NEP 2020 Compliant Curriculum Structure: An Overview of First Year Engineering at Savitribai Phule Pune University
Introduction
The introduction of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 in India has been a significant milestone, aiming to overhaul the Indian education system and make it more holistic, flexible, multidisciplinary, aligned to the needs of the 21st century, and aimed at bringing out the unique capabilities of each student. Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU), located in Pune, Maharashtra, has been at the forefront of implementing this policy, particularly in the Faculty of Science and Technology. This blog provides an in-depth overview of the NEP 2020 compliant curriculum structure for the first year of engineering, which will be effective from the academic year 2024-25.
First Year Engineering (2024 Pattern) Syllabus Link
Curriculum Structure Overview
The NEP 2020 compliant curriculum for first-year engineering at SPPU is designed to provide a balanced mix of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The curriculum is spread over two semesters, with a well-defined credit system and a comprehensive evaluation scheme. Here's a detailed look at the courses and their structure.
Semester I
1. Engineering Mathematics-I (ESC101)
- Type: Basic Science Course
- Teaching Scheme: 3 hours of theory, 1 hour of tutorial per week
- Examination Scheme: 30 marks for Comprehensive Continuous Evaluation (CCE), 70 marks for End-Semester Exam
- Credits: 4
Engineering Mathematics-I is foundational for engineering students, covering essential mathematical concepts and techniques used in various engineering fields.
2. Engineering Physics / Engineering Chemistry (ESC102/ESC103)
- Type: Basic Science Course
- Teaching Scheme: 3 hours of theory, 2 hours of practical per week
- Examination Scheme: 30 marks for CCE, 70 marks for End-Semester Exam, 25 marks for Term Work
- Credits: 4
Students can choose between Engineering Physics and Engineering Chemistry, both of which are crucial for understanding the scientific principles underlying engineering practices.
3. Basic Electronics Engineering / Basic Electrical Engineering (ETC104/ELE105)
- Type: Engineering Science Course
- Teaching Scheme: 2 hours of theory, 2 hours of practical per week
- Examination Scheme: 30 marks for CCE, 70 marks for End-Semester Exam, 25 marks for Term Work
- Credits: 3
This course introduces students to the basics of electronics and electrical engineering, laying the groundwork for more advanced topics in these fields.
4. Engineering Graphics / Engineering Mechanics (MEC106/CVL107)
- Type: Engineering Science Course
- Teaching Scheme: 2 hours of theory, 2 hours of practical per week
- Examination Scheme: 30 marks for CCE, 70 marks for End-Semester Exam, 25 marks for Term Work
- Credits: 3
Students will learn the fundamentals of engineering graphics or mechanics, which are essential for visualizing and analyzing engineering problems.
5. Fundamentals of Programming Languages (COM108)
- Type: Engineering Science Course
- Teaching Scheme: 2 hours of theory, 2 hours of practical per week
- Examination Scheme: 30 marks for CCE, 70 marks for End-Semester Exam, 25 marks for Term Work
- Credits: 3
This course introduces programming languages, emphasizing logical thinking and problem-solving skills.
6. Manufacturing Practice Workshop / Design Thinking and Idea Lab (VSE109/VSE110)
- Type: Vocational and Skill Enhancement Course
- Teaching Scheme: 2 hours of practical per week
- Examination Scheme: 25 marks for Term Work
- Credits: 1
These practical courses are designed to enhance students' vocational skills and creativity through hands-on workshops and design thinking exercises.
7. Professional Communication Skills (AEC111)
- Type: Ability Enhancement Course
- Teaching Scheme: 2 hours of tutorial per week
- Examination Scheme: 25 marks for Term Work
- Credits: 2
Professional communication skills are crucial for engineers, and this course focuses on developing these essential skills.
8. Co-Curricular Course-I (CCC112)
- Type: Co-Curricular Courses
- Teaching Scheme: 4 hours of practical per week
- Examination Scheme: 25 marks for Term Work
- Credits: 2
Co-curricular activities play a significant role in the holistic development of students, and this course provides various opportunities for such engagement.
Semester II
1. Engineering Mathematics-II (ESC113)
- Type: Basic Science Course
- Teaching Scheme: 3 hours of theory, 1 hour of tutorial per week
- Examination Scheme: 30 marks for CCE, 70 marks for End-Semester Exam
- Credits: 4
Building on the first semester, this course delves deeper into mathematical concepts relevant to engineering.
2. Engineering Chemistry / Engineering Physics (ESC103/ESC102)
- Type: Basic Science Course
- Teaching Scheme: 3 hours of theory, 2 hours of practical per week
- Examination Scheme: 30 marks for CCE, 70 marks for End-Semester Exam, 25 marks for Term Work
- Credits: 4
Continuing from the first semester, students can further explore either chemistry or physics, enhancing their understanding of scientific principles.
3. Basic Electrical Engineering / Basic Electronics Engineering (ELE105/ETC104)
- Type: Engineering Science Course
- Teaching Scheme: 2 hours of theory, 2 hours of practical per week
- Examination Scheme: 30 marks for CCE, 70 marks for End-Semester Exam, 25 marks for Term Work
- Credits: 3
Students can choose to deepen their knowledge in either electrical or electronics engineering.
4. Engineering Mechanics / Engineering Graphics (CVL107/MEC106)
- Type: Engineering Science Course
- Teaching Scheme: 2 hours of theory, 2 hours of practical per week
- Examination Scheme: 30 marks for CCE, 70 marks for End-Semester Exam, 25 marks for Term Work
- Credits: 3
This course continues from the first semester, focusing on either mechanics or graphics.
5. Programming and Problem Solving (ITT114)
- Type: Program Core Course
- Teaching Scheme: 2 hours of theory, 2 hours of practical per week
- Examination Scheme: 30 marks for CCE, 70 marks for End-Semester Exam, 25 marks for Term Work
- Credits: 3
This course emphasizes problem-solving skills using programming, a critical competency for engineers.
6. Design Thinking and Idea Lab / Manufacturing Practice Workshop (VSE110/VSE109)
- Type: Vocational and Skill Enhancement Course
- Teaching Scheme: 2 hours of practical per week
- Examination Scheme: 25 marks for Term Work
- Credits: 1
These practical courses continue to build vocational skills and encourage innovative thinking.
7. Indian Knowledge System (IKS115)
- Type: Indian Knowledge System
- Teaching Scheme: 2 hours of tutorial per week
- Examination Scheme: 25 marks for Term Work
- Credits: 2
This course introduces students to the rich heritage and knowledge systems of India, fostering a deeper cultural understanding.
8. Co-Curricular Course-II (CCC116)
- Type: Co-Curricular Courses
- Teaching Scheme: 4 hours of practical per week
- Examination Scheme: 25 marks for Term Work
- Credits: 2
Similar to the first semester, this course provides opportunities for students to engage in co-curricular activities, promoting overall development.
Key Features of the Curriculum
1. Holistic Education
The NEP 2020 emphasizes a holistic approach to education, which is evident in the first-year engineering curriculum at SPPU. The inclusion of courses such as Professional Communication Skills, Indian Knowledge System, and Co-Curricular Courses ensures that students are not just technically proficient but also well-rounded individuals.
2. Flexibility and Choice
The curriculum offers flexibility and choice to students, allowing them to select between courses like Engineering Physics and Engineering Chemistry, or Basic Electronics Engineering and Basic Electrical Engineering. This flexibility helps students tailor their education to their interests and career goals.
3. Emphasis on Practical Skills
Practical skills are a critical component of the curriculum, with numerous courses incorporating laboratory and workshop sessions. The Vocational and Skill Enhancement Courses, in particular, are designed to provide hands-on experience and enhance employability.
4. Continuous Evaluation
The Comprehensive Continuous Evaluation (CCE) system ensures that students are assessed regularly, promoting consistent performance and reducing the stress associated with end-semester examinations. This system also allows for a more nuanced evaluation of students' understanding and skills.
5. Multidisciplinary Approach
The inclusion of courses from various disciplines, such as the Indian Knowledge System and Professional Communication Skills, aligns with the NEP 2020's vision of a multidisciplinary education. This approach helps students develop a broader perspective and fosters critical thinking.
Implementation and Impact
The implementation of the NEP 2020 compliant curriculum at SPPU is expected to have a profound impact on engineering education. By aligning the curriculum with the goals of NEP 2020, SPPU aims to produce engineers who are not only technically skilled but also adaptable, innovative, and socially responsible.
1. Enhanced Employability
The emphasis on practical skills, continuous evaluation, and holistic education is likely to enhance the employability of graduates. Students will be better prepared to meet the demands of the industry and contribute effectively to the workforce.
2. Promotion of Innovation
Courses like Design Thinking and Idea Lab encourage creativity and innovation, essential qualities for engineers in the modern world. This focus on innovation will help students develop the ability to think outside the box and solve complex problems.
3. Cultural Awareness
The inclusion of the Indian Knowledge System course fosters a deeper understanding of India's rich heritage and knowledge traditions. This cultural awareness can inspire students to draw on traditional wisdom and practices in their professional lives.
4. Comprehensive Development
By providing a balanced mix of technical and non-technical courses, the curriculum promotes the comprehensive development of students. This approach ensures that graduates are not only skilled engineers but also effective communicators, critical thinkers, and responsible citizens.
Conclusion
The NEP 2020 compliant curriculum for the first year of engineering at Savitribai Phule Pune University represents a significant step forward in engineering education. By integrating the principles of NEP 2020, the curriculum aims to create a more holistic, flexible, and multidisciplinary learning environment. This approach not only equips students with the technical skills required for their careers but also prepares them to be innovative, culturally aware, and socially responsible individuals. As the curriculum takes effect from the academic year 2024-25, it holds the promise of transforming the landscape of engineering education at SPPU and setting a benchmark for institutions across the country.