Over the past few years, teaching-learning through computer-mediated technologies has been on the rise. In India, since the outbreak of COVID-19, learning institutions have shifted from face-to-face instruction, and online coaching has proved to be a boon.
This article will take the time to look at the various advantages of learning at universities in India, as well as how these opportunities are changing the face of education.
Cost Savings
Free is common when it comes to education; therefore, one of the major benefits of online education is its cost. In a survey, 60% of students in India pointed out their perception of the various benefits of online learning, wherein the major ones include cost savings.
This is even more significant in a country where issues of finance are a major challenge, which makes it hard for one to go to university.
Online universities do away with traveling costs, accommodation costs, and other costs associated with traditional universities; this makes education affordable to a greater number of people.
Key Features:
- Lower tuition fees compared to traditional universities.
- No expenses for commuting, accommodation, or campus facilities.
- Access to digital learning materials, reducing textbook costs.
Flexibility and Convenience
Distance learning universities provide immense flexibility, and students can conduct their learning from the comfort of their homes. This feature is particularly advantageous to students, workers, families, and anyone who has other responsibilities to attend to.
It also means that there are course handouts, videos, and assignments that can be viewed at any time that suits the student’s busy schedule.
Key Features:
- Study from anywhere, anytime.
- No need to relocate for higher education.
- Access to recorded lectures and materials 24/7.
Online education is a new trend in the education sector across the whole world. Many students are choosing an Online Master’s Degree Course over traditional offline Master’s Degree.
Access to a Wide Range of Courses and Specialisations
Online universities then help students be in proximity to many courses/specializations that may be offered outside the traditional universities nearby.
Business and technology, arts and social sciences, and many more enable students to create curriculums around the globe based on their career interests.
This wide choice allows the students to take the specialties or subjects of their choice or even areas of interest in current employment trends.
Key Features:
- Wide variety of courses across multiple disciplines.
- Specializations are not commonly available in traditional universities.
- Access to internationally recognised courses and collaborations.
Skill Development for the Modern Job Market
Currently, India’s employment market is witnessing a growing need for tech-savvy and digitally skilled graduates. Online education also introduces students to the importance of using technology skills and the ability to use technology on different platforms and tools.
Such skills are appreciated at the workplace, especially as new widespread tendencies such as teleworking and distant collaboration are being implemented.
The current expansion rate of the internet and the need for the online education market, which is expected to rise by USD 2.28 billion by 2026, is also fuelled by the demand for acquiring skills and preparing for employment.
Key Features:
- Development of essential digital and technical skills.
- Improved time management and self-discipline.
- Increased readiness for remote work and digital collaboration.
E-learning has become a game changer for individuals who opt for higher studies. Online B.Ed. programs are modern and flexible options for obtaining teaching qualifications without any restrictions of traditional classroom settings.
Personalised Learning Experience
Flexible learning delivery systems also employ state-of-the-art technologies like adaptive learning, which customize the learning process for the student.
These systems help change the pace and type of lessons delivered according to the smart and problematic areas that the student has in a bid to enhance learning.
It also helps reach out to more students and attend to each one of them individually, irrespective of the online classroom setting.
Key Features:
- Customised learning paths based on student progress.
- Individual feedback and tailored assessments.
- Access to additional learning resources to address personal needs.
Global Exposure and Networking Opportunities
Internet-based universities offer students from other parts of India and international students the opportunity to interact and work together.
The students get to interact with their counterparts from different cultures and various professions, hence enhancing their aura of globalization.
It also assists in establishing working relations that may come in handy, especially in the workplace as they pursue their careers.
Key Features:
- Interaction with a diverse global student body.
- Collaborative projects with international peers.
- Networking opportunities with professionals and educators worldwide.
Career Advancement and Employment Opportunities
With many organizations implementing their digital strategies, the market has called for graduates with online education backgrounds.
Students need to learn skills that are relevant to today’s market, and this is where online universities assist in developing their skills in relevant fields such as cloud computing, data analysis, and digital marketing, among others.
Also, the online programs do not restrict the students from acquiring work experience or internships while undertaking their studies, which indeed makes them employable.
Key Features:
- Focus on industry-relevant skills.
- Opportunity to gain work experience while studying.
- Enhanced employability in emerging fields like technology and digital industries.
To wrap it up
In response to the efforts to stop the spread of the coronavirus, the education system has started its journey to transform into new avenues, with online learning becoming the main way of teaching.
Universities and schools are moving to online platforms like Edukyu to keep up with their courses.
The benefits of studying at an online university in India are numerous and diverse. These are in line with the growing demand for the online education market in India and are driven by factors such as skill development, employment opportunities, and the emergence of cloud computing.
Online universities offer a valuable and accessible pathway for students to achieve their academic and career goals.
