Implementation of semester system in mathematics education: Challenges and opportunity

Abstract

This is a qualitative research on the topic entitled “Implementation of Semester System in Mathematics Education: Challenges and Opportunity”. The objective of this study was to explore the existing practices of the semester system, the major challenges and opportunity of the semester system and process of making semester system students friendly. The study site of this research is Central Department of Mathematics Education, Tribhuvan University Kirtipur Kathmandu. Purposive sampling method was used to select representative respondent. Open and in-depth interview, classroom observation, and FGD, were the tools adopted for collection of information. The collected data were analyzed according to general inductive method and on the basis of my conceptual framework. The major findings of this research indicate it is necessary for students to qualify the entrance exam for admission in the Central Department of Mathematics Education which is conducted by Dean Office. Similarly, the number students enrolling in semester system has decreased. There is the practice of internal evaluation which is conducted by the teachers for 40 marks, out of the 100 marks with specific criteria. There is the practice of external evaluation which is conducted by the Dean Office for 60 marks, out of the 100 marks. Similarly, there is more utilization of the student centered methods and digital tools. The main challenges of semester are conducting delayed exams, lengthy course content, unavailability of curriculum-based books and experimental materials, copying and pasting the teachers notes, never explain the use and application of theorem, centralized practices of curriculum formation, less practice of open question in mathematics classroom etc. The main opportunity of semester system are study mathematics in Visualise Method by using various and advanced software’s, well-fascilitated ICT lab, learn different mathematical software’s like Geogebra, Mathematica, Latex etc.,large video conferencing studio, to Book Review, Writing, Seminar Paper, Literature Review, Proposal and Thesis, get scholarships provided by the UGC and being excellence researcher. It is found that making semester system students friendly need to focus on course content, full authenticity to the teachers, student-centered teaching methods, group works, allow students to present their seminar papers in a conference and timely exam according to the operational calendar formation by Dean office.