‘Digital open-distance learning can democratise higher education’

Digital technologies, open educational resources and innovative learning models can transform open and distance learning into a powerful tool for democratising higher education, Director, Commonwealth Educational Media Centre for Asia (CEMCA), Basheerhamad Shadrach, said.

Delivering the keynote lecture on ‘BRAOU and the promise of democratised education’ at Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Open University’s 45th Foundation Day celebrations on Friday, he said asynchronous digital learning allows students to learn at their own time, pace and language. Farmers, homemakers and working professionals could pursue education alongside their daily responsibilities, he said.

Mr. Shadrach noted that AI-driven personalised learning was making education more adaptive and learner-centric. Digital ODL could help institutions expand access, reduce costs and continuously update course content. He said BRAOU’s TV broadcasts, Hi-BRAOU Digital Radio, iBooks and integrated DigiLibrary offered a multi-channel approach to reach learners online and offline.

Vice-Chancellor Ghanta Chakrapani said that BRAOU was transforming into a full-fledged digital and online university by embracing technology and AI, while retaining its focus on inclusiveness, accessibility and quality.