Leveraging digital platforms for accessible education in schools: A blended learning approach

In the current era of digitalization, the process of incorporating digital technologies into the educational system to improve its quality and make it more inclusive, accessible, and economical is known as the ‘digital transformation of education’. As smartphone adoption and internet connectivity have increased quickly, digital education platforms have become essential resources for democratizing access to education. As mentioned in the NEP 2020, “The recent rise in epidemics and pandemics necessitates that we are ready with alternative modes of quality education whenever and wherever traditional and in-person modes of education are not possible. In this regard, the National Education Policy 2020 recognizes the importance of leveraging the advantages of technology while acknowledging its potential risks and dangers”. This paper explores various literature that focuses on the integration of digital platforms into traditional school education through a blended learning approach, with the goal of enhancing accessibility, inclusivity, quality and achievement in education. It studies the role of digital platforms in complementing classroom teaching and how blended learning can cater to diverse learning needs and styles. It also looks at addressing challenges like digital infrastructure, teacher readiness, and the digital divide. This topic will contribute to the discussions regarding the vision of NEP 2020 for leveraging digital platforms to make the best modern education accessible to all without forgetting the importance of traditional teaching methods. In order to establish more accessible, inclusive, and sustainable educational systems in schools, the report also offers strategic recommendations for the effective adoption of blended learning.