Integrated Open and Distance Learning (ODL) through ICT for Sustainable Development at Uttarakhand Open University

Integrated Open and Distance Learning (ODL) through ICT for Sustainable Development at Uttarakhand Open University

New Delhi, April 09, 2018: As per the strategic plan (2015-2021) of COL-CEMCA and its mandate of Learning for Sustainable Development, the Higher Education Initiative at CEMCA has developed an integrated model to address the challenges of higher education in this current dynamic environment and is moving towards working with partners in a more in-depth approach. In this regard, CEMCA supporting Uttarakhand Open University (UOU), Haldwani for Project titled “Integrated Open and Distance Learning (ODL) through ICT at UOU for Sustainable Development”. Under this project the Uttarakhand Open University designed, developed and hosted a web interface along with Moodle LMS including app customization for content delivery and learner support including career counseling. To provide better learning opportunity seven need based courses viz. Introduction to Information Technology, Tools for Office Automation, Introduction to DTP, Fundamentals of Information Security, Cyber Security Techniques, Cyber Attacks and Counter Measures User Perspective, Information System were prepared in the text as well as video format. The services of the 10 experts from universities, research unities, defence units etc. were utilized for the content development and recording video lectures. The courses are hosted on the elearning portal of Uttarakhand Open University: http://elearning.uou.ac.in/course/ and the video lectures are also available in the Youtube channel of the University under the name UOULIVE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3xYwhaxui3IVqMN54DDVnw . On date 41 video lectures are recorded and uploaded and 3 courses with consists of 36 modules are available in the elearning portal. The online course on “Introduction to Information Technology” was offered from 08-12 April, 2018. Around 3328 learners enrolled for the course out of which 400 learners participated in the online counseling sessions. Seven online facilitators’ viz. Prof. Durgesh Pant, Dr. Jeetendra Pande, Group Captain Ashok Kumar, Mr. Ashutosh Bahuguna, Mr. Harsh Vardhan Pant, Ms. Priyanka Tewari, Dr. Gopal Dutt were available for the online counseling between 11 to 12 am. Student Support Services: To retain the students and provide student support services, the SMS and emails are sent via email credit system.