reader’s corner
Exploring Digitised Content yukti pahwa
In today’s world when most of us our running after the most recent information in any subject matter, what is required by any one of us is content. In education sector, content is not only the most sought but also required to fulfill conditions of access, equity and quality. This is where digitsation of content becomes the saviour. eContent, be it in school education or higher education, if appropriate, can lead to great achievements. Quality of the econtent provides with correct information access and supports use of search engines in most effective way. Content whether digitised or otherwise, needless to say has to suit the target audience. It should, however, be remembered that mere digitising of the print content doesn’t mean it is more useful. In fact the purpose of using econtent arises when something different from print medium is to be implemented, that guarantees better comprehension and application by the receivers, which in most cases are the students. Open Sources In addition to the e-content service providers’ services, the educational institutions at times also refer to open source e-content for deployment amongst students. But open source econtent risks lacking quality; although it offers flexibility, can be accessed quickly and is cost effective. Current Scenario eContent in education in India, is usually associated with the information that is available in digitised form on websites, internet, e-version of print content, TV, Radio, CD/DVD, memory sticks, films and mobile phones. Private sector and the companies that invest in education sector as education service providers are sought for most of the relevant e-content that they prepare with years of expertise, research and knowledge of the given sector – K-12 or Higher Education. 18
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They cater not only to the education system but also to the society by providing education solutions in the era where India is facing shortage of cost effective infrastructure, trained and qualified teachers, low Gross Enrollment Ratio, high drop-out rates and lack of dissemination of education to large population of children in the country. eContent supports not only education but also ‘edutainment’ that includes both education and entertainment.
eContent when facilitated appropriately, along with quality can provide with: • • • • •
Diverse ways of comprehending concepts, Cost effectiveness, Inclusive of global approaches, Introduce various methodologies of learning, and Reach more students in less time.
eContent encourages reduction of gap between poorly informed and digitally advanced groups of students, when disseminated properly. India as a nation is not only supportive of formulation of e-content abroad but is also receptive of the successful implementation of the same in developed or other developing countries. This is building a momentum in the country to gain expertise in developing, disseminating and maintaining quality e-content for educational institutions. Government is no less in providing its support to gaining understanding and use of e-content. For instance, Department of Information Technology, Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, Government of India; and Minstry of Human Resource Development, Government of India have been active in providing to e-content at large to the educational institutions. eContent is the future! It is hard to stop it from gaining its well deserved space in Indian schools and higher education institutions. Therefore, the focus is rightly set on providing it within the frameworks of quality, access and equity.