G H Raisoni University

CBCS

Choice based credit system (CBCS), provides a learning platform wherein the student or knowledge seeker has the flexibility to choose their course from a list of elective, core and soft skill courses. This is a student-centric approach to learning or acquiring higher education.

The conventional system of Higher Education didn’t give much scope to students. The course and content was predefined, redundant and was not up- to date. For students to apply their knowledge base later in their work environment, business or life; the conventional isolated courses lacked contemporary appropriateness.

Choice Based Credit System not only opens pathways for learning opportunities but also manifest learning goals and objectives. CBCS follows a credit system which is attached to course components offered to students. A credit system for higher education measures various parameters like student performance, outcomes, entrepreneurship skills, contact hours, innovation and creativity talents, etc.

This CBCS system is an initiative of University Grants Commission (UGC); which enhances and promotes educational liberalization of existing conventional higher education models

Advantages of Choice Based Credit System (CBCS)

The student has an option to choose inter/multi-disciplinary courses too
Based on the IQ level of individual student; a mentor guides students to select courses.
It promotes group work, research and community involvement.
It gives prospects to the learner to earn certification through a walk-in/walk-out approach.
Provides students with greater flexibility in choice of courses
Students can choose courses at basic or advanced level
Learners acquire job oriented skills
Students progress at their own tempo
Highly motivated students get the chance to gain extra credits
CBCS System not only bridges the gap between professional and social exposure but provides holistic education.

Features Of CBCS System

Credits can be transferred if the student changes his/her branch of study.

CBCS is a step towards moving away from numerical marking to grading.

Grading minimizes the stigma of "fail".

The credit based grading system is considered desirable because it facilitates student mobility across institutions within the country and across other countries. Potential employers can thus assess performance of students, judicially.

The Meaning Of Choice Based Credit System (CBCS) In Brief

CHOICE BASED - Choice of multiple courses

GRADING - Marks secured is in letter grade format

SEMESTER - Learner- Teacher Engagement Quotient can be measured/ identified semester-wise

CREDIT - Class hours per week carries additional importance in credit system

ASSESSMENT - In the form of class room attendance, Mid Term Tests etc; is continuous and wide-ranging.

UGC has introduced a 10-point grading system as follows:

O (Outstanding)	10
A+ (Excellent)	9
A (Very Good)	8
B+ (Good)	7
B (Above Average)	6
C (Average)	5
P (Pass)	4
F (Fail)	0
Ab (Absent)	0

Credits are calculated keeping in mind the following components

Lecture (L)
Tutorial (T)
Practical (P)

The course may have all components of evaluation or combination of any two; listed above. Although CBCS system is tried and tested, it sometimes lacks accurate estimation of marks. Teachers are further challenged to keep pace with many courses. This system furthers confusion among students; as each student has a different timetable and course of study. Nonetheless, CBCS system is flexible and student - centric, this approach matches today’s demands of the student/learner community.