KPMG Report Reveals Sharp Increase in Online Education
Research carried out by KPMG has revealed that online education in India will be a $2 billion industry by 2012. The report illustrates just how influential online education is in a nation where millions of people struggle to obtain an education at a mainstream school.
Online Education Booming in India
Indian students are actively looking for online education opportunities, with data from Google revealing a 200% increase in online searches for education courses and a 300% increase in searches from a mobile device. The majority of the searches are coming from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities such as Aligarh and Patna, which the study’s authors suggest is indicative of strong smartphone penetration in these areas.
Skills Boost
Many students are looking to boost their skills with an online education. Because online education is so accessible, people from all walks of life can sign up to an online university to complete an online MELCD degree or cognition and development degree. The online certification and reskilling industry were worth a whopping $93 billion last year, but it is expected to grow even more over the next few years.
Hybrid Learning Channels
The online education landscape in India is seeing a rise in demand for hybrid learning channels, as professionals seek to learn new skills. However, the study’s authors have concluded that the primary and secondary education market is likely to explode in the next five years, as online education platforms capitalize on a strong demand for exam preparation materials and other education resources.
Reputable universities all over the world offer accredited degree and post-graduate courses that anyone can sign up to do. It is a relatively low-cost way of gaining a higher education to improve job prospects and career opportunities. Furthermore, with many employers expecting job candidates to have an undergraduate degree as a bare minimum, it is hardly surprising online education is enjoying an increased uptake.
The Benefits of Online Study
There are several key benefits to online study, which Indian students are clearly realizing. The main advantage is ease of access. You don’t need to attend classes in a brick and mortar establishment, as all classes are taken online. This is perfect for busy working professionals or young people who are unable to attend a traditional college.
The other main advantage is the cost. Most online courses are cheaper than their traditional counterparts are, as the educational provider has lower overheads. Students can pay for individual courses and complete the course materials in their own time. Online study is very flexible and you are free to study around your normal life. This makes it ideal for busy working professionals who need to boost their skill set but don’t have time to attend evening classes at a local university.
With so many reputable online universities offering a wide range of courses, students in India are spoilt for choice. However, it is essential that students enroll at a reputable and accredited educational establishment, or their online qualification will be worthless.
From Ana Borlescu