Ensuring Quality by Utilizing ICT for Reforms in Management Education through ODL in India

Abstract

Management education market has expanded enormously across the world. Business Schools in general and Open University Management Schools in particular have been at the forefront of introducing the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) into knowledge dissemination. Technology enabled management education facilitates change in the curricula and delivery systems so as to prepare managers with an edge to face the challenge occurring due to globally turbulent environment. Most business school programs are designed around a model that involves presentation of theory and best practice with delivery of courses aimed at meeting the needs of individual students and corporate. Through the increased use of ICT some of these ambitions may be further fulfilled. However, there are evidences that business schools are recognizing the need to use new technologies, as yet only few are developing teaching through ICT and Multimedia. The pressure on business schools to make more effective use of ICT in teaching methodologies is now apparent. Management education and ICT has to make a symbiotic relationship for achieving brilliance. ICT familiarity, even creativity in its future use, is an essential managerial skill at all levels of management. Schools of Management Studies in ODL institutions are focusing today to avail maximum advantage of ICT while imparting knowledge and establishing learning processes. In India IGNOU and State Open University's - School of Management Studies (SOMS) and Distance Learning Centers has made commendable efforts in making an access to management education for all. The present public image of availability of management education for elite has been weakened due to the reach of the university to the masses. However, the resources and infrastructure availability of this kind of set up are different as compared to well established Schools. The threats for management education through distance mode of learning may suitably be converted into opportunities by using technological advances and media mix to strengthen management education in developing societies.