The Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD), now renamed as the Ministry of Education, has recently launched the India Report on Digital Education, 2020. Compiled by the digital education division of the MHRD in consultation with state and union territory education departments, this report focuses on innovative methods adopted to ensure accessible and inclusive education during the Covid-19 pandemic.
MHRD’s Innovative Approach During Covid-19 Pandemic
The MHRD has taken several measures to reduce learning gaps brought on by the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. The report outlines various initiatives implemented to assist students, teachers, and scholars in their educational pursuits. These include the DIKSHA platform, the Swayam Prabha TV Channel, On Air – Shiksha Vani program, e-PathShala, and telecasts through TV channels. The ministry has also released PRAGYATA, a set of guidelines on digital education.
State-Led Initiatives For Digital Education
States and Union Territories have also played a crucial part in providing digital education to students. Notable programs include Rajasthan’s Social Media Interface for Learning Engagement (SMILE), Project Home Classes in Jammu, Chhattisgarh’s Padhai Tunhar Duvaar (Education at your doorstep), Bihar’s Unnayan Initiatives, NCT of Delhi’s Mission Buniyaad, and Kerala’s own educational TV channel (KITE VICTERS). In Meghalaya, an E-scholar portal along with free online courses for teachers were provided.
Integration of Social Media and Technology in Digital Education
Several states and union territories used social media tools and technology to connect and engage with students. Tools such as WhatsApp Groups, YouTube channels, and Google Meet were employed for conducting online classes. Special efforts were made in areas with poor internet connectivity and electricity, like Lakshadweep, Nagaland, Jammu & Kashmir, where tablets, DVDs, pendrives, equipped with e-contents, and textbooks were distributed to students at their doorsteps.
Mental Well-being Amid the Pandemic
The mental well-being of children was also prioritized during this challenging period. For instance, Delhi conducted happiness classes. On a national level, MHRD launched the ‘Manodarpan’ initiative aimed at providing psychosocial support to students, family members, and teachers for their mental health and well-being amid the Covid-19 crisis.
The Future of Digital Education in India
The report echoes the importance of cross-learning, adapting, and adopting best practices across the country. As education shifts towards a combination of online and offline modes, the primary objective remains to ensure that no student is left behind due to lack of access to quality education.