Colleges cold over semesters?

Delhi University's decision to implement the semester system from 2010 has run into rough weather. Three departments — English, Commerce and Economics — have rejected the semester system.

Delhi University's decision to implement the semester system from 2010 has run into rough weather. Three departments — English, Commerce and Economics — have rejected the semester system. Two others are mulling over the decision.
The university is also struggling to restructure the undergraduate courses to a semester pattern and weave in the concept of credits.

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“The university seems to have taken up too much on its plate. With teachers being non-corporative, the empowered committee that is looking into the implementation of the semester system is finding it difficult to move ahead,” a senior administrative official said on conditions of anonymity.

Speaking to HT, Vice Chancellor Deepak Pental brushed aside the concerns.

“A small number of teachers are opposing the system. There is no real threat in implementation,” said Pental. “It is sad to see teachers wasting their energy in obstructing a system which will has been recommended by Yashpal Committee and National Knowledge Commision.”

He added that the new system would facilitate interdisciplinary studies.

For instance, an English literature student could take up history, language or political science as a second subject for specialization.

The University's academic council passed the semester system on June 5 this year amid allegations that the vice chancellor was trying to forcibly implement the system. Subsequently, the academic council on November 10 approved the proposed structure of the semester system amid opposition from some members.

Proponents of the semester system argue that it will ensure student exchange programmes, continues evaluation and interdisciplinary courses.

But S.C. Panda, commerce teacher and member of the executive council felt a semester system would dilute the content of honours courses.

“The semester system will dilute the B.Com (Hons) course and the course will lose its credibility. Since it will be interdisciplinary, the course will lack specialization which is not compatible to the job market,” Panda argued.

Namita Paul, who teaches English in Kamla Nehru College pointed out the lack of infrastructure in the university for holding exams and evaluation.

But others like Rajiv Chopra, a commerce teacher of Aurobindo college felt that the semester system would broaden the horizon of knowledge among students.

“Students will gain more practical knowledge rather than just cramming. The teacher's workload will increase but when we are getting paid so well why should we not work hard?" asked Chopra.