CHANGING PATTERNS OF HIGHER EDUCATION AMONG STUDENTS: A SOCIOLOGICAL STUDY OF KOTDWAR CITY, UTTARAKHAND

Higher education in small urban centers of India has been undergoing noticeable transformation in recentyears. This study examines the changing patterns of higher education among students in Kotdwar city,Uttarakhand. It explores the influence of digital learning, skill-oriented education, and socio-cultural factorson students’ educational choices and aspirations. The study is based on secondary sources, field observation,informal interaction, and a structured questionnaire administered to 35 higher education students. Percentagebased analysis was used to interpret the data. The findings reveal a shift from exclusive reliance on traditionalclassroom learning towards blended and digital learning methods. Students increasingly view highereducation as a means of employment and social mobility rather than only academic attainment. The studyhighlights the need for adaptive and inclusive educational practices in small urban settings.