THE IMPRESSION, A Journal on Multidisciplinary Studies, A Peer Reviewed Journal

34 | THE
VOL. IMPRESSION,
X, Annual VOL. X,
Issue (2023) (ISSN: Annual Issue 2023
2278-2699)

INTEGRATION OF TECHNOLOGY IN EDUCATION IN NEP-2020

Sonali Roy Chowdhury Ghosh*

Abstract:The National Education Policy 2020 acknowledges the numerous benefits of

incorporating technology into education, while also recognizing the potential risks and
challenges associated with it. This article aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of how
technology can be effectively leveraged in education, addressing obstacles, and expanding
the reach of existing digital platforms and ICT-based educational programs to ensure
inclusive and high-quality education for all. In this article, the researcher conducted a
study to find the purposes that can be served by technology in the field of education and to
study the recommendations made by NEP 2020 regarding the integration of technology in
education. It also focuses on the challenges of implementing the recommendations of NEP
2020 with respect to the integration of technology in education. This study is descriptive
in nature and relies on qualitative data analysis.

Keywords: Technology, Digital Education, Academicians, Students,

Policymakers, Creativity.

■ Introduction:

The introduction of the National Education Policy 2020 marks a significant milestone
for the country, representing the first major reform in the education sector in 34 years.
NEP 2020 places a strong emphasis on the integration of technology, recognizing its
pivotal role in fostering holistic development. One notable aspect of this policy is its
commitment to promoting regional languages through the development of e-courses
and the establishment of virtual labs. Additionally, the creation of the National
Educational Technology Forum (NETF) is currently in progress, which is poised to
play a crucial role in shaping the future of education in the country.

* Assistant Professor , Institute of Education , Haldia

Email Id- sonali.rchowdhury@gmail.com
Integration
of Technology in Education in NEP-2020 | 35

The incorporation of technology into education, with the goal of achieving 100
percent literacy, is a central theme of NEP 2020. The policy acknowledges the profound
impact of technology on societal progress and underscores its potential to enhance
the quality of education. To fully realize this vision, substantial efforts are required to
provide support for the seamless integration of technology and to embrace the broader
changes in the existing education system.

NEP 2020 is committed to ensuring the equitable use of technology by investing

in the establishment of open public digital infrastructure. It also recognizes the
importance of adopting emerging technologies such as 3D, simulation, robotics, and
artificial intelligence (AI) in education. Furthermore, the policy promotes blended
learning, combining online and hands-on experimental learning approaches. It also
envisions the expansion of existing digital learning platforms to facilitate widespread
access to high-quality education.

In conclusion, the National Education Policy 2020 represents a transformative

initiative aimed at revitalizing the education system in India. With a strong focus on
technology integration and innovation, the policy seeks to harness the potential of
digital tools and emerging technologies to provide inclusive, high-quality education
for all.

Information and communication technology (ICT), in particular, has gained

attention from academics, students, and politicians as a result of the COVID-19
epidemic. In light of this, it would be important to critically evaluate the ET adoption
provisions in the Indian National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 to improve its clarity
and provide a roadmap for Indian education in the next decades. Hence, Technological
Integration in Education: NEP 2020 is the issue which arises here.

■ Significance of the Study:

From the dawn of time, man has relied on technology to make life easier, and his goal
has been to continually complicate technology. Modern cutting-edge technology has
benefited human existence in every area, including schooling. Future education will
undergo a radical shift in which technology will play a more significant role than it
does at the now. Several studies have supported the use of technology in education,
claiming that it will help students learn on their own, engage with others, continually
improve what they know, and stimulate creativity. The New Education Policy made a
case for the use of technology in the classroom. Nonetheless, there have been significant
difficulties in putting the NEP 2020‘s ideas for integrating technology into education
36 | THE IMPRESSION, VOL. X, Annual Issue 2023

into practice. The current study is relevant enough for all academics, researchers, and
decision-makers in this area.
■Objectives:

The main objectives of the study are as follows-

 To study the purposes that can be served by technology in the field of Education
 To study the recommendations made by NEP 2020 regarding the integration of
technology in education.
 To discuss the challenges for implementation of the recommendations of NEP
2020 in respect of the integration of technology in Education.

■ Purposes Of Technologies:

Technology alone may not revolutionize education, but a transformed educational

approach can benefit significantly from technology. Different perspectives on education’s
challenges offer various technological solutions. In sectors like IT, manufacturing,
warehousing, marketing, logistics, finance, and human resource development,
interactions with technology are common. Advanced media applications and accessible
consumer gadgets, particularly cameras and audio-visual equipment, have contributed
to the widespread adoption of information and communication technology.

Explorations into the impact of technology on education have been well-

documented in industrialized cultures, even when affordability is not the primary
criterion. Recently, the following technologies have been on the wish list:
Support for teachers and teaching-learning: This includes enhanced collaboration,
student-teacher engagement, parent-teacher communication, improved access to open
educational resources, and devices to aid various aspects of teaching and learning.
System-wide support encompasses big data analytics, language acquisition, and skill
development. Each of these options has been tested in various educational settings
with students of different ages, and the results have been extensively documented. Each
tool, product, or service has a specific function suitable for instructional use. Some, like
e-learning, have become the preferred technology in education.

Cost and reliability are influenced by the complexity of arrangements, unique

devices, niche markets, and technology lifespan. Consequently, they are often
overlooked in public education systems. In fact, to reduce costs and reach end-users
directly, many of these technologies have been positioned as consumer applications
Integration
of Technology in Education in NEP-2020 | 37

and gadgets in the technology sector.

It’s important to note that technologies have rarely evolved in direct response to
educational needs. However, a wish list of potential uses can be derived from their diverse
applications across various industries and sectors, including general administration
and management from individual schools to state education systems, teacher and staff
capabilities at all levels, and the teaching-learning processes.

Broadly, technology support is sought to serve the following purposes in order of

priority:

• Data and Information Management System

• Continuous Professional Development System
• Curricular Support System
■ Continuous Support to Schools, Teachers and Other System Functionaries
Through Technology& Professionally:

There is a possibility of professional isolation for teachers, especially those who

work in tiny towns and villages. The Department of Education often offers training
programmers, but not all teachers get them frequently enough to support them
throughout their careers. Professional assistance is also beneficial for the administrative
and academic roles within the school system. Teachers and staff from the state ‘s
extensive private school system is likewise not included in the training intervention
net. All functionaries will need a broad range of specialized training and up- grading
to use the planned set of technological applications. Technology can significantly
contribute to delivering the continuing assistance that is much required. Online course
platforms, online interactive forums, and digital libraries may be used to meet a range
of demands for instructors and school administrators since they are an accessible and
affordable medium. Throughout the state, subject teacher forums have been tried out
and have shown to be useful and appealing. The initiative that instructors have shown
in improving themselves may be used, and the peer group that is enabled by technology
can develop into very useful Communities of Practice.

■ Recommendations of NEP-2020:

They include research, de-skilling, and awareness raising in order to help our educational
system deal with the rapid and disruptive changes that put us all, individually and
collectively, at risk in an increasingly cutthroat global marketplace. The main goals
of technological interventions will be to enhance educational access, support
38 | THE IMPRESSION, VOL. X, Annual Issue 2023

teacher preparation and professional development, and improve teaching- learning

and evaluation processes. They will also aim to streamline educational planning,
management, and administration, including procedures for admission, attendance,
assessment, etc. The National Educational Technology Forum (NETF), which will be
the vehicle for integrating technology into many elements of school education and
higher education, will be created autonomously by NEP, 2020 in order to accomplish
these goals. The NETF‘s responsibilities will include the following: I advising
Central and State Government agencies on technology-based interventions based
on independent, evidence-based advice; ii) developing institutional and intellectual
capacities in educational technology; iii) conceiving of strategic thrust areas in this
area; and iv) articulating new directions for research and innovation. Moreover, it
discusses enhancing CIET to advance and broaden DIKSHA and other educational
technology efforts. Moreover, the NEP, 2020 has suggested the crucial actions below: I
to carry out a number of pilot studies for online education, ii) to invest in developing
digital infrastructure, iii) to promote appropriate online teaching-learning platforms,
iv) to create e-Contents, digital repositories, and their reliable dissemination, v) to
focus on addressing the country‘s digital divide, vi) to use technology to create virtual
labs for easy and equal access to all students, vii) to train teachers and to incentivize
their digital

■ Challenges For Implementation:

Certainly, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has made commendable strides
in integrating technology into education. However, there are significant challenges that
must be addressed to successfully implement the policy. A survey on ‘Household Social
Consumption: Education’ conducted from July 2017 to June 2018, covering both rural
and urban households, sheds light on some critical issues:

Digital Divide: Access to technology is a fundamental concern. To effectively integrate

technology into education, it is crucial for all students to have access to devices like
smartphones and computers with internet connectivity. Unfortunately, underprivileged
students often lack such access, creating a significant hurdle to overcome.

Infrastructure Challenges: Network issues and power cuts are prevalent in various
parts of the country, especially in rural areas. Ensuring a stable and reliable digital
infrastructure is essential for seamless technology integration.

Ethical Concerns: Controlling unethical practices in the digital realm, such as cheating
and plagiarism, poses a challenge that must be addressed to maintain academic integrity.
Integration
of Technology in Education in NEP-2020 | 39

Shift in Learning Paradigm: Transitioning from a traditional rote-learning system to a

technology-driven model that emphasizes critical thinking and experimental learning
necessitates a change in the attitudes of various stakeholders. Continuous efforts are
required to understand and implement this new vision effectively.

Teacher Competence: To meet the demands of the evolving educational landscape,

there is a pressing need for digitally competent teachers. Teachers should be well-
versed in using technology for teaching and learning.

Digital Resources: Many subjects face limitations when it comes to teaching through
digital means. Developing comprehensive digital resources for all subjects is a challenge
that must be addressed.

Collaboration Between Center and States: The successful implementation of the policy
requires collaboration between the central and state governments. Coordinated efforts
are essential for overcoming the challenges associated with policy implementation and
technology integration.

Despite these challenges, NEP 2020 represents a comprehensive education policy

that has the potential to bring about significant positive transformations in the current
education system. Key initiatives recommended by NEP 2020, such as conducting pilot
studies for online learning, investing in digital infrastructure, and promoting suitable
online teaching-learning platforms, are essential steps in realizing the policy’s goals.

In conclusion, while technology integration in education is crucial for progress,

addressing the digital divide, infrastructure issues, ethical concerns, and shifting
the learning paradigm requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including
governments, educational institutions, teachers, and students, to fully leverage the
benefits of NEP 2020. Technology integration in education refers to the use of technology
to enhance the learning experience of students. Using a variety of technologies in
the classroom, including virtual classrooms, creates students who are actively engaged
with learning objectives.

■ Conclusion:

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 presents innovative concepts and
acknowledges the crucial role of technology in advancing education, particularly in
enhancing teaching and learning. While some states have already implemented the new
policy, others are in the process of doing so, highlighting that there is still a considerable
40 | THE IMPRESSION, VOL. X, Annual Issue 2023

journey ahead to fully realize its objectives. One of the noteworthy strengths of NEP
2020 is its emphasis on fostering collaboration and cooperation between the central
and state governments. NEP 2020 recognizes that various advances in technology such
as educational software, artificial intelligence, blockchain, adaptive computer testing,
etc. will play an important role in changing what and how students learn in schools.
This collaborative approach has the potential to equip learners with the essential
skills and technological competencies required for the future, ensuring that education
remains relevant in an ever-changing world. Technology offers teachers new ways to
tailor instruction to meet the needs of individual students. Adaptive learning software
can adjust the difficulty of content based on a student’s progress, while data analytics
tools can help identify students who may need additional support.

Furthermore, the government has taken proactive measures to engage stakeholders

and acquaint them with the vision and mission of the National Education Policy 2020.
This proactive engagement has sparked significant interest and participation among
various stakeholders, including educators, administrators, parents, and students,
contributing to a shared understanding of the policy’s goals and principles. In
conclusion, while NEP 2020 represents a significant leap forward in reshaping India’s
education system, its successful implementation will hinge on continued collaboration,
effective communication, and concerted efforts from both central and state authorities,
as well as all stakeholders involved in the education sector.

■ Reference:
•Aithal, P. S.; Aithal, Shubhrajyotsna (2019), Analysis of Higher Education in Indian National
Education Policy Proposal 2019 and Its Implementation Challenges‖. International Journal of
Applied Engineering and Management Letters. 3 (2): 1–35. SSRN 3417517s

•Chopra, Ritika (2020)-Explained-reading the New Educational Policy 2020.The Indian

Express, Daily-2nd Aug. 2020.

•Jebaraj, Priscilla (2 August 2020). ―The Hindu Explains, What has the National Education
Policy 2020 proposed? The Hindu. ISSN 0971-751X
•Krishna, Atul (29th July 2020)- NEP 2020 Highlights : School and higher Education. NDTV
Discussion.

•National Knowledge Commission,(2006) Report to the Nation, 2006.

•National Education Policy 2020, Ministry Of Humam Resource Development, Govt. of India.
Integration
of Technology in Education in NEP-2020 | 41
•Nandini, ed. (29th July 2020)-New Education Policy 2020 Highlights. School and Higher
Education to see major changes. Hindustan Times.

•Rohatgi, Anubha, ed. (7 August 2020). ―Highlights, NEP will play role in reducing gap
between research and education in India: PM Modi, Hindustan Times.