Convergence Scheme of Open & Distance Learning (ODL) and Conventional Systems

Indira Gandhi National Open University Delhi, has come up with a unique concept of Convergence Scheme of Open and Distance Learning with conventional university system utilizing the idling time of physical facilities like class room, laboratory, libraries, computer center etc. besides using the capabilities and services of large number of qualified teachers beyond working hours of the Institutions.

Features of Conventional System of Learning

It is nothing but doing an under-graduate or post-graduate program on regular basis in a college or university. Here, the teaching-learning process will take the following course:

• Enroll the individual as a regular student in a recognized college or university.
• Provide regular classes scheduled by the respective recognized college or university.
• Giving assignments and case studies to the students.
• Preparation and conduction of examinations by the college or university.
• Provide the degree certificate from the recognized university where they pursue their education.

Features of Open & Distance Learning

Some of the special features of the Open and Distance Education System currently practiced by IGNOU are:

• Relaxed entry requirements
• Provision of equal opportunity of admission to people from all over the country
• Provision of learning at one's own pace, place and time
• Cost-effective and cost-efficient educational operations
• Multi-media approach in the preparation of course packages
• Self-instructional Printed and Audio/Video course materials
• Network of student support services throughout the country
• Face-to-face Counseling and Tele-counseling
• Continuous evaluation through assignments
• Provision of terminal examination two times a year
• Interactive Satellite Aided Communication Network (Teleconferencing).
• Interactive Radio Counselling

Convergence of Open & Distance Learning (ODL) and Conventional Systems

A Convergence between the conventional University system and Open & Distance Learning (ODL) system through enhanced and optimal utilization of the physical infrastructure, intellectual and knowledge resources in the colleges/institutions is the unique feature of this scheme.

Under this scheme IGNOU has chosen a large number of partner institutions in different places who fulfills all the criteria as set by IGNOU like infrastructure, lab facilities, teaching faculty. Dayananda Sagar Global Education, Bangalore has been chosen as a partner institution under this Scheme (PI No. DSG 5678)

Benefits to ODL Students:

• ODL students will get benefits of face-to-face teaching from experienced college teachers.
• They will get laboratories & library facility of the institutions, which will improve their intellectual
  capability.
• They will be able to score better marks because of better understanding of the concept.
• They will get good quality instruction materials from IGNOU and will also get the benefit of CDs and video.

About Indira Gandhi National Open University

The Indira Gandhi National Open University was established by an Act of Parliament in 1985 to achieve the following objectives:

• Democratizing higher education by taking education to the doorsteps of the students.
• Providing access to high quality education to all those who seek it, irrespective of age, region, or formal qualifications.
• Offering need-based academic programmes by giving professional and vocational orientation to the courses.
• Promoting and developing distance education in India.
• Setting and maintaining standards in distance education in the country as an apex body for the
  purpose.