Online learning is a great equalizer?

We need to proceed with a cautious regarding the mindset of technology. The world’s educational systems need more funding and better online providers.  Every child--regardless of socioeconomic status, ability or geography--should have equal access to a quality education. Education is one of the fundamental rights in India. But I am not sure that Indian government can provide that for all children across the country.

The proponents of online education claim that online learning is a great equalizer. It can reach everyone despite what their social, economic, religious, ethnic or physical or mental differences are. The e-learning  gives all students the same opportunity to reach their full potential. But the question arises if all states of India, its schools and colleges, homes cyber café and the libraries are equipped with equal access to technology.

The computers have reached in rural areas but what  is the number? How many computers and internet connections can be located in a remote village of Bihar. Thus, we need more resources in order to make online education everyone’s cup of tea. 

Week 1 Excerpt

Today, I completed my work for the week one. This was an interesting and busy week. I was little concerned about a few things. The first one was being finishing work in time. I kept the deadline/last day of submission of everything on Saturday so that I still have a reserved day in case I lag behind. But thankfully, I could finish in time. I might have finished a  earlier but, then, you always have to wait for people to post their responses or comment. After reading that, one has to think and synthesis and write about it. The other thing was formation of teams. But, I found a great team to work with. I believe that I’ll learn to manage and organize my work in a better way as I move on. With a small kid, whole household work, grocery, bills and  long list of other work keeps me running like a chicken whole day. I have to be more organized and that’s the solution-I know! But, I enjoyed a lot and sure will in future in this program.

I really liked the idea of playing idea of ‘devil’s advocate’. It helps in thinking critically and beyond the ideas presented in the write ups. That’s a good brainstorming. It’s been a few years that I did any formal training or program, although, I did a couple of online certificates. But this program is really different. It pushes you to think.

The reading material - Writing Advice for Today's Online University Students, is very informative. I really liked the idea ‘Students should strive for precision and impact in their papers.’ That’s what, I shall keep in mind while I move on in this program.

The reading-Theory and Practice of Online Learning (TPOL): Ch. 15 -- Supporting the Online Learner, helped me understanding the online learning environment essentials. While I was reading, I compared  that I didn’t get what I was supposed to in my previous online courses. There wasn’t a strong academic and tutorial support. I don’t to mention the name of the course and institute.

I like writing journal. I can write on any topic I wish to or something I really feel about. Moreover, as mentioned in ‘Writing Advice for Today's Online University Students’, it enhances the critical thinking and gives a new perspective to things.