High Impact move by AICTE - Maths and Physics no longer compulsory for entry into Engineering stream
This controversial statement has caused quite a stir in the academic circle as Maths and Physics in classes XI and XII form the foundation for advanced studies in these subjects under Engineering. Bridge courses as suggested by AICTE are actually for weaker students and CANNOT compensate for the advanced Maths and Physics at secondary level.
Mar 12, 2021, 16:13 IST
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"Without Physics and Mathematics at secondary level, the fundamental understanding of Science will be very poort. Without a strong foundation in Science, future Engineers will not be adequately academically equipped, which will affect innovation" - Rita John, Madras University.
The recent statement of AICTE regarding engineering has caused quite a stir and has perturbed experts in the engineering field. AICTE has announced that Physics and Maths will not be mandatory for the 12th standard students aspiring to be engineers, as mentioned in its approval process handbook for 2021-22, where the eligibility criteria for UG admissions has seen this sudden and surprising change.
Can there be engineering without a strong foundation in these 2 main subjects when Maths teaches reasoning and without Physics the fundamental understanding of science will be extremely poor!!
AICTE said that the universities will offer suitable bridge courses such as Physics, Maths and engineering drawing for students coming from diverse backgrounds to achieve learning outcomes of the programme. This amendment from AICTE has invited criticism and experts have argued that Maths and Physics are extremely essential for engineering students.
“It is not the question of optional. The choice of three mandatory courses required as input to engineering education are expanded and hence for different disciplines there could be different three mandatory courses. If a student without Maths is admitted, he will be required to do a lot Math courses in 1st year. This will bring in a lot flexibility in line with National Education policy and in the new system of 5+3+3+4 there will be no arts, science and commerce streams. But for engineering, one will need Maths and Physics.” - Anil Shahasrabudhe, Chairman AICTE
This controversial move by AICTE applies to BE and BTech courses from academic session 2021-22. It may be noted that at present Physics and Mathematics are compulsory for undergraduate programmes in engineering and technology.
As per the amended handbook released by AICTE, students have to pass 10+2 with any of the 3 subjects-Physics, Maths, Chemistry, Computer Science, IT, Electronics, Biology, Information practices, Bio-Tech, Technical Vocational subject, Engineering Graphics, Agriculture, Business Studies, Entrepreneurship. Candidates must score 45 percent marks (general category) and 40 percent is the criteria for the reserved category.
The experts say that bridge courses are remedial courses for those who are weak in Mathematics. These courses cannot replace higher-secondary level mathematics. They also emphasized that Maths and Physics have to be compulsory for engineering.
Professors say that Maths used to be taught in 7 out of 8 semesters and those students are good in engineering. The move by AICTE has is being criticised and must be looked into thoroughly.
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