HOU

Hellenic Open University (HOU) is the only Greek State University that offers formal and non-formal lifelong education, at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, to more than 40.000 students who are dispersed all over the country (www.eap.gr). Its training methodology combines distance learning with principles of adult education, relies heavily on digital material and virtual meetings, and uses online training platforms and tools.  
About 80% of its students are working professionals who seek further education in order to improve or change their careers, thus HOU has established a permanent connection with the market, professional networks and professional development agencies. HOU is a member of EADTU, EUA, Eurashe and the Greek Digital Skills and Jobs coalition.  
It applies the ISO 9001:2008, ISO 27001:2013 and ELOT 1429:2008 quality standards. 

The DAISSy (Dynamic Ambient Intelligent Sociotechnical Systems) research group of the School of Science and Technology realizes society-centered educational and technological research, supports communities of practice, develops online learning platforms, MOOCs and 3D environments, enables the development of digital and citizenship skills, promotes inclusion and multiculturalism, and adopts standards (e-CF, DigComp, ECTS, ECVET, EQAVET etc.). Since its establishment, DAISSy has participated in more than 70 national and European projects, in various frameworks (i.e. FP5, FP6, FP7, Lifelong Learning, Erasmus+, H2020, AMIF etc.). Today the group employs more than 60 persons, including University professors, PhD and MSc holders, researchers in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence and Social Sciences, experienced ICT engineers, programmers and administrative personnel. DAISSy is a member of ALL DIGITAL, EVBB and ITPE networks. 

The Hellenic Open University (HOU) will be involved in all work packages but mostly in the Design of a Tour-X “Hospitality Labs” Toolbox. Namely, HOU will lead Task 3.3 and the creation of the “Quality Box for the increase of the quality in VET through feedback loops and graduate tracking systems”. HOU is also participating in the Creation of Sustainable Systemic Impact (WP5) , leading Task 5.2 “Creation and maintenance of a WatchTower for regional skills in the Tourism Sector” which entails designing a methodology to collect data and monitor skills needs on a regional level.