According to a recent study of global level online learning programme; after the US, India has been reported to have the second highest number of online course enrollments with more than over 1,55,000 students from the country. Of a total of around 1.2 million students worldwide, 15 per cent are Indians.
In India there is a gamut of audience out there that aspires to enroll for courses that can anchor their careers. Even though the advent of digital education revolution started over three years back, the evolution has been gigantic. Despite a section of Indians being inclined towards the brick and mortar format of learning, the e-learning industry is gaining acceptance at a very fast pace. There is a growing understanding of the fact that direct-to-device technology empowers students seeking higher or skilled-based education to get quality class-room experience and education; anytime and anywhere, without having to relocate or pay hefty course fees.
Technology led reach and easy access will bring about a socio-economic difference in the lives of Indian learners. The advent of digital education in India is a shot in the arm for making quality learning affordably available to the masses. With each passing year we are witnessing a global rise in the number of collaborations and partnerships between Indian and international academic institutions for continuous upgradation of skills and make students ready for the job market. In 2014, when India launched its own Massive Open Online Course platform named Study Webs of Active-learning for Young Aspiring Minds which moved towards a mega mission which was to make India an ed-tech enabled nation.
The digital learning has relieved the Indian youth of that age old dilemma; whether to continue studying or quit to focus on landing a job. live and interactive digital learning formats are providing,wings to an individual’s career aspirations by offering experiential learning and imparting comprehensive and specialised knowledge, without having them to quit their jobs.
One of the biggest problems faced in India is that almost all highly skilled professionals are based in bigger cities. However, that is rapidly changing with the tremendous opportunities available in rural India. Initiatives like Digital India have taken the task of connecting the rural India to the Internet. With a huge student segment in India between the age groups of 18 to 35, who are willing to learn online, Ed-tech simplifies this process by taking the knowledge to masses through internet connectivity available.
The challenges faced by rural India especially of resources and scarcity of teachers can be handled with the online teachings. Students can enroll themselves in courses offered by prestigious institutions across the world, get expert advice from seasoned stalwarts across industries giving them the classroom experience and interaction that will open up avenues for diverse career options.
leading ed-tech firms believe in offering a holistic e-learning solution to the students. Through such offerings students now have an edge in learning, along with an opportunity to progress in their career.
The writer is Aditya Malik, CEO & MD, Talentedge