Virtual schooling has been on the rise ever since technology made its way into our homes.
The pandemic and the ensuing lockdowns only accelerated the need to adopt online virtual learning. It was during the COVID-19 pandemic that countries were forced to explore new models of delivering education.
Come to think of it, the coronavirus pandemic has been responsible for faster technology adoption after the disruption of the existing education system. Virtual online classes continued education when schools were shut down. For the first time, countries were forced to analyse the global reach of remote learning policies.
In the wake of the pandemic, what is emerging as the ‘new normal’ is exploring virtual schooling as an option for educating the 1.4 billion population.
If we look deeper, we may realise that we are on the cusp of greatness if we go on to set up some of the best virtual schools.
The rise of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), technology-savvy Gen Z, and the reach of smartphones among the teeming millions will act as a catalyst for setting up online virtual schools.
According to Deloitte, by 2026, India will have 1 billion smartphone users! A little push in the direction of setting up an online virtual academy can help the country realise a demographic dividend. The Union Government is also exploring the option of virtual schools in India rather than a traditional brick-and-mortar structure to impart education.
Virtual schooling: An investment in the human capital of the country
Consider for a moment how massive the reach of online education can be if those living in remote regions sign up for virtual classes. Online education is flexible and allows people of different age groups and calibres to learn at their pace. It is so revolutionary that it has brought classroom sessions to our homes.
Looking at the list of virtual schools, a few stand out for superb academics, excellent faculty and up-to-date curriculum. 21K School is one such online study platform that takes classroom education to all the corners of the country. By offering technology-driven solutions, it is making education truly democratic and accessible, regardless of constraints of geography or finances.
Leveraging technology and innovation is bound to be the next chapter in Indian education. It will not only transform the society but lead to better learning outcomes and put India at the centre of the world.
Advantages of virtual school
The rise of virtual K-12 schools has its own set of advantages. Students can now access great quality educational content and apply for an online school. They can study anytime, anywhere, from the comfort of their homes.
The advantages of online school and homeschooling online are many. Students can record lectures and take self-assessments online. At the same time, they are empowered enough to track their daily progress, revisit a lesson and take one-on-one guidance from expert tutors.
21K School curriculum is designed for the 21st-century learner, focusing on developing skills such as critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. And because the students are learning online, they can get a head start on their future by taking courses that interest them and fit their schedules.
Role of online virtual learning in upskilling the workforce
Digital education will significantly impact once it becomes more centric in people’s lives. India is attracting the eyeballs of major EdTech investors. Many startups are taking funds from global investors who are watching the online learning space.
There is a need to maximise the reach, which will be a huge catalyst once people start upskilling themselves to cater to the global market. Many have already realised that to survive in a global economy, there is a need to re-skill and upskill constantly.
Technology alone can solve the many challenges associated with costs, access to education and quality of learning. Tutors already realise the benefits of virtual classes. They teach more efficiently and get instant feedback from students in just a few seconds. It is now easy for them to go the extra mile in helping the students from the comfort of their homes.
Virtual Schooling in India
India is currently witnessing the e-learning boom. Online learning is the only option for many rural and urban students because of which policymakers are keen on setting up an online virtual academy. Besides offering reliable and affordable ways to learn, it will also lay the seeds for a knowledge economy.
There is a lot that can be done to improve virtual coaching platforms! Torchbearers like 21K School have risen due to the sheer quality of their teaching force. E-learning has become essential for taking education forward. By harnessing the power of technology, there is an enormous opportunity to upskill the population of 1.4 billion. It can even give dropouts a chance to take the reign of their education once again.
All in all, virtual schooling is here to stay. It is time to gear up to virtually school the population of 1.4 billion. Now is the time to bring learning alive!
