Open Learning Development Centre (OLDC)
The Open Learning Development Centre (OLDC) serves as a crucial platform for skill development courses. From the past two years, OLDC has been operational, achieving its milestones and delivering its services. In this path, OLDC plays a vital role in providing students with opportunities to acquire essential skills that align with the demands of the fast-evolving job market.
We believe that education should be accessible to all and to achieve this, we incorporate innovative teaching and learning methods based on modern technology tools. Our focus on skill-oriented courses provide students with a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on expertise. Students who are unable to physically attend the classes due to geographic constraints can access our educational content online and study through online classes and video lectures. This will allow students to learn at their own pace and convenience. Our experienced teaching staff offers hands-on experience and skill-building opportunities to students, guiding and supervising them. This helps students acquire practical experience that is relevant in today’s dynamic world.
OLDC has also helped in the formation of Educational Technology Lab (ET Lab), which is specifically designed for the production of video lectures and audiobooks. Equipped with the latest technology and software, our ET Lab aims to develop educational material in the form of content for massive open online courses (MOOCs), audiobooks, and web-based information. OLDC also facilitates students with its PRAGYAN portal, an advanced Learning Management System (LMS) that helps them to keep their track record and give their Internal Assessments online. All the information regarding any program is available for the students on this portal and they can easily register for the program they want to pursue. These resources make learning more accessible and flexible, allowing students to engage with course material at their own pace and convenience. The video lectures, often recorded by subject experts, provide visual explanations of complex concepts, enhancing comprehension. Similarly, audiobooks serve as an alternative for students who prefer auditory learning, or for those with visual impairments, ensuring inclusivity in education. It also enables them to easily access educational content, give internal assessments online, and verify their marks. With the help of advanced technology, LMS creates a dynamic learning environment for our students and provides them with improved learning outcomes.
The use of technology at OLDC aligns with global trends in education, where digital and distance learning have become integral. The ET Lab at the centre not only aids in producing high-quality content but also acts as a platform for exploring emerging educational technologies. The lab fosters an environment where students and faculty can engage in the innovative creation of educational materials, using tools such as video editing software, sound recording systems, and other multimedia technologies. This initiative enriches the learning experience, bringing it closer to the diverse needs of today’s learners.
OLDC also operates COL Radio, a platform which plays a crucial role in disseminating academic information and updates, hosting academic and non-academic podcasts, and actively interacting with students on various topics. COL Radio is managed by a dedicated team of experienced instructors, content creators, and technical staff who work together to create high-quality content for the learners. It ensures that learners can easily locate and access the content according to their educational pursuits and interests.
Additionally, OLDC has also established a Centre for Innovative Skill-Based Courses (CISBC) and introduced various skill-based courses to enhance the employability of the students and make them job-ready. Designed with a focus on sectors where human resources are needed, these courses provide specialized skills that are in demand across various industries.
OLDC provides students with accessible, flexible, and high-quality education by being at the forefront of innovation in Open and Distance Learning. As OLDC continues to grow, it remains committed to upholding academic integrity, improving educational quality, and shaping the future of our students at the School of Open Learning (SOL) through lifelong learning opportunities.
