Distance Learning through ICT: Benefits and Challenges

Abstract

In accordance with the directions of the Central Government, UGC is the sole regulating body in the country for distance education and it has been granting approval to the institutes to offer courses under certain guidelines. In this respect the role of ICT can not be ignored. More so for those who are unable to study in universities of their choices. In today’s word we must consider the objectives of education, the kind of technology infrastructure involved and facilitating policies to attain educational goal. Today India is  the second largest market for e-learning after the US. ICT  includes any communication device or application, encompassing: radio, television, cellular phones, computer, and network hardware and software, satellite systems etc. Learning through ICT can be classified in three main categories i.e. e’learning, Blended Learning, and Distance Learning. Notable initiatives towards this have been initiated in India. Apart from benefits its implementation is costly and integration into teaching is still in its infancy.