![Academicians, administrators, policy makers and research scholars at MIER College of Education during a daylong conference in the institute on Saturday. Academicians, administrators, policy makers and research scholars at MIER College of Education during a daylong conference in the institute on Saturday.](https://cdndailyexcelsior.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/page9-4-8-696x528.jpg)
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Dec 16: MIER College of Education (Autonomous) today hosted a daylong international conference on “Open and Digital Learning: Prospects and Challenges.”
As per a statement, Prof Anju Bhasin, Dean Academic Affairs, University of Jammu, attended the event as Chief Guest while Prof Ramesh Chander Sharma, Director Human Resource Development Centre, Dr BR Ambedkar University, Delhi, served as guest of the honour.
The conference, conducted in a blended mode, witnessed the convergence of academicians, administrators, policymakers, and scholars from across the country.
Addressing the conference theme, Dr Renu Gupta, Chairperson of MIER Group of Institutions, underscored the global impact of e-learning, emphasizing its transformative role in providing flexibility and accessibility to educational content. She emphasized the need for integrating online and offline learning for a harmonized educational experience.
Dr Adit Gupta, Director and Principal of MIER College, detailed the conference objectives, focusing on themes such as the current status of open and digital learning in India, global best practices, pedagogical interventions, skill development, technology-enhanced learning initiatives, research trends, and the role of digital universities.
During the conference, Prof Ramesh C Sharma delivered an inaugural keynote address, highlighting the importance of learning resilience in the digital era and advocating for adaptability and tenacity in the face of technological advancements.
Prof Anju Bhasin, in her Presidential Remarks, acknowledged the challenges of transitioning to online models and stressed the importance of flexibility, universal access, personalized learning, strategic planning, diversity and inclusion, and global collaboration in the digital learning landscape.
The event comprised various sessions, including keynotes and paper presentations by eminent educationists from around the globe. Approximately 40 papers covering diverse topics related to open and digital learning were presented, with sessions chaired by experts in the field. The conference concluded with a Fireside Chat moderated by Prof Adit Gupta, featuring esteemed panellists.
Dr Nishta Rana, Head of School of Education and Research & Development, expressed gratitude in a formal vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of various individuals, including Dr Bharti Tandon for the smooth execution of the program and the rapporteurs for their significant role in the conference’s success.