ACADEMIC FLEXIBILITIES & OPPORTUNITIES TO THE LEARNERS THROUGH MOOCS IN CONTEXT OF NATIONAL EDUCATION POLICY 2020

Abstract

Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) have brought paradigm shift in the educational arena. They have given a new shape to the conventional teaching and learning approaches and promoted the digitalization of education, which is essential in the current era. In India, MOOCs operate through the SWAYAM platform, which is based on three cardinal principles -Equity, Quality and Access, sync with National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The substantial momentum of these courses in recent years is indicated by their high enrolment rate which integrates learners from diverse background onto a single platform. This paper elaborates on how these courses acts as catalyst by providing remedial role in uplifting the society and making education more inclusive. This paper reflects how these courses offer learners a wide range of academic flexibilities and provide multifaceted opportunities, helping them become more skilled and encouraging lifelong learning. In this study, the researcher investigates the dimensions of flexibility and opportunity in these courses, demonstrating how they not only meet individual needs but also build a more progressive and knowledgeable society which is the ultimate aim of the NEP 2020. Moreover, this paper suggests broadening the courses with consideration for rural India, making it more accessible at the grassroots level.