In a developing country like India, education is still a dream for many. Though we are living in the 21st century there are lots of barriers in the formal education system. As formal education is not so economical Non-Formal education system is gaining more popularity in recent years. Distance learning is a modern way of learning allowing students to study within their own space and time without being physically present in the school/college/university. As distance learning plays an important role in today’s education system it has increased the number of programs year on year.

What is distance education?

Distance education or Distance Learning is a type of education that focuses on the pedagogy, technology, and instructional systems design, that is effectively incorporated in educating students who are not physically present on-site in the classroom. Instead, teachers and students communicate asynchronously, by exchanging printed or electronic media, or through technology that allows them to communicate in real-time, synchronously. Distance education courses that require a physical on-site presence for any reason, including the taking of examinations, are considered to be a hybrid or blended course or program.

The concept of distance learning has emerged in various advanced countries of the world. The following points highlight the need for distance education:-

1.       Explosion of knowledge - There is an explosion of knowledge because of rapid scientific and technological developments. The formal system of education on account of its rigidity and high cost finds it difficult to incorporate new changes speedily as desired.

2.       Population Explosion - Unprecedented growth rate of population has resulted in the corresponding increase in students. The formal education system serves a selected and limited number of students.

3.       Varied Needs - Distance learning is needed to satisfy the varied needs of varied students.

4.       Earning while Learning - Distance education is especially needed for those who want to learn while learning.

5.       Desire to Improve Qualifications - Many people want to improve their educational qualifications while they are in jobs. Distance learning provides opportunities for such people to improve their qualifications.

6.       For Different Ages - Distance learning can be used to teach people of different ages and to teach courses from a wide range of discipline areas.

7.       Universal Education - Distance learning is needed to achieve the cherished goal of the nation for the universalization of education.

8.       Democratic Aspirations - Distance learning is needed to meet the great demand for the democratization of education from those sections of society that are neglected.

9.       Self – Improvement - Distance learning is needed from the point of view of self-learning and self-improvement of an individual who, otherwise is deprived of receiving proper education.

10.   Easy Access - It provides opportunities to a large number of people who had previously been denied such opportunities.

Things to know about distance education in India 

140+ dual-mode universities offer distance learning courses. 

All distance learning programs must be approved by the Distance Education Bureau (DEB) of the University Grants Commission (UGC.) You can check the list of ODLs (Online and Distant Learning Institutes) that are approved by the DEB. 

Distance learning has evolved immensely over the last two decades. With great advancement in technology. Distance learning now includes online learning or e-learning.

Two degrees cannot be pursued simultaneously informal education system. But; students can pursue two programmers simultaneously through the distance learning mode or combination of distance and regular modes from the same or different universities/institutions in the following combinations: 

·         1 Degree & 1 Diploma/PG

·         Diploma / Certificate

·         1 PG Diploma & 1 Diploma/Certificate

·         1 Diploma & 1 Certificate

·         2 PG Diplomas

·         2 Diplomas

·         2 Certificates

Influence of Online and Distance Education on Indian Students

Unlike other countries, India took quite a lot of time in becoming receptive to online courses and distance education. For many years this pursuit has been looked down upon by people; who think that distance education is not of the level of formal education. However; over the last decade, this has seen considerable changes. Students are interested in distance learning as many reputed colleges have started offering distance courses.

Is this form of education really beneficial?

This is the question that has worried many parents whose children want to enroll under distance learning courses. Many families have orthodox thinking when it comes to education, which has made distance learning take time to establish its roots in India. While regular courses enjoy credibility and benefits, these courses are tailor-made for those students having the time and money to spend on their education. 

What you need to realize is the fact that learning is beneficial if one has the passion, interest, and right attitude. Some women want to pursue higher education but because of personal and family-related issues, have not had an opportunity to pursue higher education. Online education has come as a boon to these women, now, they have an opportunity to pursue professional dreams along with taking care of the family.

Advantages of Distance Education

Study from anywhere, anytime: The best thing about distance education is you could learn it from anywhere and at any time. It does not matter in part of the country you are living you can join the course and start learning. Even if your course is offered by an international school you could easily get access to course material if you are a citizen of a different country. Get all the knowledge and training anywhere you reside on the planet.

1.       The flexibility of time: Normally, distance education offers the flexibility of time. It gives complete freedom to choose your own time for taking up the course. If you do not have time in a day then you can learn at night or some other time because the only thing that you need is a computer with an internet connection. You do not need to go in person and submit anything.

2.       The plethora of colleges: There are many colleges now that offer distance education. Hence you will not find any problem in finding a college. You could choose a college which is best for you. There are many colleges & universities where you can join and get your education distantly.

3.       Learn while working: You can learn or pursue your college while you are working. As I said earlier distance education offers complete flexibility of choosing time. Distance learning is not going to conflict with the timings of your day job. You could work all day and study at night or vice-versa. Therefore if you are a working professional then you could choose distance education without affecting your 9 to 5 job. Moreover, it is really good for housewives who can learn sitting in their home.

More Advantages…

·         Cheaper

·         No deadlines

·         Less pressure

·         No set start date

·         Self-motivation

·         Lots of flexibility

·         No commuting

·         You save time

·         Choice

·         Networking

·         Scheduling

·         Freedom & adaptability

Due to growing demand of distance education, many educational institutions has started distance learning courses. Working class as well as millions of students opt this mode of education. In India, it is offered by many reputed institutions/Universities. Distance learning courses starting from certificate level to postgraduate level can be done by the students. Courses are offered in the field of technology, management, etc.

Some most sought courses we offers:

·         BA Course (with specialization)

·         BBA Course (with specialization)

·         BCOM Course (with specialization)

·         BCA Course (with specialization)

·         B.SC-BIO Course

·         B.SC-Yoga & Health

·         MSc-Chemistry

·         MCA Course

·         MCOM Course

·         MSCIT Course

·         MSc-Maths Course

·         MSC-PHYSICS Course

·         MA-English Course

·         MA-Education Course

·         MA-Economics Course

·         MA-Hindi Course

·         PGDCA Course

·         MA-Political Science Course

·         MA-Sociology Course

Career & Jobs

Distance learning may lead to better career and scope if grabbed it seriously and efficiently.

In developing Countries like India, distance education has an enormous scope. It is consistently increasing with the passage of years.

When it comes to employment, students concern about jobs and career scope is automatically raised. Employment opportunities and jobs in India after distance learning is vast.

Many students have illusion about the validity of their degree. They think that they do not get the good job with distance learning as compared if he/she opted regular courses. Students this is not true. Your degree is also valid.

The Distance Education Bureau (DEB) of the UGC in its norms and guidelines has clearly mentioned that distance education courses approved by DEB are valid for the employment and services under the Central Government of India.

Distance learning programs are not only accepted for recruitment at private companies but for government organizations as well. You can also apply at several start-ups if you wish to explore that area of employment. Some of the sectors which hire students who have a distance education degree have been mentioned below. Apart from these, there are countless other sectors of employment for which you will be considered eligible.

·         Architecture

·         Railways

·         Banks

·         Media and Communications

·         Management

·         Marketing

·         Advertising

·         Writing

·         PSUs

·         Finance

·         Software Development

·         Information Technology

·         Human Resources

·         Sales

·         Production

·         SEO Optimisation

·         Call Centres

·         Product Design

·         Counselling

·         Public Relations

Wrapping Up

Remote education is certainly not a magic bullet and there will always be a place for in-class learning. At the same time, distance learning still has a lot of untapped potential to reach students where they are and connect educators and learners in new ways. From increased flexibility to new learning styles, it seems that the future of learning will be as diverse in time and place as it will be in thought.

With the economic uncertainties, combined with rising unemployment, it’s important to think about how you can stand out in a cutthroat job market. Taking up a new vocational course by distance learning will allow you to display self-motivation and attain new skills with negligible impact on your existing lifestyle, which will prove advantageous in the search for your next professional move.