The FIITJEE way to IIT
From a simple beginning as a forum for IIT-JEE to becoming a credible launch pad for JEE aspirants, FIITJEE has come a long way. In conversation with R.L. Trikha, FIITJEE’s director, KARISHMA HINGORANI finds out what makes the training work for students.
FIITJEE was formed by D. K. Goel, a Mechanical Engineering Graduate from IIT Delhi, in 1992. The success of their students at the JEE exams this year has added to their laurels. Before he joined FIITJEE, Mr. Trikha, who is an IIT Kanpur alumnus, worked in the steel industry.
How do you think the test patterns and the syllabus can be improved?
Back in 1961, papers were majorly subjective. As the number of candidates increased considerably, the examination was conducted in two stages. First, about 20,000 candidates were selected based on screening paper (P+C+M). Then, in-depth conceptual understanding of candidates was judged with a subjective paper (P+C+M) of three hours. After 2005, the pattern was changed to two objective papers with various types of questions with some questions carrying negative marks for wrong answers.
There is a need to go back to two-stage examination where in the first stage, candidates are selected through screening examination for IITs, NITs, IIITs, CFTIs and so on, and in the second stage, a subjective test is held for IIT aspirants. English language paper could also be introduced to select those who can contribute globally.
How can we combat gender bias in the selection process?
It’s the mentality and stigma. Engineering is considered more aligned with males in Indian society. Parents in India are more concerned with the marriage of their daughters than education. Ratio of female to male students is 6:12 who get selected/prepare for IIT entrance. This has nothing to do with IQ levels. We have to change our mentality. We have to encourage and motivate our daughters.
What are the challenges faced by an engineer in the real world?
Engineers have to learn and make themselves aware of the fields in which their knowledge of engineering will be applied. Customer needs have to be translated into optimum design which fulfils the quality and performance characteristics at optimum cost in optimum time. Tolerances will be dictated by the end use of the product. At an advanced level, one has to practically apply techniques of management and lead the team for achievement of collective goals. Besides being a good engineer, one has to be an expert economist and skilled in higher management techniques in order to lead the team from the front.
According to you, how can study materials be made effective?
By and focusing on the fundamentals.
Why should a person seek to pursue a career in this field?
Critical thinking and quantitative analysis are always in demand. It enables students to imbibe many skills that are useful globally. One can fit into the field of software and allied professions also. It’s necessary to follow the dictates of one’s conscience and pursue the career of one’s choice and aptitude.
At FIITJEE, is there a scheme for those from the poorer sections? Why do dropouts happen?
Under our Fortunate 40 scheme, we educate many deserving candidates whose parents earn less than Rs. 10,000 per month. Mostly, dropouts happen because of lack of revision and dedication.
Could you share some exam tips for students?
Have a goal and make sure it’s a realistic one. Know your potential. To become a successful engineer, you need focus, tenacity, hard work and determination.
FIITJEE was formed by D. K. Goel, a Mechanical Engineering Graduate from IIT Delhi, in 1992. The success of their students at the JEE exams this year has added to their laurels. Before he joined FIITJEE, Mr. Trikha, who is an IIT Kanpur alumnus, worked in the steel industry.
How do you think the test patterns and the syllabus can be improved?
Back in 1961, papers were majorly subjective. As the number of candidates increased considerably, the examination was conducted in two stages. First, about 20,000 candidates were selected based on screening paper (P+C+M). Then, in-depth conceptual understanding of candidates was judged with a subjective paper (P+C+M) of three hours. After 2005, the pattern was changed to two objective papers with various types of questions with some questions carrying negative marks for wrong answers.
There is a need to go back to two-stage examination where in the first stage, candidates are selected through screening examination for IITs, NITs, IIITs, CFTIs and so on, and in the second stage, a subjective test is held for IIT aspirants. English language paper could also be introduced to select those who can contribute globally.
How can we combat gender bias in the selection process?
It’s the mentality and stigma. Engineering is considered more aligned with males in Indian society. Parents in India are more concerned with the marriage of their daughters than education. Ratio of female to male students is 6:12 who get selected/prepare for IIT entrance. This has nothing to do with IQ levels. We have to change our mentality. We have to encourage and motivate our daughters.
What are the challenges faced by an engineer in the real world?
Engineers have to learn and make themselves aware of the fields in which their knowledge of engineering will be applied. Customer needs have to be translated into optimum design which fulfils the quality and performance characteristics at optimum cost in optimum time. Tolerances will be dictated by the end use of the product. At an advanced level, one has to practically apply techniques of management and lead the team for achievement of collective goals. Besides being a good engineer, one has to be an expert economist and skilled in higher management techniques in order to lead the team from the front.
According to you, how can study materials be made effective?
By and focusing on the fundamentals.
Why should a person seek to pursue a career in this field?
Critical thinking and quantitative analysis are always in demand. It enables students to imbibe many skills that are useful globally. One can fit into the field of software and allied professions also. It’s necessary to follow the dictates of one’s conscience and pursue the career of one’s choice and aptitude.
At FIITJEE, is there a scheme for those from the poorer sections? Why do dropouts happen?
Under our Fortunate 40 scheme, we educate many deserving candidates whose parents earn less than Rs. 10,000 per month. Mostly, dropouts happen because of lack of revision and dedication.
Could you share some exam tips for students?
Have a goal and make sure it’s a realistic one. Know your potential. To become a successful engineer, you need focus, tenacity, hard work and determination.
==================================
