Little scope for lateral thinking
PRIYA NARAYANAN
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The emphasis on attendance arises from the twin debilitating factors of absence of autonomy and lack of financial support
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THIS IS in response to the article "Paradigms in engineering education" (Open Page, January 7). As a sixth semester student at a government engineering college, let me present some of my views.
The article put forward a radical suggestion regarding the need for flexibility in attendance requirement for college students, especially in engineering. This suggestion could not have been more relevant coming as it does at a time when the chief reason cited for unemployment among freshers is paucity of employable skills rather than lack of opportunities in industry.
Indeed, giving students the independence to chart their own study schedules, perhaps after one year of lecture classes, would in many ways help the overall development of the student. By reducing the heavy requirement of 85 per cent attendance, students are granted the option of exploring subjects on their own.
Needed facilities
This paradigm shift clearly entails drastic changes in the institutional make-up. Facilities conducive to self-learning will have to be made available. Well-stocked libraries and other spaces for students to hang out, discuss and learn are absolute necessities.
At the same time, alternative programmes such as thematic lectures, technical festivals, seminars and symposia will have to be promoted. Research activities can be conducted in parallel as students can participate by assisting during their off hours. Besides, co-curricular activities that are so essential for all round development can be encouraged.
However, despite all the benefits listed, the scenario in many institutions is very different. Indeed, many of them make students undergo the rote schedule of classes and tests with little scope for lateral thinking. This could be because of the deficiency in extra planning and creativity that is required on the part of the administrators in carrying out innovative programmes.
Stagnation
Besides, the lack of adequate autonomy in the educational sector has translated into a kind of stagnation where old rules and regulations have become indelible. Moreover, financial pressures play a major role when it comes to choosing between classrooms/laboratories and libraries/research cells.
In fact, on deeper probing, it becomes evident that the emphasis on attendance arises from the twin debilitating factors of absence of autonomy and lack of financial support. Radical policy measures will have to be implemented in terms of providing flexibility and associated financial support to educational institutions.
Only this can ensure that the vibrant student community is provided an arena to innovate, interact and research in an atmosphere that is structured less by compulsory classes and more by independent learning.
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