INCLUSIVE DIGITAL LEARNING FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT: BRIDGING THE URBAN-RURAL DIGITAL DIVIDE AND ADVANCING SDG4

Abstract

In contemporary education system, technology enhanced learning are the insurgents which immensely contributes towards the fulfilment of the universal Sustainable Development Goals. This study evaluates the mechanisms between cutting-edge digital education that aids to reach Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 4—fostering inclusive and fair learning ecosystem and methodizing lifelong equitable learning opportunity across all ages. This paper deconstructs the impact of usage of digital ecosystem to augment inclusive education, equity, and viability in the Urban-Rural continuum. The research work also focuses on the ramification of technology to mark educational inequality, instilling digital competency and solidarity. The research uses both statistical and thematic analysis techniques combined with a rigorous review of international and national literature along with primary data from structured questionnaire for surveys and interviews. The respondents of the survey comprise of people belonging from various strata in the field of education from both undergraduate and post-graduate institutes including students, academicians and administrators. Quantitative data were analyzed using statistical techniques to know about the patterns of usage, disparities in access and perceived advantages of digital learning. Qualitative data were gathered from related case studies and enquiry to stake-holders for the formulation of a context regarding the hurdles faced by digital education corresponding to different geodemographic and socio-economic strata.  The study illustrates on some major findings about the enormous contribution of digital learning platforms like Learning Management Systems (LMS), online courses and mobile learning apps in terms of the capability to access quality experiences for students in remote marginal areas. Such tools have enabled learners in remote areas the privilege of flexible, affordable and independent learning – benefits which were so far considered infeasible given the infrastructural and economic constraints. Digital platforms, on the ground of their flexibility, have also accomplished in reaching out to diverse groups of learners like first generation learners, especially abled learners and women learners, through delivery in regional languages and formats. Nevertheless, this study also provides helpful notes in the areas of long-term digital gaps which can potentially obstruct the progress of technology-based education. Regardless of the progress made till date, factors such as scarce gadget access, digital literacy levels, availability of network facility and non-existence of regulatory endorsement still acts as an obstacle in of spread of digital education. In outskirts, lack of infrastructure and shortage of trained digital learning facilitators are important parameters to the gap between potential and actual social impact of digital education. These constraints compelled us to intervene through several activities like state-facilitated sub-infrastructure for broadband, local community digital awareness programs, along with digital pedagogy training. The study focuses on the need for digital learning ecosystems that are inclusive and environmentally sustainable. Institutes are experimenting with cheap digital technologies with less electricity consumption rather than upgrading to high-bandwidth-sucking technological bandwagons and are also getting aligned to open access learning resources so that they don't need to depend on commercial outfits for educational materials. In India, with the DIKSHA platform or global partnerships dedicated to ICT4D (Information and Communication Technologies for Development), establishes that digital learning may follow sustainable path if operated well-researched frameworks and participatory communities.The research paper proposed a practical and policy-driven strategy for utilising digital learning as a tool for sustainable development. Digital learning involves reformation of curriculum, educators’ skill enhancement, joint public-private ventures and community involvement. It is a useful tool that can lead to social change. It can help students to gain knowledge, enhance skills and attitudes for sustainable development. Digital learning has substantial potential to build rational and future-oriented education systems across the globe, on condition that technical innovation is integrated with sustainability.