Scenario of E-Learning in India
The Scenario of E-learning in India
The invention of the internet has given new dimensions to the traditional education system all over the world. All we need is a device that has access to the internet and we are free to learn whatever we want, whenever we want and wherever you want. This process of learning through an online or electronic medium is known as e-learning.
E-learning is a term getting
increasingly popular these days. It is a system of learning through the use of
an electronic medium. It involves providing access to education outside of the
traditional classroom with the aid of electronic technologies. It incorporates
terms like distance education, online learning, online classes, computerized
learning, and the other forms where education is delivered online, via the
internet.
As the world faces the novel coronavirus pandemic together, new challenges await us because the world is no longer running its regular course. With more than 22,000,000 corona cases worldwide most parts of the world are under lockdown. No authentic vaccine has been developed. To ensure safety schools, colleges and other educational institutions have been shut for more than four months now. So traditional learning is no longer feasible.
The situation has compelled learners around the world to depend on the only
available option; E-learning. It is not only convenient but also safe. Indeed
it has been a blessing for without it there’d be no flow of education at all.
In INDIA though the emphasis was
always on traditional learning, e-learning has witnessed a steady growth rate
of 25% per year and is projected to be a 2$ billion industry by 2021. A limited number of intuitions have started online classes. The telecom industry has
revolutionized internet usage in our country by offering high-speed internet at
an affordable price thereby increasing the internet users in our country. Our
PM has envisioned our transforming the nation and creating a better age and
rising opportunities for all by harnessing the country’s digital strength
through the DIGITAL INDIA INITIATIVE.
So with the increasing technological
advancement here’s how the Indian education system is going to be affected:
POSITIVES
Convenience: People interested in
learning with the lack of time to adhere to strict classroom schedules, online
learning provides the convenience to learn at one’s own comfort. So the working class can continue to learn. Depending on availability and comfort one can
learn anytime, anywhere even on weekends and evenings.
Financially economical: In India,
around 8 million people are living in poverty. Online education offers
affordable courses and degrees compared to a regular college degree. Some institutions
even provide free courses. So with a device with the internet, anyone can learn
without having to spend a big amount.
Accommodates various teaching
methods: India is a country known for its rich culture and heritage. The
internet provides courses in different languages so that one can learn in their
native language. Whatever you wish to learn there are a thousand different
videos, articles, and more available online for you to house whichever suits
you best.
NEGATIVES
No practical training: Courses that require workshops, labs are difficult to pursue online. If a student from a remote village in India wishes to pursue mechanical engineering he can only watch or read about it but cannot get the necessary equipment unless he somehow arranges them on his own.
Fraudulent degrees: Many online
educators provide false degrees online so it is important to make sure that you
learn from an accredited online/distance learning program before spending money
on it.
Only suited for tech-friendly learners:
In India, a large part of the population is still not technologically advanced.
E-learning necessarily requires an understanding and availability of the
internet. One also needs to be apt in basic IT skills. So in India where a
significant part of the population is rural, poor, or illiterate eLearning is
of no use unless there is proper internet access everywhere algorithm necessary
infrastructure.
It’s apparent that though we are a developing country with a long way to go in order to become digitally independent yet in recent years the development in terms of digital advancement has been remarkable. It won’t be an exaggeration to say that e-learning will bridge the gap between learners and educators.
So why don’t we take a look at some major e-learning platforms-
EDX
It consists of various courses from
all the prominent universities from all over the world. It provides free
education however certification is paid.
Coursera
It has partnered with several
prestigious universities around the world to provide online courses covering
dozens of different subjects.
Unacademy
Originally created as a YouTube
channel, it is now India’s largest learning platform with paid and free
courses. Ranging from C.B.S.E. subjects of all classes to competitive exam
preparation it covers all the needs of Indian students.
BYJU's
It is an online learning platform
similar to Unacademy. It includes videos, study material, and more.
Lynda
Useful for learning skills related to
technology, business, and creativity.
Numerous other digital sources are
covering a diverse range of topics in various formats. Mentioned above are
merely some major online learning platforms.
With rapid progress in technology and
initiatives like DIGITAL INDIA e-learning will soon be embraced by the majority
of learners. The barriers of the traditional education system can easily be
crossed over with the emerging online education sector. Tough traditional
education can never be replaced but online education sure can provide new
realms to the learning experience.
Writer: Aastha Soni
Editor: Sonal Kamble
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