Why online learning is a boon to differently abled learners

Every year, December 3^rd is observed as International Day of Persons with Disabilities. It is aimed at spreading awareness about the rights and well-being of people with disabilities. This year, the theme is “Transformative solutions for inclusive development: The role of innovation in fueling an accessible and equitable world”.  

According to the World Health Organization, globally, 15% of the population lives with some form of disability, and 80% of this population live in developing countries. In India, 2.2% of the population endures some form of physical disability.  

At a time of rapid digitalization, technology is bringing about positive signs across sectors and education is no exception. The dawning of the internet changed the lives of students and learners worldwide, who have the privilege to access education anywhere, anytime. This largely benefits learners who belong to marginalized groups, like people with disabilities. 

Read more: How online education in breaking traditional barriers

Online learning is a savior for differently abled people, who cannot attend physical college or university to pursue their education. With the advent of online learning, students with disabilities can study from their smartphones or laptops with the help of an internet connection. Technology is providing them with the perfect learning solutions.  

Read more: Pros and cons of online learning

Online learning: A boon to everyone

Online learning caters to learners with various forms of disabilities.  

• Students with physical disabilities can study online, from the comfort of their homes, without the need to travel to college. It also decreases physical strain.  
• Learners with visual impairments can make use of adaptive technologies like braille keyboards, audio books, or voice-to-text software to pursue their education.  
• Students with hearing impairments can watch video lectures with subtitles. Moreover, with cutting-edge technology, online learning platforms deliver classes that use multimedia elements that help learners understand concepts easily. Students can also rewatch videos.  
• Technology is helping students with learning disabilities by customizing textbook content according to their convenience. This helps them process information effectively.  

Read more: How online learning is empowering girls in rural areas

Benefits of online education for students with disabilities 

Here’s how online learning can help transform their lives.  

Flexible learning opportunities 

Flexibility is the biggest boon of pursuing online degrees or courses. Most universities offering online programs conduct classes during the weekend, making it easier for students to study. For differently abled learners, flexibility is of utmost importance as they can schedule their studies according to their convenience. 

Inclusivity 

Students with disabilities might find it uncomfortable to study with their peers. They might be conscious of being judged or teased. Online learning breaks this barrier, as learners can study in an environment of their comfort. At the same time, they can also interact with peers virtually, improving their communication skills. This makes them feel more inclusive.   

Breaking physical barriers 

Accessibility is another benefit of online learning that makes it extremely desirable for students with disabilities. Learners can attend classes from the comfort of their homes with the help of a laptop or smartphone and an internet connection. With Online Manipal, learners can attend classes and access e-learning material even on low bandwidth.  

Access to recorded classes e-learning material 

Learners can access e-learning material multiple times throughout the day. Some universities also provide recorded sessions that are accessible anytime. This helps students revisit classes they want to re attend and clarify doubts. This enhances students’ learning potential. 

Cutting-edge technology 

Undoubtedly, technology drives online learning. Universities offering online degrees use cutting-edge technology to deliver online classes. Differently abled students can attend lectures that use multimedia elements like audio, video and images. This also improved the quality of online education.  

Pick from top universities 

Differently abled students might dream of pursuing degrees from top, reputed universities, but might not be able to attend college physically. With online degrees, learners can pick a university of their choice and study. There are several universities in India and abroad offering online courses and programs today, expanding the opportunities for learners with disabilities to pursue the degree of their dreams. This is how online learning is transforming the lives of students with disabilities.  

The Online Manipal advantage 

An online learning platform, Online Manipal gives access to online degrees from premium universities including Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ), Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) and T. A. Pai Management Institute (TAPMI). There are several benefits to pursuing your degree with Online Manipal.  

Scholarships for differently abled students: Online Manipal offers scholarships for differently abled learners. Scholarships coupled with easy financing options makes the degree programs cost-effective.  

Read more: Top scholarships offered at Online Manipal

UGC-recognized degrees: The online programs available on the Online Manipal website are UGC entitled, and NAAC accredited. They are valued and credible worldwide. 

Empowered education: With access to courses designed by industry experts, learners can take up quizzes and get access to webinars anytime.  

Enhanced digital learning platform: An integrated learning management system (LMS) allows learners to interact with peers and faculty and access 1000+ hours of cutting-edge tutorials.  

Experienced faculty: Students get to interact with faculty, who are industry experts, at any time. Students with disabilities can attend doubt clearing sessions and approach faculty at any time. 

Wrapping up 

The benefits of online learning in today’s technologically driven world have made it a desirable mode of learning. Especially for differently abled persons, in the sense that they feel more accepted while studying remotely than attending physical classes. It allows them to study in a comfortable environment and they can access everything at their fingertips.