- The concept of distance learning was first initiated in India through the Indira Gandhi National Open University, popularly known as IGNOU. This was the first distance learning school in India set up as early as 1985 by a parliamentary regulation. Currently there are 15 to 20 distance learning universities in India. The DEC (Distance Education Council) has specified the norms of setting up distance learning universities, which these schools need to abide by. Distance learning schools are also known as open universities because of their flexibility to accommodate higher number of students at any time without a limit on age or course choices.
- The significance of distance learning coursework is much more relevant in the present context. Perhaps this explains the growing number of distance learning universities and courses in India--apart from the oldest being IGNOU, the other well-known open universities are Netaji Subhas Open University, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Open University which offer a plethora of professional as well as traditional courses at all levels--bachelor's, master's, doctoral and even post-doctoral. Professional courses in business management, mass communication, public relations are most in demand.
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There is a thin line between distance learning courses and online learning courses. While all online courses are part of distance learning programs, all distance learning programs are not online courses.
In India, students enrolled in distance learning receive academic material and at the end of each course appear for examinations at centers specified by the university or school. This helps the students prepare for examination at their pace while they hold down a job at the same time, since there are no formal classes. Mostly the examinations are held on weekends or public holidays for the convenience of the students. -
Distance learning courses also are offered by regular universities like Symbiosis University in Pune, or Manipal University Karnataka because of its increasing potential. Many professionals pursue these diplomas for advancement midway in their careers.
They have also proven beneficial to students from underprivileged backgrounds who may be forced to drop out due to financial problems. These schools give them the opportunity to complete their education while they work.
For students who want to take vocational or art-related courses like performing arts or painting, but feel pressured to get a conventional university degree, these distance learning schools are an ideal fit.
Also, students who fail to cope up with the traditional educational system also enroll in distance education since it ensures grasping knowledge at their pace without the fear of failure and pressure.
These factors have increased the potential growth of distance learning schools in India. -
Distance learning schools in India have given hope to many students from diverse backgrounds with diverse interests. Education advocates in India see this as a new platform to increase interest among students to complete their education and pursue higher degrees and diplomas. This also would build up the confidence of students who may be introverted by nature or who may feel especially susceptible to peer pressure. Distance learning helps defuse high-pressure competition in class.
These are some of the reasons why distance learning schools are a healthy trend in Indian education.
Comments
azhermemon said
on 10/30/2009 In India Distance Learning is growing filed and there are very university in india providing Distance learning. Among them IGNOU is Big name for Indian Students.They are offering wide range of programme for students who have left their study or want to further study along with job or full time work.
Ankita
http://ignou4u.blogspot.com