[1] [2] Open University teaching methods are based primarily on distance learning technologies, with the option of face-to-face tutorial sessions.

The Edmond de Rothschild Foundation (Israel) endorsed the idea and offered to fund its establishment, based on the recommendation of a committee of experts chaired by Professor Wilbur Schramm of Stanford University.

An agreement signed in 1995 between the university and the Ra’anana municipality led to construction of the Dorothy de Rothschild campus.

All courses are designed for independent study, using textbooks and online learning materials produced specifically for the OUI.

Course websites feature additional study materials, technological aids, and forums for consulting with academic faculty and other students.

A credit transfer program, in conjunction with other top Israeli universities, allows students to begin their studies at the OUI without admission requirements and demonstrate scholastic success.

A steering committee composed of five senior faculty members and headed by the dean of research operates alongside the RA.

The centers provide support for researchers as they generate new scientific knowledge, and foster collaboration and programming with colleagues in Israel and abroad.

The institute supports research groups and organizes events related to topics of interest to the public that enhance the understanding and relationship between the three Abrahamic religions.

The center functions as a scientific, institutional, and applied hub for the research of theoretical, observational, and empirical topics and issues in astrophysics, including cosmology, relativist gravity and planetary science.

It facilitates partnerships between researchers from different disciplines, such as sociology, computer science, management, communications, education, psychology, and digital humanities.

Development is carried out in teams composed of faculty members, pedagogic and technological advisors, editors, graphic designers, film directors, and scriptwriters.

Lamda Scholarship was founded in 2013 as a platform for publishing innovative research-based Hebrew books in the humanities and social sciences.

The OUI publishes two Hebrew-language academic journals, Kriot Yisraeliot (Israeli readings) is a digital, multidisciplinary journal which focuses on empirical and theoretical issues relevant to Israeli society and Zmanim., is a history quarterly, co-published with Tel Aviv University and the Historical Society of Israel.

Some of the realms of development include the OPAL online learning environment, online exam systems, assistance in exam design, learning analytics, state-of-the-art video studios for live broadcasts, and educational video production and filmed courses.

The External Studies Center offers inservice training, and enrichment and professional development in a variety of fields.