In a significant move to boost student support and participation in online learning, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has introduced a new framework that allows universities to conduct examinations for courses offered through the Study Webs of Active Learning for Young Aspiring Minds (SWAYAM) platform. This development marks a shift from the traditional practice, where end-term proctored examinations for SWAYAM courses were conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) and the National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL).
Key Highlights:
- Exams at Universities: Under the new framework, students who complete SWAYAM courses can opt to take their exams at their respective universities instead of the centralized exams conducted by NTA and NPTEL. This is expected to provide greater flexibility and ease for students integrating online courses with their regular academic programs.
- Nodal Officer Requirement: Universities adopting this framework must appoint a nodal officer to manage the registration, examination, and credit transfer processes for SWAYAM courses.
- Guidance Documents: To assist universities in implementing this new system, the UGC has provided two key documents:
- ‘Steps for Adopting SWAYAM MOOC Courses’
- ‘University Dashboard User Guide’
- Retest Provisions: The framework also includes provisions for re-examinations, allowing students who did not pass or could not attend the initial exams to retake them in subsequent semesters.
- Credit Transfer: The credits earned through SWAYAM courses can be transferred to students’ transcripts, enhancing the flexibility of earning academic credits via online platforms.
UGC’s Vision:
UGC Chairman M. Jagadesh Kumar emphasized that the new framework will enhance learner-friendliness and increase participation in SWAYAM courses. He encouraged all Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to adopt SWAYAM courses and utilize the framework for conducting exams.
The initiative is part of the UGC’s ongoing efforts to make online learning more accessible and integrated with traditional education. The decision follows a series of discussions and meetings with HEIs, highlighting the growing interest in adopting SWAYAM courses and the need for a more student-friendly examination process.
