Department of Higher Education Recognizes 16 Educators with National Awards

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August 29, 2024

The Department of Higher Education, under the Ministry of Education, has recognised the exceptional contributions of 16 teachers from Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) and Polytechnics across India by selecting them for the prestigious National Awards to Teachers (NAT) 2024. This marks a significant expansion of the NAT program, which was traditionally focused on school teachers and now includes educators from higher education and polytechnic institutions.

The selection process for NAT 2024 is rooted in the principles of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasises the importance of motivated, energised, and capable faculty in advancing student outcomes, institutional performance, and the broader educational profession. The NEP 2020 also advocates for rewards and recognition to foster a culture of excellence within the education ecosystem.

This year, the NAT program introduced two distinct categories for awards: one for teachers in Higher Educational Institutions and another for those in Polytechnic Institutions. The awards are distributed across various academic disciplines, including Engineering, Technology, Architecture, Pure Sciences, Mathematics, Arts, Social Sciences, Humanities, and more.

The selection criteria for these awards were based on a comprehensive evaluation of the teachers’ performance, focusing on Teaching Learning Effectiveness, Outreach Activities, Research and Innovation, and Sponsored Research/Faculty Development Programs/Consultancy Teaching. Among these, learning effectiveness and outreach activities held the highest weight in the evaluation process.

The selection procedure involved a two-step process: first, a Preliminary Search-cum-Screening Committee shortlisted the nominees, and then a Jury Committee selected the final awardees from this list. Nominations were invited online through the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal, which allows for self-, institutional, and peer nominations.

Also Read: IIT Madras and IIT Ropar Join Forces to Boost Data Science Education

The 16 awardees represent a diverse group of educators from Polytechnics, State Universities, and Central Higher Education Institutions across India. Below is a list of the honoured teachers and their respective institutions:

Dr. Gandhimathi A – Thiagarajar Polytechnic College, Tamil Nadu
Prof. Parmar Ranjitkumar Khimjibhai – Government Polytechnic Khadiya, Gujarat
Prof. Nidhi Jain – Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Delhi
Dr. Smiline Girija – Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Tamil Nadu
Prof. Birinchi Kumar Sarma – Banaras Hindu University, Uttar Pradesh
Prof. Srinivas Hotha – Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Pune, Maharashtra
Dr S R Keshava – Bangalore University, Karnataka
Prof. Shilpagauri Prasad Ganpule – PDEA’s Prof. Ramkrishna More College, Maharashtra
Dr. Chayapuram Jaya Sankar Babu – Pondicherry University, Puducherry
Prof. Nilabh Tiwari – Central Sanskrit University, Madhya Pradesh
Prof. Vinay Sharma – Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Uttarakhand
Dr. Nandavaram Mrudula – Govt. Degree College for Women, Telangana
Dr. Shimi S L – Punjab Engineering College, Chandigarh
Prof. Kapil Ahuja – Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Madhya Pradesh
Dr. Anitha Suseelan – CHRIST Deemed to be University, Karnataka
Prof. Dr. Shahanaz Ayub – Bundelkhand Institute of Engineering and Technology, Uttar Pradesh

These awards not only recognise the individual achievements of these educators but also underscore the critical role they play in shaping the future of higher education in India. The Department of Higher Education’s initiative to include higher education faculty in the NAT awards is a testament to its commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement in the educational landscape.

IIT Madras and IIT Ropar Join Forces to Boost Data Science Education

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Chetan Tawakley

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August 28, 2024

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) and the Indian Institute of Technology Ropar (IIT Ropar) have entered into a landmark collaboration aimed at enhancing educational and research opportunities for students pursuing a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Data Science and Applications at IIT Madras. This partnership opens new pathways for these students, including the opportunity to pursue a Master of Science (MS) at IIT Ropar without the need for GATE scores.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for this collaboration was signed on August 28, 2024, by Professor V Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras, and Professor Rajeev Ahuja, Director of IIT Ropar. Key faculty members from both institutions attended the signing ceremony, highlighting the significance of this partnership.

Key Features of the Collaboration:

Direct MS Admission: Select students from the IIT Madras BS in Data Science program will be eligible for direct admission to the MS program at IIT Ropar without requiring GATE scores, provided they meet the specified academic criteria.
Credit Transfer and In-Person Learning: IIT Madras BS students can now complete their credit requirements by taking in-person courses at IIT Ropar, enriching their learning experience and facilitating the exchange of academic resources and expertise.
Research and Internship Opportunities: The collaboration enables IIT Madras students to engage in research programs and internships under the mentorship of the IIT Ropar faculty, particularly during the summer months.
Extended Learning Pathways: Students from IIT Ropar will also benefit from this partnership by gaining access to courses in data science and programming offered through the IIT Madras BS program, ensuring a comprehensive and well-rounded education for all participants.

Leadership Perspectives:

Professor V Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “This partnership aligns with IIT Madras’s vision of democratising higher education opportunities. The initiative by IIT Ropar to admit exceptional students from our BS programs into their postgraduate programs is a visionary step that will greatly benefit deserving students, especially those from rural India. I extend my gratitude to the Director of IIT Ropar for this forward-thinking initiative.”

Echoing this sentiment, Professor Rajeev Ahuja, Director of IIT Ropar, remarked, “We are excited to embark on this transformative journey with IIT Madras. By joining forces, we are expanding academic and research horizons and creating new opportunities for our students and faculty. This collaboration sets the stage for groundbreaking advancements in education and research, establishing new benchmarks for success.”

Also Read: Kreedo Edtech Secures $4 Million Funding from Heritas Capital

Expanding Educational Horizons:

IIT Madras introduced its innovative BS in Data Science and Applications program in June 2020. This program, designed to provide high-quality education through online content delivery combined with in-person assessments, has attracted over 30,000 active students. The collaboration with IIT Ropar is the latest in a series of strategic partnerships that IIT Madras has forged with other premier institutions, including IIT Gandhinagar and the Chennai Mathematical Institute (CMI), to provide in-person learning opportunities for students in the final year of the program.

Professor Vignesh Muthuvijayan, Coordinator of the BS Degree program at IIT Madras, highlighted the significance of such collaborations, stating, “These partnerships will greatly enhance opportunities for both students and faculty. Our BS (Data Science) students, who have primarily been learning online, can now experience the benefits of in-person learning and deeper engagement with their peers and instructors.”

A New Era of Academic Collaboration:

The collaboration between IIT Madras and IIT Ropar is poised to set new standards in academic partnerships. With a well-defined roadmap and specific areas of engagement, both institutions are committed to achieving excellence in research, education, and social impact. This MoU lays the groundwork for a series of initiatives that will benefit both organisations and serve as a benchmark for future collaborations in the field of higher education.

The partnership exemplifies the growing trend of integrating online and offline education, offering students a flexible yet rigorous pathway to advanced degrees and research opportunities in data science and beyond.

Kreedo Edtech Secures $4 Million Funding from Heritas Capital

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Chetan Tawakley

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August 28, 2024

Bengaluru-based early childhood education startup Kreedo has successfully raised $4 million (INR 33 crore) in a Series A funding round. The round was co-led by Heritas Capital and UBS Optimus Foundation, with participation from existing investors, including Gray Matters Capital, 1Crowd, The Chennai Angels, and The Joka Angel Network, among others.

Kreedo plans to leverage the fresh capital to enhance its product offerings and expand its reach to new geographies across India. The startup has set ambitious goals to bring its innovative education programs to over 7,000 schools across multiple cities.

“With the current round, we will take Kreedo to more geographies in India. With incoming demand from our school partners, we also plan to extend our product offerings moving upwards to Grades 3-5 and enhance Practico, our digital home learning platform,” said Mridula Shridhar, co-founder of Kreedo.

Kreedo’s growth trajectory has been impressive over the past two years. The startup claims to have doubled its revenue, expanded its reach to 1,700 schools and preschools, and increased the number of children benefiting from its programs from 55,000 to more than 140,000.

Also Read: Education Ministry Unveils New Standards for Literacy and Full Literacy

The successful funding round comes at a time when the Indian edtech sector is facing a challenging environment. Following a surge in investment during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the industry has witnessed a significant decline in investor interest as schools and colleges reopened. The sector has also been plagued by issues such as heavy cash burn, mounting losses, and governance challenges, leading to layoffs and the shutdown of several startups.

Despite these challenges, the Indian edtech market remains a significant growth opportunity, with an estimated potential to reach $29 billion by 2030, according to a report by Inc42. Kreedo’s recent funding success indicates that investors still see value in innovative and sustainable models within the sector, particularly those focused on foundational education.

Education Ministry Unveils New Standards for Literacy and Full Literacy

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Chetan Tawakley

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August 27, 2024

The Ministry of Education (MoE) has issued a clarion call to all States and Union Territories to achieve ‘full literacy’ by the year 2030. In a letter addressed to State governments, School Education Secretary Sanjay Kumar outlined the renewed push for adult literacy under the New India Literacy Programme (NILP), a five-year initiative (2022-2027) targeting the onboarding of one crore learners annually across the nation.

Redefining Literacy and Full Literacy

In his communication, Secretary Kumar provided a detailed definition of ‘literacy’ and what it means to achieve ‘full literacy’ in India. He emphasised that literacy is not merely the ability to read and write but also encompasses numeracy and critical life skills such as digital and financial literacy. The goal of ‘full literacy’ is to be achieved when a State or Union Territory attains a 95% literacy rate, which will be considered equivalent to 100% literacy under the NILP guidelines.

The MoE’s directive also clarified that under the NILP, individuals previously classified as non-literate could be considered literate upon passing the Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Assessment Test (FLNAT). In the latest FLNAT conducted in March 2024, out of 34,62,289 participants, 29,52,385 (85.27%) were certified as literate. This marks a slight decline from the previous year, where pass percentages ranged from 89.64% to 91.27%.

Budget Allocation and Utilization

The NILP has been allocated ₹160 crore for the fiscal year 2024-25, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing adult literacy. However, the actual utilisation of funds in previous years reveals a mixed picture. In 2022-23, only ₹76.41 crore of the allocated ₹160 crore was spent. In 2023-24, the budget was initially raised to ₹157 crore but was later revised downward to ₹100 crore.

The Literacy Challenge in India

India continues to grapple with a significant literacy challenge, particularly among adults. According to Census 2011, 25.76 crore individuals in the 15 years and above age group remain non-literate, comprising 9.08 crore males and 16.68 crore females. Despite the progress made under the Saakshar Bharat programme, which certified 7.64 crore individuals as literate between 2009-2018, an estimated 18.12 crore adults in India are still non-literate.

Also Read: VCs, Staff Appointments in Telangana Universities to Begin Soon

The Road Ahead

The letter from the School Education Secretary underscores the disadvantages faced by non-literate individuals, including challenges in financial transactions, job applications, media comprehension, technology use, and understanding of rights. The MoE’s ULLAS initiative, under the NILP, is seen as a critical tool in addressing these gaps and pushing India towards achieving full literacy by 2030.

“I urge all States and Union Territories to strive for Bharat reaching full literacy by 2030 with the ULLAS (NILP) initiative,” Mr Kumar wrote, emphasising the importance of collective effort in this nationwide mission.

This renewed focus on adult literacy is expected to play a crucial role in India’s broader development agenda, empowering millions of citizens to participate more fully in the country’s economic and social life.

VCs, Staff Appointments in Telangana Universities to Begin Soon

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Chetan Tawakley

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August 27, 2024

In order to rejuvenate Telangana’s higher education sector, Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy announced the appointment of new vice-chancellors for all state universities within the next 15-20 days. Speaking at a cheque distribution event for the ‘Rajiv Gandhi Civils Abhaya Hastham’ scheme at Dr BR Ambedkar Telangana State Secretariat on August 26, the CM emphasised the state government’s commitment to filling all vacant teaching and non-teaching positions, including those of assistant professors and professors, across universities.

The event, which saw the distribution of Rs 1 lakh cheques to civil services aspirants who cleared the UPSC prelims, highlighted the CM’s resolve to uplift the education sector. Reddy underscored that the cheque distribution at the secretariat was not just financial aid but also a symbolic gesture to instil confidence in the public, particularly the youth, that the government is accessible and supportive.

Reflecting on his own experiences and those of other leaders like Seethakka, who faced barriers when trying to address public issues at the secretariat, the CM reassured the aspirants that the government is now playing a supportive role, akin to a family. He encouraged them to excel in the upcoming UPSC mains exam and contribute to the pride of their villages, districts, and the state.

Revanth Reddy also announced plans to educate 2,000 students at the Young India Skills University on a temporary engineering college campus this year. By next year, the university aims to enrol 20,000 students in various certificate, diploma, and degree programs, reflecting the government’s commitment to skill development and higher education.

Also Read: TPG to invest $150M in Indian edtech start-up Eruditus

Addressing concerns about competitive exams, the CM urged students to compete confidently, dismissing calls for postponement as politically motivated. He assured that the government is always open to addressing genuine concerns and pointed to the recent postponement of the Group II exams as an example of their responsiveness.

In total, 135 out of 172 civil aspirants received their Rs 1 lakh cheques under the ‘Rajiv Gandhi Abhaya Hastham’ scheme, marking a significant step in the government’s efforts to support and encourage the next generation of civil servants in Telangana.

This initiative is part of a broader strategy by the Telangana government to restore faith in public education and ensure that students have the resources and support needed to succeed in their academic and professional pursuits.

TPG to invest $150M in Indian edtech start-up Eruditus

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Kapil Suri

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August 26, 2024

Eruditus, the Indian edtech start-up, is reportedly close to securing a significant investment from TPG, a leading private equity firm. According to TechCrunch, TPG is in advanced talks to lead a $150 million funding round for Eruditus, which could mark one of the largest fundraising efforts by an Indian education company in recent years.

The new investment is expected to value Eruditus at up to $2.3 billion, a figure contingent upon the start-up meeting specific performance targets. Should these targets not be met, the valuation could drop to a minimum of $1.8 billion. This valuation reflects a decrease from the $3.2 billion Eruditus achieved during its last funding round in August 2021.

Founded 14 years ago, Eruditus partners with top global universities to offer executive education programs, with over two-thirds of its revenue generated from international markets. Discussions for the funding began last year, initially aiming for a $50 million secondary round to allow early investors to exit. However, following a full year of EBITDA profitability, Eruditus decided to pursue a larger round, aiming to close it before relocating its base from Singapore to India.

Also read: Indian EdTech Titans Unacademy And K12 Techno Eye Landmark Merger

The proposed $150 million round would be Eruditus’s first significant equity raise since August 2021. In the interim, the SoftBank-backed start-up secured $350 million in debt from the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB) in 2022 to fuel mergers and acquisitions and consolidate its position in a competitive market. Looking ahead, Eruditus plans to shift its domicile from Singapore to India within the next 12-18 months, signalling a strategic move in its ongoing expansion.

From Chalkboards to Algorithms: AI’s Role in India’s Educational Shift

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digitalLEARNING Network

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August 25, 2024

The Indian education system is on the cusp of a revolutionary change. With the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the way we teach and learn is undergoing a transformation that promises to make education more personalised, efficient, and inclusive. In a country with over 250 million students enrolled in schools and millions more in higher education, AI is not just a buzzword but a necessary tool to address the challenges of scale, diversity, and quality.

The AI Revolution in Indian Classrooms

India’s education system has long been criticised for its one-size-fits-all approach. However, AI offers a solution by enabling personalised learning experiences. Imagine a classroom where students’ learning paths are customised based on their strengths, weaknesses, and interests. AI-powered platforms like BYJU and Vedantu already implement adaptive learning technologies that tailor content to individual learning speeds. These platforms use AI algorithms to analyse student performance and provide personalised feedback, helping students improve in areas where they struggle.

According to a recent report by NITI Aayog, using AI in education could enhance learning outcomes by 40%. The report also highlights that AI can help bridge the gap between urban and rural education by providing quality resources and teachers to remote areas. With initiatives like the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which advocates for digital literacy and AI integration, the Indian government is laying the groundwork for an AI-driven education system.

Another report by TeamLease EdTech, titled “Revolutionising Classrooms: The Impact of Generative AI on the Future of Education,” reveals a significant shift in Indian education, with over 60% of educators already integrating AI tools into their classrooms for teaching, preparation, and student engagement. The survey, which included over 6,000 educators ranging from school teachers to university professors, highlights that 64.87% of respondents recognise AI’s potential to transform and personalise learning experiences. However, the report also underscores ethical concerns, with 87.85% of educators advocating for government regulation and monitoring of AI in education. Despite these concerns, 70.85% of educators believe that AI’s impact on education will surpass even that of the smartphone revolution. TeamLease EdTech CEO Shantanu Rooj and co-founder Neeti Sharma emphasise the importance of using AI to augment human potential rather than replace it. The report serves as a roadmap for responsible AI adoption in education, offering valuable insights for schools, colleges, universities, policymakers, and other stakeholders on how to integrate AI while addressing ethical considerations.

Transforming Assessment and Evaluation
Traditional assessment methods often fail to capture students’ true potential. AI is changing this by offering more comprehensive and continuous evaluation techniques. Tools like Mindspark, an AI-based adaptive learning program, assess students’ understanding in real-time and provide instant feedback. This helps teachers identify learning gaps but also supports students in mastering concepts at their own pace.

In recent news, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced its plan to integrate AI into its evaluation process. In 2025, CBSE will employ AI algorithms to analyse exam papers and provide more accurate, unbiased grading. This move is expected to reduce human errors and biases in assessment, ensuring a fairer evaluation system.

AI-Powered Teacher Training and Development

Teachers are the backbone of the education system, and their development is crucial for the successful integration of AI in classrooms. AI can assist in teacher training by providing personalised learning paths like it does for students. Platforms like CENTA (Centre for Teacher Accreditation) use AI to offer customised professional development programs for teachers based on their needs and performance.

In 2023, the Government of Karnataka launched an AI-based teacher training initiative in collaboration with Microsoft. The program uses AI to analyse teaching patterns, identify areas of improvement, and suggest personalised training modules. This initiative has already shown promising results, with participating teachers reporting a 30% improvement in classroom engagement and student outcomes.

Inclusive Education Through AI

One of AI’s most significant advantages is its potential to make education more inclusive. In a diverse country like India, where students come from various linguistic and socio-economic backgrounds, AI can help bridge the gap. For instance, AI-powered language translation tools can break down language barriers, enabling students from different regions to access the same quality of education.

All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) recently launched an AI-driven platform that offers learning resources in multiple Indian languages. This platform, developed in collaboration with Google, provides translated content for engineering and technical courses, making it accessible to students in their native languages. The initiative has been a game-changer for students from rural and non-English speaking backgrounds, allowing them to compete on a level playing field.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
While AI’s potential to transform Indian education is immense, it is not without challenges. The digital divide, lack of infrastructure, and the need for AI literacy are significant hurdles that must be addressed. However, with the Indian government’s push towards digital inclusion and the increasing adoption of AI in various sectors, these challenges can be overcome.

Moreover, AI presents an opportunity to revolutionise education in ways we never imagined. From personalised learning experiences to inclusive education, AI is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Indian education.

Integrating Artificial Intelligence into the Indian education system is no longer a distant dream but an ongoing reality. With continuous innovations, government support, and increasing AI literacy, India is on its way to creating an education system that is not only world-class but also accessible to all. As we move forward, embracing AI will be key to unlocking the full potential of our students and, ultimately, the nation.

By leveraging AI, we can ensure that the Indian education system is not just a system of rote learning but one that nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and lifelong learning. The future of education in India is bright, and AI is at the forefront of this transformation.

Dharmendra Pradhan Unveils ‘Sapno ki Udaan’ E-Magazine on National Space Day

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Kapil Suri

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August 24, 2024

In a landmark event coinciding with India’s National Space Day, the Department of School Education & Literacy, Ministry of Education, in collaboration with NCERT, released the inaugural edition of the e-magazine ‘Sapno ki Udaan.’ The e-magazine was launched to commemorate the first anniversary of the historic landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the lunar South Pole.

Union Minister of Education Dharmendra Pradhan virtually released the inaugural issue, which will be available online on the NCERT portal. Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State for Education, also graced the virtual launch with his presence.

During the event, Dharmendra Pradhan emphasised that the e-magazine aligns with the recommendations of the National Education Policy 2020 (#NEP2020) by making education more accessible and equitable. He noted that the current theme of the magazine, ‘space,’ reflects the vastness of children’s imagination and prepares them to tackle the global challenges of the 21st century.

Jayant Chaudhary highlighted the significance of launching the magazine on National Space Day, stating that it celebrates India’s scientific achievements and fosters a spirit of scientific inquiry among students.

Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of the Department of School Education and Literacy, unveiled the magazine, describing it as a vibrant mix of poetry, essays, stories, and riddles contributed by students, teachers, and parents across India. He announced that the e-magazine, currently published quarterly, is expected to transition to a monthly publication in the future.

Also read: Dharmendra Pradhan Launches NATS 2.0, Ensuring Rs. 100 Crore Stipends to Nurture Young Talent

The virtual event was attended by several distinguished officials, including Vipin Kumar, Additional Secretary; Prof. D.P. Saklani, Director of NCERT; Rahul Singh, Chairperson of CBSE; and Prof. Saroj Sharma, Chairperson of NIOS. They all expressed their optimism that the collaboration among stakeholders would yield long-term benefits for the educational community.

The e-magazine ‘Sapno ki Udaan’ and its subsequent issues will be accessible online for readers through the NCERT portal.

The Future of Online Learning: Emerging Trends and Technologies

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Kapil Suri

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August 23, 2024

The field of education has witnessed a seismic shift over the past few decades, with online learning carving out a permanent and significant place in modern education. This transformation was accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced educational institutions worldwide to adapt swiftly to virtual classrooms. As we look ahead, the future of online learning appears promising, driven by emerging trends and technologies that will continue to enhance its relevance and effectiveness. The online education market worldwide is projected to grow by 8.56% (2024-2029), resulting in a market volume of US$279.30bn in 2029.

Online courses will always be relevant due to their inherent flexibility, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness. The number of online learning users is expected to reach 57 million by 2027. Traditional education systems often face limitations such as geographic constraints, high costs, and rigid schedules. Online learning breaks these barriers, providing opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds to access quality education anytime, anywhere. This mode of learning caters not only to students but also to professionals seeking to upskill and stay competitive in their careers.

Evolution of online learning

The pandemic acted as a catalyst for the widespread adoption of online learning. Although hybrid models were already in vogue, educational institutions had no choice but to completely pivot to virtual classrooms, leading to a rapid evolution in online pedagogy. Tools such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Classroom became household names. Educators developed new strategies to engage students remotely, incorporating interactive elements like quizzes, breakout rooms, and virtual labs to simulate in-person experiences.

Post-pandemic, online learning has become an integral part of the education system. The experience gained during the pandemic has led to improved online teaching methods, with a focus on creating a more engaging and effective learning environment. Blended learning models, which combine online and offline elements, are becoming increasingly popular, offering the best of both worlds.

Online learning plays a crucial role in upskilling students who have limited access to traditional educational institutions. In regions where infrastructure is lacking, online courses provide a lifeline for learners to acquire knowledge and skills.

Emerging trends and technologies shaping online learning

Artificial intelligence and machine learning

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are revolutionising online education. AI-powered tools offer personalised recommendations for courses and content, as well as real-time support and feedback. ML algorithms help identify knowledge gaps and tailor learning experiences to individual needs, enhancing the overall effectiveness of online education. A report by Markets and Markets predicts that the global VR/AR in education market will reach USD 14.2 billion by 2028.

Virtual and augmented reality

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are set to transform online learning by creating immersive simulations and scenarios. These technologies allow learners to practice real-world skills in a safe environment. For instance, medical students can use VR to simulate complex surgical procedures, while engineering students can manipulate 3D models using AR.

Microlearning and mobile learning

Microlearning and mobile learning cater to the growing demand for flexible, on-the-go education. Microlearning breaks down content into bite-sized, easily digestible chunks, while mobile learning allows learners to access content via smartphones and tablets. These trends align with the shrinking attention spans and busy lifestyles of modern learners.

Gamification and game-based learning

Gamification and game-based learning make online education more engaging and interactive. By incorporating elements like points, badges, and leaderboards, educators incentivise learners to complete courses and achieve their goals. Game-based learning uses actual games to teach complex concepts or soft skills, making the learning process enjoyable and effective.

Blockchain

Blockchain technology is being utilised to verify academic credentials securely and transparently. This ensures the authenticity of online degrees, giving employers confidence in the qualifications of graduates. As a result, the credibility of online education is significantly enhanced.

Social learning and collaboration

Social learning and collaboration are becoming essential components of online education. By creating online communities and fostering collaborative learning environments, educators encourage knowledge sharing and skill development. This approach is particularly effective in developing soft skills like communication and leadership.

Also read: Innovations in Online Learning: How Colleges Are Adapting to the Digital Age

Future Possibilities for Learners

Growth of Collaborative Learning

Online learning platforms are increasingly integrating features that promote collaboration among learners. Discussion boards, group projects, and peer-to-peer learning are becoming standard, enhancing the collaborative aspect of online education. This trend is likely to continue, fostering a more connected and interactive learning experience.

Emphasis on skill-based learning

Online education is well-suited for acquiring specific skills and knowledge, enabling continuous upskilling throughout one’s career. The future will see a greater emphasis on skill-based learning, catering to the evolving needs of the job market and supporting lifelong learning journeys.
A recent report indicates that Web Development is the most popular skill-based course, accounting for 16% of enrollments. Digital Marketing and Programming with Python are also in high demand, each attracting 8% of students. Advanced Excel courses have 5% enrollment, while Data Science and Machine Learning both have 4%. These figures demonstrate the varied interests of students across engineering, programming, business development, and data science disciplines.

Increased recognition of online learning

The recognition and acceptance of online learning by employers and educational institutions are on the rise. The future may witness the development of standardised credentials for online learning achievements, ensuring their value and credibility. This will further legitimise online education and make it an integral part of the mainstream education system.

The future of online learning is bright, driven by emerging trends and technologies that enhance its relevance, accessibility, and effectiveness. As educational institutions and learners continue to embrace digital transformation, online learning will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of education. By leveraging advanced technologies and fostering a collaborative learning environment, online education will empower individuals to achieve their educational and career goals, regardless of their geographic location or socioeconomic background.

Views expressed by Sumit Shukla, Chairman, i-merit Steering Committee

Ministry of Education Rolls Out Second Phase of Learning Disability Training Program

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Kapil Suri

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August 23, 2024

In a continued effort to promote inclusive education, the Ministry of Education has launched the second phase of its Capacity Building Program on Specific Learning Disability (SLD) under the Malaviya Mission Teacher Training Programme (MMTTP). This initiative seeks to equip Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) with the expertise needed to support students with learning disabilities, building on the successful outcomes of the program’s first cycle.

The launch was marked by the presence of prominent figures such as Secretary for Higher Education, Shri K. Sanjay Murthy; Additional Secretary, Higher Education, Shri S.K. Barnwal; Joint Secretary, Higher Education, Smt. Rina Sonowal Kouli; Director, Higher Education, Shri Devendra Kumar Sharma; and Co-founder of Changeinkk Foundation, Smt. Noopur Jhunjhunwala. Representatives from 45 centrally funded HEIs, including universities and technical institutes like IITs, IIITs, and NITs, participated virtually in the event.

Shri K. Sanjay Murthy emphasised the significance of the initiative, noting that the National Education Policy 2020 acknowledges the need for an inclusive and equitable educational framework. He stressed that HEIs must be well-informed and sensitive to the challenges faced by students with specific learning disabilities. “A regular capacity-building program focused on learning disabilities is crucial for addressing these challenges,” Murthy explained, outlining how this initiative is designed to bolster the skills of key educational stakeholders.

The program’s first cycle, which ran from January to July 2024 in collaboration with Changeinkk Foundation, involved 27 HEIs and included Central Universities, IITs, and NITs. It provided over 400 faculty members with training through a variety of sessions, including orientation, sensitisation, masterclasses, and regional workshops. The program’s success has paved the way for this second phase, which will extend until December 2024.

This new cycle aims to deepen the focus on identifying and assessing students with SLD and addressing their educational needs. The program will include a blend of online and in-person sessions, specifically targeting institutional leaders and department heads. Participants will gain practical insights through interactive workshops, expert-led seminars, and hands-on sessions, all designed to enhance their ability to create supportive and inclusive learning environments.

Also read: Ministry of Education Unveils IKS Publications at 2024 Education Summit

Shri S.K. Barnwal, speaking at the launch, highlighted the importance of inclusive education and urged HEIs to take full advantage of this opportunity. “This program represents a vital step in empowering educators to meet the diverse needs of students with learning disabilities,” Barnwal remarked, encouraging institutions to embrace the initiative.

The Ministry’s ongoing efforts through this program demonstrate its commitment to fostering an educational system where all students, regardless of their learning challenges, are given the opportunity to thrive.

Key Features of the Collaboration:

Leadership Perspectives:

Expanding Educational Horizons:

A New Era of Academic Collaboration:

Redefining Literacy and Full Literacy

Budget Allocation and Utilization

The Literacy Challenge in India

The Road Ahead

The AI Revolution in Indian Classrooms

AI-Powered Teacher Training and Development

Inclusive Education Through AI

Evolution of online learning

Emerging trends and technologies shaping online learning

Artificial intelligence and machine learning

Virtual and augmented reality

Microlearning and mobile learning

Gamification and game-based learning

Blockchain

Social learning and collaboration

Future Possibilities for Learners

Growth of Collaborative Learning

Emphasis on skill-based learning

Increased recognition of online learning

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