The establishment of IGNOU, the Indira Gandhi National Open University, could be said to be one of the largest open universities in the world, because it provides distance education and contributes to open education for millions of students across India and outside. The vastness of this university makes it highly unique, and hence it is equally important for students to learn about the evaluation and grading system of IGNOU so that they remain aware of their academic progression and can glide through their educational journey with the utmost ease. The article provides an insight into the processes and activities involving evaluation and grading at IGNOU.
General Perspective on the Establishment of the Evaluation System by IGNOU
The objective of the evaluation system in force at IGNOU is to measure the knowledge level and understanding of the student through a variety of assessment patterns. The actual workings of the evaluation system could be generally treated as being composed of two parts:
Continuous Assessment (CA) consists of tests, assignments, and project work designed to assess continuous student activities in the entire academic terms.
The Terminal Examination (TEE), held at the end of academic sessions, aims to assess students’ general perceptibility of the course material.
This whole functioning, working in harmony, truly is one of the best and most holistic ways of evaluation of the students concerning knowledge and its application in the real world.
Components of Evaluation at IGNOU
The IGNOU evaluation system works with the following basic elements:
Assignments
Assignments are a critical part of continuous assessment. Normally, students should do Assignments in every course and submit them for appearing in the Term-End Examination. The assignments are made available for download on the IGNOU website and change from one academic session to the other.
Weightage: 30% of Total Marks.
Submission Limit: Different for every academic session but is typically a few weeks prior to TEE.
Term-End Examination (TEE).
The institution conducts the TEE two times a year in June and December. Candidates must register for the exam if they fulfill all other eligibility conditions, such as timely assignment submission.
Weightage: 70% of Total Marks.
The Paper-Pencil Test is conducted in designated centers.
Project Work and Practical Examinations.
Some programs, mainly in the management, science, and social work fields, include project work or practical. They serve to measure the practical application of theoretical knowledge by students in real-life situations.
Weightage: Varies as per the program.
Evaluation Types: Evaluation is done by academic supervisors and external papers.
Grading System of IGNOU
IGNOU introduces multiple systems of grades to show the performance of students in a certain course. The grading system is 10-point, which is generally employed in most programs.
Letter Grades and Grade Points
Letter Grade Grade Point Percentage Range (%)
A 5 80% and Above
B 4 60% to 79%
C 3 50% to 59%
D 2 40% to 49%
E (Fail) 1 Below 40%
Thus, to clear a subject for passing in the course, a student should earn at least a minimum grade of ‘D’ in the Assignments and Term-End Examination.
Development in Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) Compilation
The CGPA is weighted—for grade points earned against each course completed by a student. The CGPA Calculation is as follows:
Passing Conditions and Eligibility
The following are the required criteria for a student to pass a course:
Assignments: at least 40%
Term-End Examination: minimum of 40%
Aggregate: Minimum overall marks of 40% in assignments and TEE
If the student does not qualify in any of the above three criteria for passing, he shall need to appear again for assessment in the concerned area.
Review Procedures
A student can apply for re-evaluation if that student is not satisfied with the TEE results. This re-evaluation process is done transparently and fairly provided to the students who want their grades improved.
Conditions for Re-evaluation
Only available under TEE-not for practicals or assignments.
Must be applied for within one month of the declaration of results.
There is a nominal charge per course for re-evaluation.
Result of Re-evaluation
Re-evaluation can lead to an increase or decrease in marks. The final marks will be those earned in re-evaluation and no further re-evaluations will be entertained.
Improvement Exam
The improvement examination is for those students who wish to improve on their performance. This is available to students under certain conditions.
Qualification for Improvement Examination
Must apply within a defined time after finishing the course of study.
Only applies to theory papers; not to practicals or project work.
General Conditions and Financial Requirements
One attempt for improvement per course is allowed by the students.
For each course, a separate fee will be charged for re-registration and improvement.
Considerations of Special Cases
There are some special provisions on IGNOU evaluation system for differently-abled students, like extra time in examination and other sorts of assessment when necessary.
Re-Evaluation and Improvement
For students desiring to have their TEE marks reviewed, IGNOU has a provision for re-evaluation:
Submission: Within 30 days from the date of declaration of result
Fees: The institution will charge a nominal fee for re-evaluation per course.
Outcome of Re-evaluation: The authorities may increase or decrease the marks and will amend the final score accordingly.
For those desiring to enhance their grades, they can re-register in selected courses.
Grievance Redress Mechanism
IGNOU offers a grievance redressal facility in order to resolve issues concerning evaluation and grading. Students can contact their regional centre or log on to the online grievance portal for prompt redressal of their grievances.
Best Practices for Students to Achieve Academic Excellence
Students who wish to excel in IGNOU evaluation should adopt the following best practices.
On Time Submission: Submission of assignments and project works on time.
Regular Study: A fixed study schedule often helped to master the course material.
Clear Issues: Seek assistance from an academic counselor and peer group to gain a more comprehensive understanding.
Mock Exams: Solve old TEE examination papers to get a feel for the exam.
Conclusion
It is such a policy by itself that will help students to understand evaluation and grading at IGNOU so that an academic environment will become conducive for learning. With such an understanding of continuous assessment, term-end examinations, and grading, students will be able to prepare and approach their studies strategically to achieve their aims for academic achievement. With hard work and, most importantly, proper planning, a student’s life with the IGNOU process becomes very simple and rewarding.