ePG Pathshala in the works

Postgraduate students of more than 30 disciplines will soon be able to tap an online repository of free, multimedia-enriched self-instructional modules being developed under a government project. The proposed ePG Pathshala website is expected to complement the classroom teaching-learning process.

As part of the Central-government’s National Mission on Education through Information and Communication Technology, higher education regulator University Grants Commission has roped in experts from around the country to create e-content for 77 subjects ranging from computer science to philosophy. The first phase of the R84-crore project would cover 35 disciplines, with material being developed for 16 papers per subject, says Ashok K Bakhshi, who’s on the UGC-appointed standing committee and one of the national coordinators of the project.

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The portal is expected to let the user self-study, self-assess and explore more through suggested links. The aim is to include e-text (web-based notes, e-books, etc), historical backgrounds to different topics, points to ponder, animations, simulations, virtual labs, quizzes with feedback, multiple choice questions with answers and explanations, audio/video lectures, glossary, and web links, informs Bakhshi. The material would be based on UGC curricula, he says.

“In about two months from now, some work will be uploaded on the website,” says Bakhshi. The e-content “must be able to cater to” the needs of college and universities teaching through various modes — conventional, open and distance and virtual.

Global English test Aptis launched

The British Council has launched Aptis, an innovative global English assessment tool for organisations and institutions around the world. It evaluates English reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. It can be delivered by computer, telephone, or pen and paper, and results are available in as little as 24 hours. Candidates can also access Aptis from remote locations around the world.