E-Learning in India
The Evolution of E-Learning In India – Online Learning Market
E-learning is a learning system based on utilizing electronic technologies to access formalized teaching and educational curriculum.
E-learning is a learning system based on utilizing electronic technologies to access formalized teaching and educational curriculum.
E-learning can also be defined as a network that enables the transfer of knowledge and skills outside a traditional classroom to a large number of recipients at different times or at the same time.
Also, it refers to a program, course or degree that is completely delivered online. Among the many terms that are used to describe e-learning include online learning, internet learning or even distance education.
E-learning has come a long way as it was not earlier accepted wholeheartedly because this system lacked the human element that is required in learning.
Conversely, thanks to the advancement in learning systems and rapid progress in technology, it has now been embraced by the masses globally.
Interesting Facts About e-learning In India
The following are interesting facts about internet learning in India that prove this market is growing at an exponential rate.
E-learning in India is big and according to the latest report internet learning comes second after eCommerce in the online industry.
- In 2016 the Indian e-learning market was worth $247 and was expected to grow to about $1.97 by 2021. A compound annual growth rate of 52%.
- In 2016 an estimated 1.6 million users enrolled for various e-learning courses, the number is expected to grow to about 9.6 million by the end of 2021.
- Online education is being preferred because it is cost-effective when compared to classroom education. There is a 175% increase in the cost of formal education which makes it costly.
- Half the population of India lies in between 15-40 age group with low income thus a good market for internet learning. Also, the acceptability of the online industry is high among the younger demographic.
The above facts show the future potential of e-learning in India and what it has in store for future generations.
Influencing The growth of E-learning In India
The following are the key drivers that are responsible for the growth of online education in India.
1.Growth in internet and smartphone
There are approximately 730 million internet users and this large number offers high accessibility to enroll for distance learning. The young demographic of between 15-40 years are the most active smartphones and internet users thus are looking to fulfill their educational requirements via e-learning.
2.Digital friendly government policies
Digital India and Skill India are among the initiatives launched by the government to help spread digital literacy as well as to create a knowledge-based society in India. Also, the government has put in efforts to establish digital infrastructure by aiming to expand connectivity and to provide a faster network.
3.Demand among working professionals and job-seekers
With a high unemployment rate, both working professionals and job seekers are keen to enhance their viability in the job market through career advancement courses. Online career courses are beneficial to these groups of people as they help them to remain industry-relevant, get promotions, switch jobs or even negotiate for better pay.
4.The cost of online education is low
The e-learning system does not require physical infrastructure or incurring administrative costs. Thus the cost savings are passed down to the users. The 175% rise in the traditional education system has made it to be costly for all the levels is primary, secondary and tertiary levels.
5.Traditional education unable to fulfill the additional capacity
To help ease the burden on traditional education that is not equipped to meet the additional capacity is e-learning. Online education can help supplement the conventional model and enable the government to raise its current gross enrolment.
Advantages of Online Learning
Efficient.
You can learn whatever you want because online learning provides a great variety of online courses and programs to choose from. By students not being bound by physical class sessions, it increases their productivity and it is more efficient.
Learning from home.
E-learning gives students the chance to learn from home or from anywhere at any time. This has made it possible for professionals to pursue new courses without losing their jobs since they can learn at weekends or in their free time. Learning from home comes with great comfort and this is convenient for learners.
Affordable.
When compared to doing regular on-campus degree e-learning is way cost-effective. It helps students to get their degree or programs without having to spend a fortune on college education. With eLearning, there are minimal costs with education thus enabling a student to save money and its tuition fee is cost-effective as well.
Flexible.
We are all born different and everyone learns at their own pace. For many students, it is difficult to follow the lessons taught in class and this possesses a serious disadvantage to traditional education. However, with e-learning, all the course materials are provided beforehand and students can learn at their own pace at their preferred time.
Easy Access.
Since e-learning only requires a smartphone or laptop with an enabled internet connection you can easily access your online course. With e-learning, there are low restrictions to learning and one can study to their level best.
The future of e-learning is promising, that is why established institutions offer blended learning to increase their reach to learners. This is a great way to pave the way for e-learning for the next generations.
Also, e-learning helps to close the education inequality because there are no physical presences thus anyone can access education without facing discrimination for their gender, age, colour or religion.
Final Thoughts on E-learning In India
There are still many challenges facing e-learning in India, as we continue to grow things will become better with time and we will witness future trends too. Though it is unlikely that e-learning will replace the traditional education system but both systems will work together towards a common goal.
On my e-learning website you’ll get more insights. In addition, I’ll offer you a 40% discount on tution fee for undergraduate courses.
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About the Author
Jens Ischebeck is an Africa focused distance education specialist. He helps young people to get the good education they deserve by using online courses and even earning an online degree.