Teachers to be trained in credit system

The faculties of all three streams — arts, science and commerce — have approved the credit and semester system at the under graduate and post graduate level for the University of Mumbai from this June.

The faculties of all three streams — arts, science and commerce — have approved the credit and semester system at the under graduate and post graduate level for the University of Mumbai from this June.

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Now, the proposal will go to the academic and management council for an official nod.

The credit system, similar to those in international universities, will take into account a student’s performance throughout the entire duration of the course and not just a final exam.

“The new system will enable a science student to take up elective subjects to complete his credits,” said S.B. Patil, dean of science at Mumbai University. “For example, a chemistry student can opt for information technology, apart from his three core subjects of physics, chemistry and mathematics. The system will open a lot of avenues for students,” he added.

University officials are hoping to soon allow interdisciplinary study. “Once the system runs smoothly, we will all allow students to move across streams. For example, a commerce student can study chemistry or history,” said Siddheshwar Gadade, dean, commerce faculty.

The university will now conduct workshops for college heads and teachers so that the implementation process is smooth

The University Grants Commission in 2007 directed all vice chancellors to adopt semester system and go in for choice-based credit system (CBCS).

It also stated that grants would be directly proportional to the implementation of the academic and administrative reforms suggested by it.

When varsities in Maharashtra did not act upon the directive, the state government pulled them up and linked its annual grants to the implementation of CBCS.

According to the UGC, close to 70 universities have so far agreed to adopt the new system. Many central and state varsities have already implemented CBCS. The commission funds 180 universities across India.