability and quality of its ODL programmes. 

On June 4 2025  ,The School of Graduate Studies (SPS), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) was honoured to receive a visit from Centre for Shaping Advanced & Professional Education (UKMShape), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) for a benchmarking session centred on the implementation of Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programmes at UTM.

The visit which was held on 4 June 2025, provided a meaningful platform for exchanging ideas and practices in ODL management. Discussions during the session covered a wide range of topics, beginning with UTM’s strategic approach in planning and delivering its ODL programmes. The delegation from UKMShape explored how UTM structures its student intake, assessment methods, and academic scheduling, as well as how teaching and learning are supported through appropriate facilities and digital tools.

Particular interest was given to the development of Self-Instructional Materials (SIM), which play a key role in enabling independent learning for ODL students. SPS also shared how UTM nurtures professional development among academic, administrative, and technical staff to ensure effective programme delivery. This includes training initiatives related to SIM design and familiarisation with the university’s learning management system (LMS).

On February 24 2025  , The School of Graduate Studies (SPS), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) was pleased to host a benchmarking visit from Pusat Pembangunan Akademik (PPA), Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI), in a collaborative effort to explore best practices in managing Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programmes.

The visit, held on 24 February 2025, brought together a delegation of four representatives from PPA UPSI with the main objective of gaining a deeper understanding of how UTM implements and oversees its ODL programmes. Discussions focused on several key areas, including the end-to-end management of ODL programmes as a one-stop centre—from programme development and student enrolment to graduation—as well as the development of Self-Instructional Materials (SIM) and procedures involved in the Mesyuarat Saringan Awal (MSA) prior to programme approval.

On February 6 2025  , The School of Graduate Studies (SPS), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) had the honour of hosting a benchmarking visit from UMT Life (ULC), Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), in a continued spirit of academic exchange and collaboration. This marks the second visit by UMT, following an earlier engagement on 24 November 2024.

A delegation of 12 representatives from UMT Life (ULC) participated in the visit, which focused on gaining deeper insights into the development, delivery, and governance of Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programmes at UTM. The visit provided a valuable platform for in-depth discussions on strategic planning, curriculum design, digital delivery platforms, and quality assurance mechanisms embedded within UTM’s ODL ecosystem.

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On December 15 2024 , The School of Graduate Studies (SPS), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) recently welcomed a delegation from Bahagian Kurikulum (BK), Jabatan Pendidikan Politeknik dan Kolej Komuniti (JPPK), accompanied by representatives from Politeknik METrO Johor Bahru, for a benchmarking visit focused on the implementation of Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programmes at UTM.

The visit, held on 15 December 2024, was attended by 13 delegates who sought to gain practical insights into the holistic management of ODL programmes at UTM. The discussion sessions and engagements throughout the visit centred on critical areas including student intake mechanisms, academic scheduling, assessment methods, learning infrastructure, and digital teaching tools – all of which are pivotal to the successful delivery of ODL.

SPS was honoured to host the delegation and to share its journey, strategies, and lessons learned in developing a sustainable and flexible ODL ecosystem. The visit served not only as a platform for knowledge exchange but also as a step towards strengthening inter-institutional collaboration in enhancing accessible education through digital means.

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On November 24 2024 , The School of Graduate Studies (SPS), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) had the honour of receiving a benchmarking visit from Pusat Pembangunan dan Pengurusan Akademik (PPPA), Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT). The visit brought together a delegation of 16 representatives from UMT with the primary objective of engaging in a knowledge-sharing session focused on the development, management, and implementation of Open and Distance Learning (ODL) at UTM.

Throughout the session, SPS UTM shared its practical experience in overseeing the lifecycle of ODL programmes—from proposal development, academic governance, and approval processes to the design of learning experiences, quality assurance mechanisms, and student support systems. The exchange provided valuable insights into UTM’s strategic approaches in navigating the challenges and opportunities in flexible, technology-enhanced graduate education.

In addition to their engagement with SPS, the UMT delegates also visited UTM Center for Advancement in Digital and Flexible Learning (UTM CDex) to learn about the development and management of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOC), and one of UTM’s research centre, Media and Game Innovation Centre of Excellence (MaGICX), which focuses on Immersive Learning and Virtual Lab Development.

On October 23 2024 , The School of Graduate Studies (SPS), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) had the honour of hosting a delegation from Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) for a benchmarking visit focused on the implementation and management of postgraduate Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and Offshore (Pesisir) programs at UTM.

The visit, held on 23 October 2024, brought together 22 delegates from UTHM representing key departments including Pusat Pembelajaran Berterusan dan APEL, Pusat Pengajian Siswazah, and Pusat Pembangunan dan Kecemerlangan Akademik. The main objective of this engagement was to gain in-depth insight into the best practices and operational strategies applied at UTM, with a view to strengthening similar initiatives within UTHM.

During the visit, SPS shared a comprehensive overview of the ODL ecosystems at UTM. This included highlights on program development, quality assurance processes, accreditation workflows, and student support systems. The delegates were also introduced to the ODLSystem – UTM’s dedicated online learning platform – and its various functionalities which support effective course delivery, learning material management, and assessment tracking.

On May 12 2024 , The School of Graduate Studies (SPS), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), was honoured to receive a benchmarking visit from Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) on 12 May 2024. The visit was part of UMPSA’s efforts to gain insights into the best practices in managing Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programs at UTM.

The delegation from UMPSA comprised representatives from the Faculty of Fakulti Teknologi kejuruteraan Kimia dan Proses (FTKKP) (8 delegates) and the Pusat Sains Matematik (PSM)(5 delegates). The main objective of the visit was to explore UTM’s approach to ODL program management, including aspects of program planning, accreditation processes, and the integration of online systems that support continuous learning and academic engagement.

During the session, SPS shared comprehensive insights into the governance structure, quality assurance mechanisms, and digital platforms to facilitate flexible learning for postgraduate students. SPS also presented the UTM ODL ecosystem, which supports the entire management cycle of ODL programs at the university, from program development and academic delivery to student support and quality monitoring.

On July 30, 2023, the Student Recruitment & Admission Section (SRADs) organized a UTM Postgraduate Open Day 2023. The event aimed to promote the university’s academic programs, attracting enthusiastic participation from both prospective students and faculty members.

SPS was invited to participate in the event to highlight the diverse range of Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programs available to students. All faculties also contributed to the event, giving valuable insights and a comprehensive overview of the academic offerings.

One of the main advantages for visitors attending the physical open day was the opportunity to interact directly with university representatives. Prospective students could engage in face-to-face discussions, seek clarifications on academic programs, and gain personalized guidance in selecting the most suitable courses for their academic and career aspirations.

The School of Graduate Studies (SPS) organized a Self-Instructional Material (SIM) Development Course for lecturers involved in teaching Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programs. The course took place on July 4, 2023, in collaboration with the Centre for Talent and Leadership Development (CTLD).

A total of 40 lecturers participated in the course, representing the Faculty of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Computing, and Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities. Dr. Norah Binti Md. Noor, the Associate Chair of the SPS, delivered the course, which was held in Seminar Room, Level 3, SPS at UTM Johor Bahru.

The purpose of the course was to provide all ODL program lecturers with essential knowledge about self-instructional material development. The strategies covered during the course included Tell & Test, Tutorial, Reflective Action Guide, and a mix of these strategies. Additionally, participants learned about various assessment methods and online tools that can enhance the effectiveness of SIM. The aim was to improve the preparation of necessary teaching materials, ensuring the successful execution of the ODL program.

The course concluded at 4.30 pm and is scheduled to be conducted at UTM Kuala Lumpur in September 2023.

On May 10, 2023, the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) Group participated in the Anugerah Inovasi Perkhidmatan (AIP) 2023, which took place at the Meeting Room, Level 4, Building T03, Pusat Pengurusan Makmal Universiti (PPMU), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Johor Bahru.

The ODL Group consists of staff members from two responsible departments, namely the School of Graduate Studies (SPS) and UTM Digital. The presented project was the ODLSystem for Open and Distance Learning (ODL UTM). ODLSystem is a Learning Management System (LMS), which serves as a platform supporting the management and facilitation of the learning process in the context of open and distance learning (ODL) for the needs of students and lecturers in UTM. The ODLSystem enables students to access online learning materials, assignments, exams, and other learning activities through the platform. Lecturers, on the other hand, can upload learning materials, facilitate online discussions, provide feedback to students, and conduct assessments through the system.

The project presentation was delivered by Dr. Norah Binti Md. Noor, the group leader, cum the Associate Chair of School of Graduate Studies (SPS).

AIP 2023 is an annual program organized by Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) to recognize innovative initiatives by all departments in UTM that have significantly contributed to improving service quality and positively impacting the university community.

Through the AIP, UTM aims to encourage and promote a culture of innovation in services among staffs. The goal is to foster the creation and utilization of new ideas that can enhance work processes, improve efficiency, and bring benefits to all stakeholders involved.

Planning to pursue a Master of Science in Engineering Education for the March 2023 intake?
Or intent to get a Master of Science in Business Intelligence & Analytics?
Well, good news!

School of Graduate Studies, UTM is now inviting all of you to join us in Virtual Program Preview on January 25, 2023, at 10 am.
All are invited to join at: https://bit.ly/BPPK_SPS. (Cisco Webex)

Don’t forget to share this good news as said by Howard Schultz, “Success is best when it’s shared.”

JOHOR BAHRU, 25 Nov. – Seramai 44 orang graduan tempatan dan luar negara telah diraikan sebagai graduan sulung program pengajian Sarjana iaitu Sarjana Pendidikan (Teknologi Pendidikan) secara mod Terbuka & Jarak Jauh (ODL).

Program ini ditawarkan oleh Sekolah Pendidikan, Fakulti Sains Sosial dan Kemanusiaan. Para graduan telah  diraikan dalam Majlis Konvokesyen Universiti Teknologi Malaysia-66 (MK66) yang berlangsung dari 21 hingga 25 November 2022.

Inisiatif pembangunan program pengajian secara sepenuhnya dalam talian atau ODL di UTM ini sebenarnya telah bermula sejak tahun 2019 dan pengambilan kumpulan pertama atau kohort pertama telah bermula sejak bulan Februari 2020, sebelum pandemik Covid-19 melanda negara lagi.

Penawaran program secara ODL ini mengambil kira akan keperluan pelajar pada masa kini, khususnya kepada pelajar yang bekerja, yang memerlukan pendekatan pembelajaran yang fleksibel, kondusif dan berpusatkan pelajar. Sehingga kini pengambilan pelajar bagi program ini telah melebihi 140 pelajar dari kohort 1 sehingga kohort 6.

Lebih membanggakan, pada MK66 ini seramai empat orang graduan dari kohort pertama dan kedua telah berjaya merangkul Anugerah Pascasiswazah Terbaik dan salah seorang daripada mereka iaitu Nur Farhana binti Mustahidin turut dinobatkan sebagai penerima Anugerah Pro-Canselor atas pencapaian cemerlang beliau dalam bidang akademik.

Di samping itu, dua orang graduan dari program ini juga telah meraih Best Master Project Award.  Kejayaan-kejayaan ini sekaligus membuktikan bahawa program ODL ini juga mampu melahirkan graduan yang berkualiti dan berdaya saing.

Selain itu, Program ODL Sarjana Pendidikan (Teknologi Pendidikan) ini juga telah menerima akreditasi penuh dari MQA setelah dua tahun ia diperkenalkan. Program ini turut menjadi Johan dalam  Anugerah Khas YB Menteri Pengajian Tinggi: Rekabentuk Kurikulum Dan Penyampaian Inovatif Tahun 2022 (AKRI) bagi kategori Program Pengajian Inovatif.

Dalam pada itu, graduan turut diraikan dalam satu majlis yang dianjurkan khas bagi memberi peluang graduan bertemu dengan rakan-rakan seperjuangan mahupun dengan pensyarah-pensyarah UTM.  Menurut Dr Nurul Farhana Jumaat yang merupakan penyelaras program ini, “Majlis ini sebenarnya istimewa kerana para graduan tidak pernah bersua muka dengan rakan sekelas mahupun dengan pensyarah sendiri kerana sepanjang tempoh pengajian, pembelajaran mereka adalah 100% dalam talian, ini bermakna kami di sini adalah bertemu untuk kali pertama,” kata Dr Farhana  setelah selesai majlis penghargaan semalam.

“Kami di Sekolah Pendidikan khususnya, berharap agar lebih ramai lagi di luar sana dapat menyertai program ODL ini di masa akan datang kerana kami akan menawarkan beberapa lagi Program ODL ini seperti Sarjana Pendidikan Matematik, Sarjana Pendidikan Fizik dan Sarjana Pendidikan Teknik dan Vokasional bermula tahun hadapan,” kata Dr Farhana mengakhiri perbualan.

JOHOR BAHRU, 24 Nov. – Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) sekali lagi merakamkan pencapaian yang membanggakan kerana telah berjaya melahirkan seramai 101 orang graduan sulung menerusi Program Pembelajaran Terbuka dan Jarak Jauh (ODL) yang julung kalinya diraikan dalam Majlis Konvokesyen UTM ke-66 (MK66).

Kesemua graduan ODL tersebut adalah  44 orang graduan daripada program Sarjana Pendidikan (Teknologi Pendidikan), 8 orang graduan daripada Sarjana Kejuruteraan Forensik dan 49 orang graduan daripada program Sarjana Pentadbiran Perniagaan (MBA).

Program ODL mula ditawarkan di UTM bermula dari Sem 2 Sesi 2019/2020 dengan bilangan pelajar seramai 31 orang. Sejak ia mula ditawarkan, berlaku peningkatan dari segi bilangan pelajar yang mendaftar untuk ketiga-tiga program ODL tersebut.