The Hindu Business Line : Harbinger of mass education?

With the successful launching of the geosynchronous satellite EDUSAT from the spaceport at Sriharikota, India is set to revolutionise distance education. From a television studio, a teacher can teach any subject, and if schools/colleges have reception facilities, they can simultaneously listen to him.

Vikram Sarabhai envisaged such applications of space technology for mass education, particularly for the rural areas, where there is a lack of trained teachers. Using satellite broadcasts, a single teacher can reach tens of thousands of students across the country. The students can also seek clarifications.

The success of the programme, however, will depend on the quality of the material telecast. Already, there are a lot of educational broadcasts and one is not sure of their impact. Many of the programmes are stereotyped and do not keep the audience interest alive for more than a few minutes. At best, the satellite broadcasts can only supplement conventional teaching methods.

In the euphoria generated, one hopes that educationists do not forget the importance of individual classroom education. In the final analysis, nothing can replace a good live lecture.

V. S. Venkatavaradan

Salem

Letters to the editor and contributions can be sent by e-mail to: bleditor@thehindu.co.in

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