Mumbai: A year after initiating reforms in the teaching-learning process, the premier IIT-Bombay is now looking at introducing changes to its conventional assessment methods as well. Institute officials said the idea is to widen the approach to assessment to recognise different kinds of learners and talents, while ensuring that the grading structure continues to acknowledge the role it plays in placements. The institute will partner with the Faculty Alumni Network (FAN), a network of IIT-Bombay alumni in faculty positions at leading institutions abroad.Last year, the institute decided to begin implementing the academic reforms with younger faculty. These included practices such as shared contextual learning, field exposure-based classroom exercises, among others. “Of the 760+ faculty members, around 20% have already gone through various training workshops and are taking steps towards introducing these changes. While these revised methods are gradually gaining ground, the institute has also recognised the need to address revisions in the assessment system,” said Director, Prof Shireesh Kedare.Around 14 senior faculty members recently met to discuss IIT-B’s current assessment system. A professor said, “The aim will be to recognise high-performing students and also ensure that strengths and varied talents of students are appreciated and recorded.” He added that the changes will not follow a one-size-fits-all model. Instead, departments will adopt approaches suited to their specific academic requirements.“Currently, we are brainstorming, trying to understand the best international practices. One of the ideas floated included conducting a comprehensive exam at the end of the six semesters to check if students are able to synthesize the knowledge they have gathered for self assessment,” he said.The Parimal and Pramod Chaudhari Centre for Teaching and Learning will act as a hub to strengthen teaching, learning and assessment practices. The centre will be working on eight different verticals, including one on early-alert systems and engagement support.
