OU academic honoured for exceptional research in digital education

An Open University (OU) academic has been awarded for outstanding and sustained contributions to the field of digital education.

Professor Denise Whitelock, Director of the OU’s Institute of Educational Technology (IET), has been awarded the European Distance and E-Learning Network (EDEN) Senior Fellowship.

The award is one of the highest honours conferred by EDEN Digital Learning Europe, It celebrates Professor Whitelock’s exceptional research and dedicated service to the EDEN community over many years and her contributions which have significantly shaped the field both in the UK and across Europe.

According to EDEN, Professor Whitelock’s commitment to advancing educational technologies and her invaluable support of EDEN’s mission make this accolade especially meaningful.

It also aligns well with Professor Whitelock’s OU role which celebrates excellence in online and open learning across Europe, acknowledging thought leadership, innovation, and in shaping educational policy and practice.

Commenting on the significance of this award, Professor Whitelock said: “I’m honoured to be named an EDEN Senior Fellow - recognition of my commitment to advancing inclusive digital learning and pioneering the thoughtful use of AI in education.”

Professor Kevin Shakesheff, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Research & Innovation at the OU, added: “The Open University is delighted to see this further recognition of the outstanding contribution made by Denise in educational technology.”