Page 41 - Issue 01
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As we advance, most likely, the hybrid model would stay for some more time in
higher education institutions. One can do things online, so certain things
probably will continue in physical space. However, online programs can't ever
replace physical campuses. Students learn from teachers, learn from their
batchmates and seniors through actual interaction. They also learn from students
from other subjects by being present in the library, cafeteria, etc. So, while virtual
teaching may extend the reach of only one source of learning, it compromises on
the advantages of physical campus. Other extracurricular activities are equally
important for the overall development of students; they are also getting
compromised. We should look at an interim arrangement to mitigate the damage
caused by COVID-19 rather than as an ideal system.
On the other hand, risks are involved for those HEIs who won't go with the
flow.COVID-19 has taught us the importance of digital/online systems, flexible
governance and automation. To maintain quality and efficiency, a significant
investment is required to facilitate the digitisation systems in the HEIs.
Jai Mohan Pandit is the Registrar at IGIDR.
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