By Pradeep Kaushik
Anywhere” In the 21st century, our world has borne witness to profound transformations – economic shifts, global lockdowns, and the relentless march of technological advancement. Amidst this upheaval, digitalisation has seamlessly woven itself into our daily lives, transcending age boundaries from kindergarteners to adults. Technology, screens, devices, and the internet have become an integral part of our existence, and education has not been left behind. Our educational sector has boldly ventured beyond the confines of the traditional brick-and-mortar classroom.
According to UNESCO, since the outbreak of COVID-19, a staggering 1.37 billion students across 138 countries have been impacted by the closure of schools and universities. Almost 60.2 million dedicated school teachers and university lecturers suddenly found themselves outside the familiar classroom walls. In the face of adversity, this digital revolution has transformed the education sector, ultimately for the better. It has made education more accessible and adaptable in a rapidly changing world.
Our education system has long followed a well-established tradition, but the pandemic has taught us to adapt and evolve. Educators and teachers have displayed remarkable resilience, embracing emerging teaching methodologies and interactive environments. Whether through a 14-inch laptop screen or within the confines of a traditional classroom, the spark of curiosity and the thirst for knowledge continue to thrive under the guidance of great mentors. As we shift our perspective to a more positive view, online learning unveils advantages that were once unimaginable within traditional learning methods.
One of the most promising aspects of online education is its ability to break free from geographical and physical constraints. Students are no longer confined by their location; they can access education from anywhere in the world, allowing them to learn from mentors located miles away. This newfound flexibility empowers students to choose mentors beyond their neighbourhood schools, ensuring a broader and richer educational experience.
Online learning also recognises and respects individual rhythms of productivity. It allows students to set their own pace and offers the flexibility to revisit previous lessons, deepening their understanding through repetition.Beyond the benefits to students, online learning liberates and empowers teachers and mentors. Leveraging technology, it creates an environment that frees up teachers’ time for more meaningful progress tracking. Weekly check-ins with parents replace infrequent meetings, fostering real-time communication between educators and families.
Digital platforms enable educators to closely monitor each student’s progress, identify areas of struggle, and offer targeted support. This personalized approach strengthens the teacher-student bond and ensures that no student is left behind. It empowers students while fostering a collaborative effort toward optimal learning outcomes.
In conclusion, online education does not seek to replace the traditional in-person learning experience but rather aims to enhance it. Recent years have highlighted the importance of in-person interactions and the full scholastic experience. Thus, the future of education lies in a hybrid model, one that artfully combines the best of what technology offers with the invaluable aspects of traditional learning. By embracing online education, we unlock the power of learning anytime, anywhere, and enrich the educational landscape for generations to come.
The author is Chairman of GAV International School. Views are personal.