Online Education in India
Education is the basic foundation of a student’s life. It shapes his overall personality and demeanor. Thus it is important that everyone has access to good education. With the growing popularity of electronic media, conventional methods of teaching are slowly and steadily being replaced by modern technology. With simple blackboards changing to interactive whiteboards, we are assured that change is on its way. This brings us to another important facet of education in a country like India – online education.
Online education is considered to be the means of attending classes via the internet. Many companies and start-ups provide online platforms to study on. These include MeritNation, Testbook, Toppr, Simplilearn, Ufaber, Intellipaat and Learnsocial among others.
Also known as distance learning, online education provides students with the advantage of studying in an atmosphere in which they are comfortable. This is especially beneficial for those individuals who are burdened with family responsibilities at a young age and those who barely have the time to attend a formal institution.
On the other hand, however, online education hinders the process of socialization. Limited contact with peers and restricted interactions with teachers can confine one’s horizons. The guidance that can be given through a direct, face-to-face conversation is often dwindled by the boundaries of the virtual world.
To add to this, internet penetration in India is very low. So it is not possible for people who really need this kind of education to actually benefit from it. This becomes the responsibility of the government then to ensure that the internet and consequently online education is made available to the remotest parts of the country.
Ultimately, just like there are two sides to a coin, online education has both advantages and disadvantages. It depends on an individual and his circumstances to decide whether the pros outweigh the cons or vice versa.
And that is probably why Heidi-Hayes Jacobs has said, “Teachers need to integrate technology seamlessly into the curriculum instead of viewing it as an add-on, an afterthought, or an event.” The education scenario in India must take such suggestions in its stride to better its service and quality.
