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Mark Nichols
Executive Director @Open Polytechnic of New Zealand
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WORK HISTORY
Executive Director @Open Polytechnic of New Zealand
Lower Hutt, NZ
I am Executive Director of Learning Design and Development, responsible for leading a team of over 100 highly talented kaimahi in the creation and maintenance of Open Polytechnic courseware. The role draws on a large capital budget. The team has grown significantly since 2020, developing Aotearoa-centric, narrative-based online vocational courseware to an international standard. We propose, design, and build excellent materials that promote solid and inclusive ako. Our vision: Inspired solutions for inclusive learning.
EDUCATION
The Open University
MAODE, Open and distance education
The University of Waikato
Bachelor of Management Studies , Strategic Management, Marketing, Management
University of Otago
PhD, Distance education; formation; online learning
SKILLS
ABOUT MARK NICHOLS
EDUCATION SENIOR EXECUTIVE with 25 years’ experience in higher education and international recognition as a leader in online, open, distance and flexible learning. Known as a capable team leader, manager, educator, innovator, researcher, and authority in online/digital and open/distance education. President of ICDE (the International Council for Open and Distance Education) as of 2024. My professional \'Why\': Education must be available, inclusive, scalable, and sustainable. Let\'s design it that way. I believe in universal principles and general approaches, tailored to local conditions through thoughtful solutions. My values of education are inspired by Professor Sir Mason Durie, in that it is a process of:* Whakapiri - engagement.* Whakamārama - enlightenment.* Whakamana - empowerment.PhD 2014; PFHEA 2017. In 2020 I started a three-year term as a member of the ICDE Executive Committee and was appointed President in 2024. I am a member of the SUNZ Board. I also maintain the Leaders & Legends of Online Learning podcast: https://onlinelearninglegends.com/. As of 2023 I am a Commonwealth of Learning Chair: my work focussing on models for blended learning. Other current projects include a 2026 update of Sir John Daniel\'s \"Mega-universities\" and co-hosting the 2025 ICDE World Conference, being held 10 to 13 November in Wellington, New Zealand. My goals remain unchanged since 1995: Personal: To enjoy a rich life, to flourish in my chosen pursuits and to be known as a reliable, affirming, innovative and empowering person. To live a life inspired by Jesus Christ and the power of his resurrection, not a judgemental, closed or frustrated life, but a vibrant, open and loving one.Professional: Serving strategically in education-related roles that require innovation based on sound research. Leading and being a part of a team of dynamic professionals who see education as a public good, and who are dedicated to transformational learning based on rich scholarship. Academic: To continuously broaden my perspectives in such a way that my practice is deepened, and my opinions useful to others at a variety of levels. ORCID: (note record is incomplete, missing several important publications; see below for up to date list).
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