Distance Education in India

Abstract

In this article, Professor Natarajan assesses the value and feasibility of distance education in degree-level and continuing education programmes in engineering and technology. Focusing on its applicability in India, he reviews experiences in other countries, describes the particular problems faced by developing countries, and summarizes the special characteristics which professional engineers need. He then sets out strengths and weaknesses of the single and dual modes of distance education, and considers its compatibility with continuing engineering education. Finally, Professor Natarajan discusses a range of current issues relating to engineering and distance education and looks at recent initiatives.

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References

Mandke

V.V.

‘Learning of science and technology through the distance mode: opportunity for continuing education at work place’, to be published in International Journal of Engineering Education.

Ibid.

COMLEARN (News publication of the Commonwealth of Learning), Vol 3, No 1, April 1992, p 6.

Natarajan

‘The challenge of continuing engineering education’, Indian Journal of Technical Education, Vol 9 No 2 1986, pp 1–12.

Chandrakant

L.S.

Rao

K. Seetharama

Ramakrishnan

Natarajan

‘How Indian industry perceives engineering curricula in relation to job requirements’, to be published in International Journal of Engineering Education.

Abrioux

D.A.M.X.

, ‘Distance teaching at Athabasca University’, paper presented at UGC (New Delhi)–Commonwealth of Learning (Vancouver) Symposium on Reforms in Higher Education, New Delhi, 17–21 August 1992.

Croft

‘Single or dual mode: challenges and choices for the future of education’, paper presented at Commonwealth of Learning Symposium on Reforms in Higher Education, New Delhi, 17–21 August 1992.

Knapper

‘The Course-in-a-Box’: distance education at the University of Waterloo’, paper presented at Commonwealth of Learning Symposium on Reforms in Higher Education, New Delhi, 17–21 August 1992.

Ibid.

10.

Ibid.