Gradeup, a preparatory platform for competitive exams, published a research report with a focus on deeper insight into the preparation patterns of students & benefits and scope of live online learning for students in India. The survey for the report was conducted over the course of three months through email, online surveys, telephonic and personal interactions, with over 10,000 students preparing for competitive exams such as JEE, NEET, Banking, GATE and SSC, amongst others.

The rise of emerging technologies has led to a significant increase in Ed-tech platforms across the globe with millions of students registering to use these. In the Indian context, however, what Gradeup found through extensive research is that, the usage and consumption of the content on these platforms still remains limited owing to gaps in existing learning mechanism and aspirant’s needs. This indicated the need for greater engagement to motivate students with continuous, mentored learning.

With these factors in mind, Gradeup launched Gradeup Classroom — Live Classes, to give students a virtual classroom learning experience from the comfort of their homes.

The findings suggest that, of the students who are currently using offline modes for exam preparation, 70 per cent would shift to online learning if given access to live online classes. Of these, over 80 per cent cited access to expert faculty as the primary reason to make this shift. Additionally, over 90 per cent of the total participating students say that they would choose online modes of learning rather than offline coaching. Factors such as convenience of preparing from home, access to live classes, and cost-benefit are the top three drivers for this choice. Further, 20 per cent of the total number of participants also said they would be willing to pay extra for access to live classes.

The survey further found that 63 per cent amongst those students that prefer online learning would choose live classes for their exam preparation, while a much lower proportion, at 29 per cent, would choose recorded lectures. The foremost reasons students stated for choosing live classes are interactive classes for instant doubt resolution and proper planning through a day-wise study plan.  These findings are clear indicators that students are increasingly realising the benefits, and opening up to the idea of taking live online classes for their exam preparation.