Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), through its Distance Education Staff Development Academy, recently organized a workshop to prepare faculty members for accreditation under the Professional Standards Framework 2023 (PSF 2023). This internationally recognized framework is set by Advance HE, a leading organization in the United Kingdom.
The workshop, held from 2-4 July 2025, at STOU Headquarters in Nonthaburi, aimed to continuously enhance the quality, standards, and capabilities of STOU’s personnel in teaching and learning support. This initiative aligns with the university’s vision of becoming a globally recognized leader in distance education.
Acting Vice-President for Academic Services, Arts and Culture Preservation, and International Affairs
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gan Chanyawudhiwan, Acting Vice-President for Academic Services, Arts and Culture Preservation, and International Affairs, presided over the opening ceremony. The training featured two distinguished speakers: Prof. Emeritus Dr. Boontip Siritarungsri, Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA) and Chair of the Accreditation Committee for Teaching and Learning Support in Distance Education, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Issra Pramoolsook, SFHEA, an expert from Suranaree University of Technology. Both shared their knowledge and experience with over 60 participating faculty members.
This training session is a key part of STOU’s policy to promote and develop the knowledge and skills of its staff, particularly in teaching and learning support. The university has a strong track record in this area, with 54 faculty members and academic support staff having previously received accreditation under Advance HE’s PSF 2011 framework. This included 19 Senior Fellows, 10 Fellows, and 25 Associate Fellows.
With Advance HE updating its assessment criteria from PSF 2011 to PSF 2023, STOU recognizes the importance of equipping its staff with a thorough understanding and correct practices for the new standards. The goal is to ensure continuous and effective professional development in teaching and learning.
The Distance Education Staff Development Academy initiated this program with the primary objective of increasing the number of accredited personnel. Furthermore, it aims to develop a sufficient pool of high-quality mentors, assessors, and reviewers within the university. These efforts are expected to directly elevate the quality and standards of STOU’s distance learning system, gaining recognition both nationally and internationally in the near future.
