• UGI USER
  • Jul 27, 2023
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Q. Online education is gaining traction in India due to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. Identify the different challenges that need to be addressed before it can emerge as a feasible alternative to classroom learning in India. Suggest some measures to address the above-identified challenges.

Approach:

  • Briefly discuss how COVID-19 has led to increased adoption of online learning.
  • Discuss the issues regarding adoption of online education on a large scale.
  • Suggest measures to give an impetus to online education in India.
  • Conclude on the basis of the above points.

Answer:

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has led to shutting down of schools and colleges temporarily  across the country, which has disrupted the education sector. This has led to adoption of online  education using mediums such as zoom, Skype etc., which has ensured continuation of classes in a  flexible manner and even holding of examinations, thereby emerging as an alternative to classroom  learning.

However, there are several challenges associated with online learning, including:

  • Conducive environment and impact on quality: In a physical classroom setting, interaction is more dynamic and course instructors can stimulate feedback from students more easily but in  the digital world it becomes the teacher’s responsibility to innovate. Not all students get a conducive environment at home. 37% of households in India have one dwelling room.
  • Digital divide: According to ‘Indicators of Household Social Consumption on Education in India’ report, approximately 15% of rural households have an internet connection compared to  around 42% urban households.

Further, as per NSSO data, around 4.4% of rural households and 23.4% of urban households  have a computer/laptop. Those with no internet access are excluded from quality learning.

  • Access to electricity: It is crucial for digital education, both for powering devices as well as for connecting to the internet. According to a MoRD survey, only 47% received more than 12 hours  of electricity a day.
  • Difficulties for teachers: Without adequate training, many teachers are not comfortable with  online classes. Also, with reduced interaction, it is difficult for them to develop rapport with  students.
  • Cost burden: There is no policy clarity over sharing the cost burden of internet services.

Measures to address the challenges include:

  • Expanding online learning avenues: Open-source digital learning solutions and learning management software should be adopted by educational institutions to conduct online classes. DIKSHA platform, with its all-India reach, should be strengthened.
  • Increasing access to internet: Services of Bharatnet and Wi-Fi Choupal should be expanded for students in remote villages to access educational modules.
  • Provisions for students without internet access: TV channels and community radio should also be used to disseminate lessons. ThinkZone, a startup from Odisha, has partnered with a  local radio channel to broadcast activity-based learning modules for students aged three to ten.
  • Training teachers: Training sessions in online classes should be conducted for teachers so that technological and physical barriers do not hinder them from imparting lessons.
  • Easing restrictions: Under Pradhan Mantri e-VIDYA initiative, top 100 universities of the country were allowed to start online courses by 30th May, 2020 without UGC license. Other  educational institutions too should be granted such permission.

Although virtual learning provides an alternative in a pandemic like situation, still the importance of the classroom cannot be undermined. It is required for learning life skills such as socialization with  children, interactions with teachers and society.