Planning for Open and Distance Learning in India

Abstract

Improvement in the entrepreneurial capacity of the working population through education and training is a sine qua non for raising productivity-linked earnings and quality of life. The educational development of deprived groups and regions is therefore a matter of serious concern for policy planners, especially in countries like India which have a federal structure and a democratic polity Of the available educational methods, open and distance learning (ODL) is considered to be the cheapest and most accessible, due mainly to its innovative and flexible characteristics that allow appropriate media choices for student-centred approaches to teaching and learning. ODL extends the benefits of new knowledge and technical know-how and is thus a powerful instrument in the equalization of educational opportunities and in broadening the base of human capital formation. Against this background, the performance of ODL in India over the past four decades is reviewed. The author analyses the evidence and demonstrates the extent to which ODL has succeeded in improving access and equity in the provision of services. The factors that help or hinder in extending the reach of education among deprived groups and regions are identified, and the implications for policy planning are discussed. The implementation of the recommended policy measures would contribute to the educational development of disadvantaged groups, raise the overall competence levels and earnings of the working population, improve the quality of life, and reduce disparities. These goals are critical to ensure social harmony, political stability and sustainable development.