The pandemic imposes a steep learning curve

Context: Though online instruction will shape education in the future, there is much need to be done to enhance the quality and outreach of online education.

Concerns related to the online mode of education:

• Subject-specific: Courses that need a laboratory or practical component cannot be brought online.
• Digital divide:  In terms of bandwidth and reliable connectivity and unequal access to funding, more pronounced in rural and non-metro cities having low-income groups.
• Impact on academic research: The lockdown has impacted scientific research due to absence of personal interaction and discussions in research supervision. 

• The related economic crisis also has consequences for research funding.

• Poor planning: Online teaching requires an investment of time and resources. 

• Many online classes are poorly executed video versions of regular classroom lectures.

WAY FORWARD: A New pedagogic paradigm.

• Inclusiveness: Loss of human touch is worthy as an opportunity cost of inclusion of millions of people who aspire to lean.
• Enhance the quantity and quality of online higher education to accelerate democratization of knowledge and the wide distribution of learning opportunities.

• For E.g. Massive open online classrooms(MOOCs) like the National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL) and SWAYAM platforms

• Simple Assessment: Instead of proctored examinations focus should be on self-study and experiential learning (“Nai Talim” concept of Gandhiji).
• Role of artificial intelligence: Can be adapted to deliver personalized instruction based on the learning needs for each student especially the differently-abled ones.
• Decentralisation in education: Pedagogic material must be made available in other national languages to extend access and to overcome staff shortages.
• Responsibility of the state: To improve digital infrastructure and to ensure that every student has access to a laptop or smartphone.
• Blended modes of education: Online instruction where possible, and limited contact for laboratory instruction and individual mentoring is need of the hour.