NSOU and UOU Launch Online Faculty Development Programme on Outcome-Based Curriculum and Digital Tools

Netaji Subhas Open University (NSOU), West Bengal, in collaboration with Uttarakhand Open University (UOU), India, inaugurated a national-level, week-long Online Faculty Development Programme (FDP) titled, “Strategies for Developing Outcome-Based Curriculum and Utilising Digital Tools in Education,” on 11 November 2024. The initiative, designed to equip educators with skills in outcome-based curriculum development and digital tool utilisation, marks a significant step towards modernising India’s educational framework.

The event’s inaugural session featured distinguished speakers including Dr B. Shadrach, Director of the Commonwealth Educational Media Centre for Asia (COL-CEMCA), who served as the Chief Guest. Dr Shadrach commended the collaboration between NSOU and UOU, calling it a “pioneering model for online faculty development among open universities.” He highlighted the relevance of Outcome-Based Education (OBE) in alignment with India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which advocates for learner-centred curricula, interdisciplinary studies, and 21st-century skill development. Dr Shadrach stressed the importance of clearly defined learning outcomes and innovative assessment methods that leverage digital tools, ultimately aiming to foster a supportive and inclusive educational environment.

Professor Indrajit Lahiri, NSOU Vice Chancellor, emphasised the transformative potential of outcome-based curricula, and encouraged active participation in the programme, which explores innovative strategies and case studies. He stressed the need for continuous improvement and adaptability in fostering student success. He remarked, “Traditional education models no longer meet the evolving demands of today’s world. This programme offers a gateway for educators to create real-world, application-focused learning experiences.”

Echoing these sentiments, UOU Vice Chancellor, Professor O.P.S. Negi urged educators to embrace modern teaching methods aligned with NEP 2020. He expressed optimism that this programme would empower faculty to harness digital tools and AI for personalised learning and improved assessment practices. Professor Negi encouraged open knowledge exchange to enhance ICT-enabled teaching in ODL.

The FDP, led by Professor Anirban Ghosh from NSOU, and Professor Jeetendra Pande from UOU, aims to foster collaboration among participants, with discussions on course content and teaching strategies, including the development of a two-credit course titled "Distance Education in the Digital Age." Professor Pande mentioned that recorded sessions, resources shared through a learning management system, and certification upon completion of the course would ensure participants’ continued growth. The session concluded with a vote of thanks from Professor Ashutosh Kumar Bhatt, UOU, who acknowledged the collaborative spirit driving this impactful initiative. The session was ably moderated by Professor Ritu Mathur Mitra from NSOU.