CRIDAL's vision in relation to the mission of the University is:

Mission: to engage in and promote research in distance and adult learning that supports the mission of the Open University of Hong Kong.

Vision: to be a leader in researching distance and adult learning in the Asia-Pacific region.

Key Values: Contribute to the fields of study of distance and adult education, along with lifelong and open learning, by:

1. producing quality research that is responsive to the needs of the University, the community and the region.
2. fostering collaboration and promoting intellectual inquiry, both within and external to the University.
3. providing knowledge and information services concerning research through publication, training, academic exchange and events.