‘Online education is one of the biggest finds of the last decade’

Kadhambari S. Viswanathan, assistant vice-president at Vellore Institute of Technology, emphasizes the transformative potential of online education, identifying it as a significant advancement of the past decade. While there is ongoing debate about the future of education, particularly concerning whether online learning will completely replace traditional classroom settings, Viswanathan argues for a more integrated approach. She believes that online and physical education can coexist, enhancing each other to create a more effective learning environment. This perspective highlights the importance of adaptability in education, especially in a rapidly changing technological landscape. As educational institutions increasingly adopt digital platforms, the challenge lies in balancing the strengths of both online and in-person instruction to optimize student engagement and learning outcomes. This dialogue reflects a broader trend in education, where hybrid models are becoming more prevalent, indicating a shift towards a more flexible and inclusive educational framework suitable for diverse learning needs.