Reviving Computer Science Education in India: Solutions for a Brighter Future

As I reflect on the current state of education in India, particularly in the field of computer science, I am compelled to highlight several areas that require immediate attention and reform. The existing system is riddled with issues that hinder the growth and development of students, leading to undue stress, financial burdens, and a lack of true learning. In this article, I will discuss the problems plaguing our education system and propose feasible solutions to revamp it.

1. Problem of Competitive Exams and Student Suicides #kotaSuicides Competitive exams have long been the gatekeepers for entry into prestigious B.Tech programs. But is this the most equitable and effective way to identify promising talent in the field of computer science? In my opinion, it's time to reconsider this system. A more holistic approach could involve considering a student's performance in mathematics in their 12th-grade exams, a subject that plays a significant role in computer science. Requiring students to score above 90% in mathematics could be a fairer alternative, removing the need for them to spend years preparing for competitive exams.

2. Focusing on Quality Education Instead of concentrating solely on the quality of students, we should shift our focus to the quality of education they receive. The curriculum should prioritize understanding, critical thinking, and practical application over memorization. By rethinking the teaching methods and incorporating personalized education, we can foster a generation of computer scientists who are well-prepared for real-world challenges.

3. Addressing Stress and Mental Health: The intense pressure on students to perform in a short period should not be underestimated. We need to introduce measures that emphasize stress reduction and promote mental well-being. This might include more flexible examination schedules and learning environments that accommodate different needs.

4. Reimagining the Semester System: The conventional semester system forces students to juggle multiple subjects in a limited time frame. Why not allow students to focus on one subject intensely for a month (or more) and then move on to the next? This method could enhance depth of understanding and mastery.

5. Raising the Bar for Passing: The current system requires only 40% to pass, but why not aim higher, perhaps 80%? Failing to meet the bar shouldn't be the end; instead, students should have the freedom to reattempt exams whenever they feel ready. No of subjects should be reduced to the relevant ones only.

6. Evolving the Exam Structure: Our exams predominantly test knowledge. Ideally, they should focus more on understanding (70%), with a balanced mix of knowledge (15%) and application (15%). Questions should reflect the real-world skills and capabilities students need to succeed.

7. Encouraging Multiple Attempts: The stigma surrounding multiple attempts needs to disappear. Students should be allowed to schedule or reschedule/retake exams on monthly/weekly basis, and these attempts should not be disclosed on their transcripts. Learning from mistakes and persistence are keys to success. The semester system, where you have to repeat the entire year if you fail, continues to haunt me with occasional nightmares. I still see horror dreams when I find myself in that familiar, nerve-wracking scenario where my Microprocessor exam is just hours away, and I haven't studied a thing, even though it's been over 13 years since I completed my B.Tech degree.

8. Affordable Education: Higher education, especially a Computer Science degree, should ideally be affordable or even free. Education should not be a privilege but a right, and this change can transform society positively.

9. On-Demand Professors: Instead of hiring teachers and professors for higher education by default, we should consider an on-demand model to reduce costs. Students should have access to high-quality resources such as recorded lectures, textbooks, sample papers, etc., to pursue self-study and seek guidance when necessary. This may be optionally opted by some student to reduce the cost on their education.

10. Empowering Students: Mandatory attendance may not be suitable for all students. Exams should be open book (but at the exam canters with no internet/mobile access) and students should be allowed to refer their textbooks and notes during exams.

11. Online Education Revolution: In the digital age, why are we still bound to physical classrooms and traditional degrees? An online education system can provide more accessibility and flexibility, catering to the needs of a wider audience.

12. The Influence of Business and Politics: It's time to reconsider the interdependence of businesses and politicians on revenue generated by educational institutions. Education should be driven by a commitment to excellence, not financial gain.