This paper seeks to contextualize open learning and distance education as strategic tool for social, political and economic development in developing countries. It aims to reflect at the following key questions: i) Target population ii) Programmes iii) Various steps for programme implementation. The discussion shall primarly focus on India but it shall be relevant for planners and practitioners of Distance Education in other developing countries as well. Taget Population - Out of school children - Adult illiterates. - aspirants of higher education undergraduates and Postgraduates - Continuing learning and Training opportunities for adults of all ages, backgrounds and needs viz rural youth to train them in agriculture and industry, Urban workers to improve their skill, Govt. functionaries to upgrade their working and managerial skills and competence. Functionaries of commercial organisation and private sector executives to promote efficiency and effectiveness at all levels. Housewives to enable them to play a major and effective role in family, society and Nation Minorties. Programmes The educational component plays a very vital role in the achievement of desired objective, whether it is in the field of health, hygiene, environment, scientific knowledge and attitudes, small family norms or national integration. There is an urgent need to develop novel and innovative programmes to educate and train all the people breaking the barriers of space and time which can lead to development of human resources and increase in productivity. Suggested programme are classified into four categories. i) Elementary Education ii) Secondary and Higher Education with special emphasis on vocational & Technical Education. iii) Information Education for all ages and background. iv) Professional and Occupational programmes; accredited courses in various professions and occupations with ample provision for refresher courses. Steps for Programme Implementation i) Identification of Needs. ii) Development of course content and its design. iii) Planning the Delivery Mechanism. iv) Feedback |