Distance Learning & Correspondence Education Through Sikkim Manipal University or SMU

Distance Learning Overview 

Distance Education, distance learning is a field of education that focuses on the pedagogy, technology, and instructional systems design that aim to deliver education to students who are not physically "on site". Distance learning courses that require a physical on-site presence for any reason including the taking of examinations is considered to be a hybrid or blended course of study.

Many teachers feel the opportunities offered by distance learning outweigh the obstacles. In fact, instructors often comment that the focused preparation required by distance teaching improves their overall teaching and empathy for their students. Through Distance learning they can:

Reach a wider student audience

Provide opportunity to students who are unable to attend on-campus classes

Involve outside speakers who would otherwise be unavailable

Link students from different social, cultural, economic, and experiential backgrounds

Correspondence Education 

Distance Education is not a new phenomenon. Promises of high-quality education that can be acquired anywhere and at any time were made early in the 20th century, by correspondence study programmes. The development of an extensive, relatively inexpensive postal service in the late 19th century led to the creation of print-based correspondence courses. In this model, the student had to register with some university for a course. He would then get all the relevant study material which the student would have to go through and study on his own. The student would then appear for examinations either at the university or at some university specified locations. He also had to submit his assignment through post, in order to get his degree. Communication, teaching and learning all took place using printed materials sent through the postal mail.

These programmes failed to realise their promises because they were confronted by a fundamental trade-off between quality-personalised education and quantity. As there was no interaction between the students and also with the faculty, and therefore the quality of education was very poor. The student had to work on his own to understand the subjects and prepare for the examinations. This eventually led to a widespread dissatisfaction with the quality of correspondence education.

Why SMU-DE 

• Widespread recognition: 
  All programmes offered by SMU-DE are recognised by the Distance Education Council . SMU-DE is a member of Association of Indian University (AIU). The University is also recognised by the Union Ministry of Human Resources Development and by the University Grants Commission (UGC)
• Quality Distance Education 
  SMU-DE delivers quality education through more than 6,500 commiitted and qualified mentors. SMU-DE attracts the best students in India who are looking for distance education. The type of students and the companies they work for is a testimonial of the quality of education SMU-DE provides
• On time delivery of courseware, exams and results: 
  SMU-DE is ISO 9001: 2000 certified. When you join the programme, you will be informed in advance when you will receive your courseware and exam schedule so as to help you plan your study. You will also be informed about when your results will be announced and can be assured of completing your degree in the stipulated time frame
• Student Support and Engagement 
  The student support team keeps students abreast of new initiatives launched by the university via emails and texting (SMS). The continuous dialogue helps student to become an integral part of the university
• Advantages of Authorised Centres: The strong nationwide network of Authorised Centres enables you to choose one that is easily accessible. There are more than 725 Authorised Centres in 310 towns enabling employees in transferable jobs to complete their education from anywhere in India. These Authorised Centres act as access points for advice, counseling or rendering any assistance required by the student
• The EduNxt edge 
  EduNxt is an award-winning learning delivery system that has brought students and teachers closer than ever. Students can take tests and quizzes online, read articles, blogs, participate in discussion forums and access rich content. EduNxt empowers students with anywhere, anytime access. Students experience a ‘portable campus’, have ‘carry along mentors’ and regularly access over one million online books and journals. 
  
  EduNxt is available to all students of of SMU-DE. To know more, log on toEduNxt
• Making Learning Accessible and AffordableScholarships are provided to 1500 meritorious students to access quality education. Education loans are provided to enable students to afford higher education
• Life-time e-mail ID to students
  
  
  
  

  How to Apply? 

  
  

  Applications for admission into the Distance Learning Programmes offered by SMU–DE need to be made at any of the  Authorised Centres. 

  
  
  Please follow the steps below:
  
  Step 1: Decide on the programme you want to pursue. Find programmes
  Step 2: Download the prospectus
  Step 3: Visit the nearest Authorised Centre. Click Here
  Step 4: Purchase the application form from the Authorised Centre
  Step 5: Fill the application in all respects and attach the requisite documents mentioned in the application along with the course fee by way of a Demand Draft in favour of “Sikkim Manipal University, DE” payable at Manipal / Udupi.
  Step 6: Submit the application form with the requisite documents at the Authorised Centre.
  
  Note: For Admission in International Centres please visit a Authorised Centre in your country for prospectus and application form 
  You can view the status of your application on this website by entering your application number
  
  For queries or more information, please e-mail helpdesk@smude.edu.in or call us at 1800-266-7878
  
  You can also apply online at http://admissions.smude.edu.in