By - Dr Asangba Tzudir
As colleges under Nagaland University embarks on the fourth year journey of FYUGP under the National Education Policy 2020, a critical decision awaits the students especially those who are going to start the fourth year — whether to opt for the 4th year with research or without research. This is going to be a very critical choice because it is going to shape the very foundation of a student’s future path, be it professional, scholarly, or otherwise. As such, this decision needs to be approached with clarity, and a sense of purpose.
Firstly, the 4th year with research, (which has an eligibility criteria of 75% in the course of the six semesters, and for those who qualify and also interested), is for those who envision a future in academics and related career. The honours with research year include writing a research dissertation under a supervisor, and which will also help prepare students for doctoral studies. At a young age, even before graduation or masters, such a student will be introduced to the rigors of academics and research which demands making in-depth inquiries and critical thinking. Considering the 75% requirement, only those students with a consistent academic record will be able to qualify, but the greatest challenge will be the question of having research ability and a mind that has a passion for asking difficult questions while being able to think out of the box and analyze complex problems while also explore unexplored areas within their discipline.
However, beyond the mere acquirement of grades, the research dissertation which is for 12 credits will require students to be very disciplined enough to do routine work and be ready to work long hours independently which will include reading, writing, editing, revising, and even dealing with dead ends. Those who are unsure of their research interests or are still exploring different fields may find this path intense or restricting and will be greatly discouraged.
Coming to the non-Research Path, the fourth year without research, on the other hand can be considered to be more flexible comparatively and will traverse a similar path like in the preceding semesters with focus on discipline specific core (DSC) and minor. This is more suitable for students who aim to enter the workforce or pursue professional careers other than which requires research, but which are directly applicable to industries, public sector service, entrepreneurship, or creative fields.
There can be a tendency where the 4th year with research may be taken as the ultimate or superior than the 4th year without research. However, to go for the 4th year without research does not make a student less accomplished. Instead, it only opens various career paths that does not require a research orientation. Generally and preferably, many students will desire hands-on learning or may want to diversify their knowledge base instead of committing to a single research dissertation work.
Easier said than done, because of the uncertainty of career choices and job prospects, the decision is not an easy one. However, it should be based on personal alignment in consideration of what one loves to do, and also good at. If one is not certain about the 4th year with research, some key pointers are - having the passion for research and academic writing; having a specific area to explore in depth; whether to pursue a master’s or PhD soon after graduation. In this regard career counseling and mentoring plays a pivotal role here so that the individual can make well informed decisions what are tailored to an individual’s aptitudes and aspirations.
However, it is also important for institutions to provide equitable resources and guidance for both so that a student can prepare well for whichever track is taken, and that students do not feel that research path is better than the non-research path. Rather, both must be seen as equally ‘entertaining’ academic enterprise suited for different goals.
While the FYUGP strives for holistic education its success depends on how students are empowered to navigate their choices. Choosing between the 4th year with or without research is not about choosing a harder or easier road, but choosing a road that best leads to one’s true destination. With a clear mind, an honest self reflection is imperative. And along with sound guidance as well as institutional support, students can make well informed decisions without fear or confusion but with confidence and clarity.
(Dr Asangba Tzudir writes a weekly guest editorial for The Morung Express. Comments can be emailed to asangtz@gmail.com)
