On 29 August 2024, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) organized a workshop on “Technology to Enhance Learning Potential and Develop Learning towards an Study Plan A2 for Students with Disabilities.” The event was opened by Asst. Prof. Dr. Khajornsak Sitthi, Director of Office of Educational Services, at the STOU’s Computer Room 2, with 40 participants, including self-reliant disabled students and their caregivers.
STOU implemented A2 and A3 as additional options for undergraduate students in the past 2-3 years. It has been found that the number of students registering for courses under Study Plan A2 or A3 has significantly increased. This is because these two study plans have a scoring system with up to 40% of complementary classes and collaborative learning activity.
The Counseling Section has been promoting the enhancement of knowledge and skills of using online information technology among students with disabilities and their caregivers to increase their chances of graduation, similar to other students who have chosen Study Plan A2 and A3.
This workshop helped enhancing participants’ knowledge, skills, and ability to use various tools
and equipment, such as smartphones, computers, laptops, and operating systems. These are essential tools for accessing online supplementary lessons via Microsoft Teams, online learning materials, and submitting assignments through the e-Learning system, a crucial component
of the university’s Study Plan A2.
STOU has the highest number of disability students among the universities in Thailand through the STOU Distance Learning System, which is not confined to traditional classrooms. STOU registers almost 500 disability students in each academic year, but only 20 – 30 are able to graduate. STOU operates Disabilities Support Services (DSS Center) to support disability people and also those interested in studying with STOU.