Learning approaches for undergraduates: A critical review

with focus on acceptance in India

In the modern era, learning has evolved from being merely a process to an art. Over the years,
the education system has witnessed various changes and today, the scope to learn is rich, vast
and better than ever before. Although many learning approaches have surfaced, they are not
without short-comings. There are three primary approaches at present i.e., Blended learning
approach followed by traditional universities, Internet-based learning platforms that are open to
all and Distance education provided by various universities. The blended learning approach and
distance education have been there for a while now but the online approach adds a new
dimension to the traditional learning process. The Internet now enables aspiring students across
the globe to learn anything they want irrespective of educational qualifications, location, time,
etc. Online learning platforms have re-defined classrooms in ways that were never imagined
before. From tablets to smartphones, online resources have truly made knowledge bases open,
widely-accessible and, in most cases, free. While this may seem to have removed some of the
barriers to effective learning, it has also created new ones. This paper critically reviews the three
above mentioned learning approaches. Various parameters have been taken into consideration
for this purpose which include impact on learning, management of the learning environment,
challenges faced, advantages, etc. Additionally, the paper throws light on the extent of adoption
of these learning approaches in India, their popularity, barriers, etc. It also suggests measures
that can be taken to induce and increase the acceptance of modern learning approaches in India
by universities, teachers and students.