In conversation with the Air Vice Marshal (Dr.) Dilip Chandra Agarwal,Vice Chancellor, Sikkim Manipal University (SMU), he stated “Online education is not only at per with on campus education but it’s superior to that because of the flexibility offered to the learners.Study materials are prepared after multiple iterations by the best subject experts. Thus, the students have the access to best quality study materials. These study materials in the form of written document as well as video tutorials can be downloaded by the students and can accessed even when the internet is not available.Better student monitoring: Students allowed to access the next study materials only after they finish the previous study materials. All the analytics are captured. Self-assessment tests are to be taken by the students after every module.Eligibility to offer online education: All the universities/ colleges may on campus/offline education but universities with higher NAAC accreditation can only offer online education.”
1. What inspired SMU to venture into online education, and how does it align with the university’s vision?
In today’s digital era, online degrees provide unparalleled flexibility, making it a popular mode of education for learners from across the world. With online degrees being recognized at par with on-campus degrees, they have proven to be a boon to many working professionals, freshers, entrepreneurs, and people looking to resume education & work. Providing quality and affordable education for all has been the driving force behind building Sikkim Manipal University to what it is today. Renewing our efforts towards creating student-centric learning experiences for professional growth, SMU is excited to now go online and cater to learners across various geographies & backgrounds.
2. Can you share insights into the technological innovations integrated into SMU’s online learning platform?
Key features of the cutting-edge, AI-powered, and mobile-first online learning platform used by SMU, offers learners the opportunity to engage in interactive, personalized, gamified, and innovative learning experiences from anywhere and at any time. This platform seamlessly creates engaging virtual classroom environments, catering to learners dispersed across various geographical locations.
Key features of this LMS includes:
- Comprehensive learning content, featuring virtual classes, live doubt-clearing sessions, reading material, audio-video content, discussion forums, notes, quizzes, practice questions, and assignments.
- Access to extensive e-libraries comprising over a wide range of e-books, e-journals, e-databases, and more.
- Instant query resolution facilitated by an intelligent chatbot.
- AI-powered nudges delivered through notifications, calls, SMS, and WhatsApp, ensuring that learner’s online learning experience remains on track.