Course Gap Identification – SOP

COURSE GAP IDENTIFICATION

Preamble

In pursuit of academic excellence and professional development, this SOP elucidates the identification of gaps in the curriculum (Course Gap Identification) as an integral component of the academic process. The overarching goal is to ensure that the educational journey within the chosen program aligns with the latest industry trends and standards, contributing to the attainment of broader educational objectives.

Purpose

Course Gap Identification aims to articulate the gaps between the current curriculum and the industry demands, thereby enabling the program to bridge those gaps and provide students with a comprehensive and up-to-date education.

Scope

Course Gap Identification serves as a testament to the institution’s commitment to continuous improvement and recognition of the dynamic nature of the professional landscape. It ensures that the educational journey shapes professionals who contribute meaningfully to the broader societal and professional landscape.

Procedure

(Sequential Steps and Flow Chart): The Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Course Gap Identification is done at 3 levels:

The Curriculum Gap Analysis Based on University Syllabus

  1. Identify the courses/subjects for which the course curriculum comparison needs to be done.
  2. For each identified course, collect the latest syllabus from the following institutions:
    1. Any 1 Central Government University
    2. Any 1 Tamil Nadu State Government University
    3. Any 1 State Government University other than Tamil Nadu
    4. Any 1 Deemed University
    5. Any 1 Institute of National Importance (like IIT, NIT, IIM, etc.)
  3. Compare the syllabus of the identified course with the syllabi from the above institutions, focusing on the major topics from each unit.
  4. If any topic is missing in the university’s syllabus compared to the other institutions, mark it as “content beyond the syllabus.”
  5. Identify the areas where the university’s curriculum lags compared to the other institutions.
  6. Prepare a report highlighting the gaps in the syllabus, mentioning the topics/content that need to be added or updated.
  7. Submit the completed report to the designated authorities for further action.
  8. Follow up on the recommendations and ensure that the necessary updates are made to the course curriculum to bridge the identified gaps.

Gaps Based on CO Attainment

Identify the gaps in the CO-PO mapping based on the curriculum gaps.

    1. Plan and execute activities to bridge the identified curriculum gaps, such as workshops, industry-institute interactions, online courses, socially relevant projects, and publishing technical magazines/newsletters.
    2. The Academic Committee/ CO-PO Committee, chaired by the Academic Co-ordinator and senior faculty members, will oversee the entire process.

Gaps in PO Attainment Level

1.The Program Committee (PC) comprises of program coordinators, subject experts, and senior faculty members under the Academic Committee to evaluate the attainment of Program Outcomes (POs).
2.The Program Committee, in collaboration with the Academic Committee, should:
  • Identify and define the direct and indirect assessment tools/methods for evaluating the attainment of POs. Direct methods may include course-embedded assessments, projects, and comprehensive exams, while indirect methods may involve surveys, exit interviews, and employer feedback.
  • Develop a comprehensive assessment plan, specifying the assessment tools, target performance levels, and a timeline for data collection and analysis. (Current Quiz, Case Study, Seminars, Simulation)
  • Collect and analyze data from the identified assessment tools to evaluate the attainment levels of POs.
  • Identify any gaps or areas where the attainment levels fall short of the target performance levels.
  • Conduct a gap analysis to determine the root causes of the identified gaps. This may involve analyzing factors such as curriculum design, teaching methodologies, and learning resources.
  • Develop an action plan to address the identified gaps. This may include: (i)Content beyond the syllabus to align with industry needs and address gaps in POs. (ii)Pedagogical improvements, such as incorporating active learning strategies or technology-enhanced teaching methods. (iii)Additional learning activities, such as workshops, seminars, or industry collaborations. (iv)Faculty development programs to enhance teaching and assessment practices.
  • Implement the action plan and monitor its effectiveness through continuous assessment and review.
  • Document and maintain records of the assessment process, results, and action plans.
  • Establish a feedback loop to continuously improve the program based on the assessment results and stakeholder inputs.
3. The Program Committee may invite subject matter experts (SMEs) or industry representatives to provide insights and recommendations on aligning the program with industry standards and requirements.
4. The Academic Committee should oversee and support the Program Committee’s efforts in evaluating and improving the attainment of POs.

This SOP aims to ensure that the curriculum remains up-to-date and aligns with the standards of reputed institutions.

The Curriculum Gap Analysis

Gaps Based on University Syllabus

Prepared By: Approved By: