Teaching Chemistry at Indira Gandhi National Open University
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Anadolu University, Eskisehir
Abstract
The Open Distance Learning (ODL) concept is fast becoming popular all over the world and
it has a lot of relevance for a highly populated country like India. However, the most
important aspect of this type of teaching-learning process is establishment of the
credibility especially when the laboratory based science programmes are delivered from
such institutions. The apprehensions arise because teaching laboratory based science
related subjects at a distance is difficult due to students’ compulsory presence for the
experimental work and also the cost involvement.
Through this paper we intend to establish the credibility and authenticity of the B.Sc.
(major) in chemistry programme by giving a brief comparative account of IGNOU and
conventional university courses. It discusses the delivery aspects of this programme
highlighting the existing delivery mechanism, analyses the weaknesses in the present
system substantiated by a survey study and also suggests some new approaches to make
chemistry courses more effective from learner’s learning point of view.
The survey study has been helpful also in suggesting appropriate technologies for the
effective delivery of Chemistry courses.
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Open distance learning (ODL); laboratory courses; chemistry teaching; multimedia; interactive radio counseling; teleconferencing and web based counseling, face-to face counseling.