Distance Education Learning The Past Drawbacks and the New Possibilities

A decade back, distance education was not viewed as a matter of choice. Distance learning courses were more often associated with the last and the only option scenario, where in a denied admission or lack of affordability for a regular course saw this mode of education as the only option. This was because there was the distance factor between the student and the university, which did not guarantee prompt communication, guidance or resources, if required by the student by any time. Add to that, the out-dated syllabus of most of the distance learning courses did not deliver job-readiness. There was a degree at the end of it all, but the worth of it was seldom recognised by the job-industry. In short, those who just wanted an additional qualification to their profile drove distance education. But with globalization, the technology boom and the growing Indian populace, distance education learning has been through a period of Renaissance. There are opportunities everywhere as industry players perform on the global platform. The mass job-potential spells out greater degree of specialization and higher levels of competencies to perform and succeed. The industry doesnt seek degree-holders alone but professionals with job-ready skills, exacting less investment for training or induction. Additionally, with the increasing awareness amongst the mass and the greater exposure to the world outside, education too has assumed a new significance. Higher education is not only viewed as the means for better economic power for the individual or its family but also as ones in-disposable asset, which will last a lifetime. So continuing education for the professional, the student and the value-seeker is the seen as the route to their desired goals. Distance education learning has taken to an altogether new plane to satisfy the needs of different segments of people in the society. Working professionals can aspire for better job prospects, while they learn and earn. Their work experience along with academic knowledge doubles career progress, in terms of better designation and remuneration. Students, who are ready to kick-start their career find distance learning programs to be of good value as certifications from reputable universities are treated equivalent to campus degrees. Distance education is also a fill-gap for many- the housewife, or the premature job-starter who had to discontinue studies for various reasons/commitments. Technology and the online platform have given a boost to these programs, with online distance learning catching up with the student-mass. As India gears up to become the next Economic super power, higher education- to the 400 million and odd student populace, is one of the key milestones to be reached. Accounting only for 11% GER in higher education, Indias mass-education dream can be realized only through quality distance learning universities.

Standing out as an emblem of quality in the Indian distance Education space, is UGC and DEC-recognized SMU-DE. Offering more than 70 courses across 11 disciplines, the university is geared up to reach the mass with quality and affordable programs. With over 725+centers spread across 310 towns, SMU-DEs interface with its students is cemented further through its technology platform- EduNxt, Ranked number 1 by students in nation-wide survey of DE institutes; SMU-DE is the new potential for better value of education.