My Blog

ICTOODLE 2022: International Conference on Technology Enabled Online and Distance Learning for Education: In the Context of NEP 2020, jointly organized by the Department of Computer Science and Directorate of Distance Education Pondicherry University, was very well received by the participants. Here are some of my observations and take-home points from the Conference: Education in general and Higher Education in particular, is at an exciting phase of metamorphosis. Now we have only two scenarios: a) Higher education institutions adapting the educational technology or b) Educational technology companies adopting higher education. It is a question of relevance and survival for the higher education academia. With the changing learning patterns of the Millenials, we can't stick to outdated modes of content delivery. Non-linear and engaging modes such as Gamification / Game-based learning should be encouraged to keep the learner engaged. Knowing the learners is essential in all modes

October 10th is World Mental Health Day.  If you ask, "So what? It is simply one among the hundreds of funny-sounding days that we usually see in our social media feeds, WhatsApp forwards, etc.,".  It is not. After the Covid-19 pandemic, certainly it is not.  A report by World Health Organisation (WHO) says that there is a significant increase in stress perceived by people across the spectrum after the onset of the pandemic. Isn't it obvious?  Every passing day, we meet people who claim they are under stress.. enormous stress... Being a teacher, there are more chances of hearing about or seeing people under stress. When you lend your ears and heart to them, they have their own stories to share. Many with deep cuts and wounds...  (Image Source : https://unsplash.com/photos/fzqxoFJytiE)  Most of us are not trained professionals to provide counseling. However, I strongly believe one can not be a good teacher without being a counselor. What can we do for stress management? Th