Challenges and opportunities in geoscience education in open and distance learning: Indian scenario

This paper reviews geoscience programmes being offered in India and discusses the challenges and opportunities in geoscience education in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode. The importance of geoscience education and literacy is rising rapidly because of the realization of the fact that how our wellbeing and survival is dependent on earth system and resources. It is increasingly being realized that conventional educational methods of the past and present have served us well but their limitations are becoming more apparent and have not been able to cater to the rising demands. In order to bridge this gap between the demand and supply, the Open and Distance Learning System has upheld to be a feasible option. There are large number of institutes and universities offering varieties of science programmes in distance mode but only a few in geosciences. In India, Mega Universities like IGNOU are at an advantageous position for offering geoscience education because of nation wide reach and flexibility. The use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has greatly enhanced the teaching as well as learning experiences. Unlike other programmes, geoscience requires a quite different approach to deliver effectively at a distance. Laboratories serve as an integral part of any science curriculum and geoscience is no exception. Geoscience needs a strong laboratory module including field work component and its real delivery is important to support and withstand learner's interest. In near future, developing countries including India is expected to witness increased demand for highly skilled geoscientists to help identify and develop oil, gas and mineral resources, as well as to help recognize natural and man-made environmental hazards.