LANGUAGE IN INDIA

Strength for Today and Bright Hope for Tomorrow

Volume 25:6 June 2025
ISSN 1930-2940

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Blended Learning in Rural Tamil Nadu: The Role of 'Naan Mudhalvan' in Enhancing English Proficiency

Dr. Brindha. K.
Girishwar. T Ph.D. Research Scholar (FT) and
Sureka G, Ph.D. Research Scholar

Abstract

Integrating digital learning platforms into traditional classrooms is known as blended learning, which transformed English Language Teaching (ELT), especially in regions with limited infrastructure for education. This research explores the impact of the Naan Mudhalvan digital program initiative on enhancing English proficiency among rural students in Tamil Nadu. As a state government offered skill development program, Naan Mudhalvan offers a wide range of English language learning modules created in a way to improve communication skills, career readiness, and digital fluency. This research mainly focuses on how face to face learning and digital content brings out the challenges faced by rural peoples in Tamil Nadu where they are lack exposure, have minimal access to internet and insufficient teacher training. Through a mixed method approach, the study states that students' confidence level grows, learner outcomes increase in vocabulary growth and comprehension skills improve through Naan Mudhalvan. Even though challenges do exist like inconsistent internet access and limited digital literacy, the program promises to bridge the language divide among urban-rural populations. The paper recommends improving digital integration, teacher training, and localized content development to maximize the successful outcomes of blended learning in rural ELT contexts.

Keywords:blended learning, digital learning, English language teaching, Naan Mudhalvan, rural education

Introduction

In India, English proficiency remains a vital skill for academic success and employability. However, students in rural areas of Tamil Nadu often face major barriers for effective English language learning, including under-resourced schools, minimal efficient teachers, and a lack of immersive linguistic environments. In response to these difficulties, technology-driven education systems have been introduced to supplement traditional classroom learning. Naan Mudhalvan is one such initiative, that empowers youth through skill development and personalized learning pathways - it is a flagship program established by the Government of Tamil Nadu. Naan Mudhalvan provides a digital platform featuring career-oriented courses, and modules focus on English language acquisition. This paper investigates the effectiveness of Naan Mudhalvan in improving English proficiency among rural learners. It seeks to understand how the platform supports the development of language skills, the role of teachers in facilitating blended learning, and the challenges faced in implementing such a model in rural contexts. Through a mixed-methods analysis study with student assessments and tutor feedback, the research aims to provide insights into how blended learning can be optimized to transform English Language Teaching in underserved communities.

Naan Mudhalvan Program - Background Naan Mudhalvan (translated as 'I am the First') is a flagship initiative established by the Government of Tamil Nadu in 2022 under the leadership of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin. This program aims to provide skill development and career guidance to over ten lakh college students all over Tamil Nadu annually through both online and offline interventions. The program provides curated learning paths in areas like artificial intelligence, language and communication skills, interview readiness, and more that align with the National Education Policy (NEP) and global employability trends. The platform's English language learning modules are structured to improve proficiency through interactive videos, self-paced exercises, quizzes, and real-time performance tracking. These features reflect the core tenets of blended learning allows students to actively participate with content beyond the classroom and at their own convenience. Naan Mudhalvan also collaborates with reputed academic institutions and with industry experts for need-based content that is regionally relevant yet globally competitive. The unique aspect of Naan Mudhalvan is it focuses on inclusivity and is accessed easily through mobile phone. It gives real time instant feedback and skill assessments, which helps to customize the learning paths of students over different linguistic and academic levels. Naan Mudhalvan serves as a bridge between traditional ELT and modern skill-based education. This initiative is a progressive step towards democratizing English education and preparing rural students for global communication demands.

This is only the beginning part of the article. PLEASE CLICK HERE TO READ THE ENTIRE ARTICLE IN PRINTER-FRIENDLY VERSION.

Dr. Brindha. K.
Assistant Professor and Head, PG and Research Department of English
Chikkanna Government Arts College,
Tiruppur
Girishwar. T Ph.D. Research Scholar (FT)
PG and Research Department of English
Chikkanna Government Arts College,
Tiruppur
girishwarmoorthy@gmail.com &
Sureka G, Ph.D. Research Scholar
PG and Research Department of English
Chikkanna Government Arts College,
Tiruppur

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