Page 252 - DEDU501_DEVELOPMENT_OF_EDUCATION_SYSTEM_ENGLISH

Development of Education System

Notes 26.1.4 Main Objectives of Distance Education
1. To provide a suitable alternative path to wider opportunities in education and especially
higher education.
2. To provide an efficient and less expensive system of education.
3. To provide opportunities to students who had to discontinue their formal education on
account of various circumstance.
4. To cater to the educational needs to people residing in geographically remote areas.
5. To provide for educational opportunities to students who had to discontinue studies
because of lack of aptitude and motivation but who may later on become motivated, etc.
26.1.5 Need and Importance of Distance Education
The concept of distance learning has emerged in various advanced countries of the world. The
following points highlight the need and importance of distance education.
1. Explosion of knowledge: There is explosion of knowledge because of rapid scientific
and technological developments. The formal system of education on account of its rigidity
and high cost, finds is difficult to incorporate new changes speedily as desired.
2. Population Explosion: Unprecedented growth rate of population has resulted in the
corresponding increase in students. The formal education system serves a selected and
limited number of students.
3. Varied Needs: Distance learning is needed of satisfy the varied needs of varied students.
4. Earning while Learning: Distance education is especially needed for those who want to
learn while learning.
5. Desire to Improve Qualifications: There are many people who want to improve their
education qualification while they are in jobs. Distance learning provides opportunities
to such people to improve their qualifications.
26.1.6 Merits and Limitations of Distance Education
Merits and Salient Features of Distance Education
1. It fulfills the needs of various categories of persons who are unable to make use of the
formal system of education.
2. It is a very flexible educational system which is not limited by time and place restrictions.
3. Under this system a learner can progress at his own speed.
4. Distance education makes higher education accessible to all sections of society.
5. The courses cater to all segments of society.

26.1.7 Limitations of Distance Education
1. The system of distance education has very limited scope for making people aware of
cultural change and social development.
2. The courses become stereotyped in due course.
3. The scope for practical experience is very negligible.
4. Usually the provision for study-centres and book banks is very meagre.
5. The experts do not have the adequate means to ensure whether the students are entirely
satisfied with the material given.

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