1. Development of Innovative Learning Solutions
NCIDE promotes and develops innovative learning solutions for open and distance learning system on issues related to access, quality and equity. It also focuses on development of ICT enabled solutions for effective and learner friendly instructional system including e-learning, multimedia learning, mobile learning and other web based learning. Besides these initiatives, several need based programmes in the new and emerging areas will also be developed by the Centre.
2. Development of Innovative Support Solutions
The Centre develops ICT applications for University management system, ICT enabled support services, including online and on-demand admission and examinations, mobilets, and other information on mobile or other hand-held devices. A virtual environment will also be created for providing learning and other support services to the distance learners.
3. Research and Benchmarking for Quality Management
To explore the areas of innovation and to find out suitable, cost effective and feasible solutions, the Centre undertakes research studies. The broad areas of research and development include identification of the quality indicators, quality assurance mechanism and benchmarking etc., for quality management of the programmes in the ODL system.
4. Documentation and Dissemination
To facilitate easy reference by scholars, policy makers and other stakeholders, the Centre documents, studies and disseminates the policies and practices on innovations in the entire ODL system in the country and abroad. A digital repository of the innovations and research studies in the field of ODL is being created.
5. Capacity Building
Focusing on the emerging areas and technology in education, the Centre offers short term training packages and organizes capacity building programmes for the ODL functionaries and others. It is also develops manuals and handouts for the use of upcoming technologies for imparting effective distance education.
6. Collaboration and Networking
To share the ideas and experiences in the field of innovations in ODL, the Centre organizes National/International seminars, conferences and workshops on innovations in Distance Education.
7. Incubation and Nurturing Innovators
Another thrust area of the Centre is the identification, recognition and nurturing of innovations in Distance Education. For this purpose, the Centre provides technological and intellectual assistance to individuals, institutes and organizations desirous of integrating technology into their research and educational instructions. In order to promote and recognize the innovators, the Centre has instituted a Gold Medal Award for Innovation in Distance Education, which is awarded every year.
