The Indian Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) recently introduced new guidelines regarding digital education, entitled ‘PRAGYATA’. Developed by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), these guidelines act as advisory points that state governments can choose to adopt and modify according to local needs.
The Eight-Step Guide to Digital Learning
PRAGYATA outlines an eight-step procedure for online education: Plan, Review, Arrange, Guide, Yak (talk), Assign, Track, and Appreciate.
Digital Access Across India Amidst Covid-19 Pandemic
With over 25 crore students out of school since mid-March 2020 due to Covid-19, MHRD considers various types of household in terms of their access to digital resources. These households vary from ones having computers or smartphones with 4G internet access, to those with only a basic mobile phone with FM radio, or even no communication devices at all.
The Novel Approach to Digital Classrooms: Not Simply a Virtual Replica
The guidelines explain that digital classrooms should not merely recreate traditional Face-to-Face classrooms over the internet.
The Need for Preliminary Surveys of Digital Infrastructure
Before deciding on the teaching method, schools are recommended to survey the digital infrastructure available to teachers and students, along with considering the levels of parental involvement. The onus is also on schools to provide access to students lacking digital infrastructure.
Recommended Screen Time for Different Student Levels
For kindergarten, nursery, and pre-school students, a maximum screen time of 30 minutes per day is suggested. For Classes 1-8, live online classes should not exceed 1.5 hours per day, and for Classes 9-12, the screen time should not exceed 3 hours.
Synchronous and Asynchronous Learning
The guidelines propose both synchronous learning, which is real-time teaching, and asynchronous learning, that allows students to access education on their own time, utilizing different mediums like downloadable lessons, radio and TV programs, text messages and social media platforms such as Whatsapp.
Addressing Health Concerns with Digital Technology
An increased use of digital gadgets may lead to severe health problems. The guidelines suggest designing age-appropriate schedules to limit exposure and prevent overuse.
Cyber Safety and Ethical Practices
The PRAGYATA guidelines also emphasize the importance of maintaining cyber safety and ethical practices while using digital resources for education.
Convergence with Government Initiatives
The guidelines encourage alignment with government initiatives on digital education such as SWAYAM Prabha, SWAYAM, DIKSHA, Radio Vahini, and Shiksha Vaani.
About NCERT
Established in 1961, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) is an autonomous organization of the Government of India. It aims at improving the school education system through research, training, policy formulation, and curriculum development. Its headquarters are located in New Delhi.