Distance Education, Open & Distance Learning

admin

11 months ago

Open & Distance Education

Open & Distance Learning in India was introduced by Delhi University in 1962 through the School of Correspondence Courses and Continuing Education to enable those, who had the inclination and aptitude to acquire further knowledge and improve their professional competence. In 1968, Correspondence Courses were started by Punjabi University & University of Rajasthan. In 1969 Meerut and Mysore University started Open & Distance Learning. The setting up of Indira Gandhi National Open University by the Government of India in 1985 by an Act of the Parliament is considered to be a landmark development field of distance education in India.

The Distance Education Council (DEC) was established in 1991 under Section 16(7) read with Section 5(2) of the IGNOU Act, 1985. As per clause (2) (a) of the statute 28, the DEC was responsible for the promotion and coordination of the Open and Distance Learning system in the Country. In May, 2007 a Joint Committee was formed by signing a MoU between UGC, AICTE and DEC for the period of three years till May, 2010. The Joint Committee developed guidelines in the form of ‘Recognition of Open and Distance Learning (ODL) Institutions’ Handbook 2009. Thereafter, in pursuance of the directions issued by the Ministry of Education, the Department of Higher Education, Government of India issued order dated 29.12.2012, thereby the regulatory functions with regard to Distance Education programmes (excluding technical education) in higher education were vested with the University Grants Commission and for technical education, the AICTE act as a regulator through ODL mode.

Education plays an important role in a person life. It shapes the future and gives numerous approaches to make progress throughout everyday life. Online and Distance Education constitutes a noteworthy piece of the higher education range in India. Now day’s understudies have the choice to learn through the Online and distance education mode. Numerous colleges offer moderate distance training projects to enable individuals to proceed with their studies along with their job.

UGC Recognised top University in India

Benefits of Distance Education

While distance education offers numerous benefits, it also presents challenges, such as the need for effective online pedagogy, ensuring equitable access to technology, and addressing issues related to student engagement and motivation. The field continues to evolve with advancements in technology and innovations in educational delivery methods.

Flexibility in Distance Education : Distance education provides flexibility in terms of when and where learning takes place. Students can access course materials and participate in discussions at their own pace and from any location with internet access.

Technological Tools use in Distance Education: The use of technology is essential in distance education. Learning management systems (LMS), video conferencing, online forums, and other digital tools facilitate communication and the delivery of educational content.

Self-Paced Learning in Distance Education:

In many distance education programs, students have the flexibility to progress through the material at their own pace. This allows individuals with diverse schedules and commitments to balance education with other responsibilities.

Diverse Course Formats in Distance Education:

Distance education can take various forms, including fully online courses, hybrid models that combine online and in-person components, and asynchronous courses where students can access materials and participate in discussions at any time.

Accessibility in Distance Education:

Distance education can make education more accessible to individuals who may face barriers to traditional, on-campus learning. This includes those with geographical constraints, work or family commitments, or physical disabilities.

Global Reach in Distance Education:

Through distance education, institutions can reach a global audience, allowing students from different parts of the world to enroll in courses and programs without the need to relocate.