EMRC Mysore Hosts Discussion on SWAYAM MOOCs for July�December 2025 Semester

EMRC Mysore Hosts Discussion on SWAYAM MOOCs for July–December 2025 Semester

A crucial discussion programme on the upcoming July–December 2025 semester of SWAYAM MOOCs was convened at 3:30 PM on June 26, 2025, at the Edusat Hall, EMRC Mysore. The meeting was held as per the standing instructions of the Consortium for Educational Communication (CEC), New Delhi, and was chaired by Prof. Sapna, Director, EMRC Mysore.

In her opening remarks, Prof. Sapna stressed the urgent need for enhanced publicity and outreach of the MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) being offered in the new semester. She called upon all Course Coordinators (CCs) to record fresh and engaging introductory videos for each course scheduled to go live in July 2025. “The visibility of our courses needs to improve significantly if we are to increase enrolment and participation. Publicity must be more vigorous,” she emphasized.

Prof. Sapna also highlighted the low turnout of students for the online weekly classes and final examinations, urging faculty to reflect on and rectify the lapses. “Despite the quality content, the number of exam aspirants remains disappointing. Weekly sessions must be conducted without fail, and reports submitted regularly,” she added.

Dr Sanappa CC Applied Entomology and Dr Krishna Kumar CC for Agricultural Geography raised a key concern during the meeting was the examination fee structure. Currently, the fee stands at ?750 for a single paper on SWYAM Platform, whereas in University the students pay ?2,500 for seven papers. Participants collectively agreed that the high cost may be a deterrent for many students and suggested fee reduction to improve participation.

In terms of academic integration, it was proposed that one MOOC should be made mandatory for every undergraduate student, similar to AICTE's requirement for engineering students to complete three MOOCs during their program. This recommendation was well-received as a measure to improve digital learning competencies among degree students.

The issue of Course Coordinator availability was also discussed. It was suggested that in cases where the CC cannot continue as CC, then, the Subject Matter Expert (SME) of the MOOC can take over as CC upon submission of a written request by the CC, who is unable to continue. This move is expected to ensure course continuity and quality.

A notable concern raised by attendees was the non-reflection of earned credits in students’ marks cards, which undermines the academic value of the MOOCs. Participants urged that mechanisms be put in place to officially credit MOOCs in academic transcripts.

Dr Shiva Prasad, CC for Business Statistics ,questioned the possibility of converting existing MOOCs into Faculty Development Programmes (FDPs) was explored, Dr. Mahesha , Production Assistant, pointed out that such a move is not viable under the current guidelines, as AICTE has its own approved FDPs. Dr. Shivprasad clarified that any such change would require a policy-level decision.

Adding to the discussion, Dr. Maheshan, CC for Computer Application in Business also stated that national-level publicity of the MOOCs could help diversify the student pool and ensure broader reach. Dr. Rajeshwari CC for Indian Economy, proposed the idea of allowing students to appear for SWAYAM exams at their own colleges, which could further encourage participation and reduce logistical challenges.

The meeting concluded with a consensus that stronger promotional strategies, regular academic engagement, and institutional coordination are essential to improving the reach, impact, and academic value of SWAYAM MOOCs.