In Bangladesh, the majority of public universities follow a closed credit system, while most private universities follow an open credit system. In a closed credit system, students are required to take a predetermined set of courses in a specific order. In an open credit system, students have more flexibility in choosing the courses they want to take and the order in which they take them.
There are pros and cons to both systems. Proponents of the closed credit
system argue that it provides students with a clear structure and guidance, and
it helps to ensure that they have a solid foundation in the core subjects of
their discipline. Critics of the closed credit system argue that it is too
rigid and does not allow students to explore their interests or develop their
own unique academic path.
Proponents of the open credit system argue that it gives students more
freedom and flexibility and allows them to tailor their education to their
individual needs and goals. Critics of the open credit system argue that it can
be overwhelming for students, especially first-year students, and that it can
lead to students taking courses that are not necessary or relevant to their
major.
First, the open credit system is more aligned with the needs of the 21st
century workforce. In today's global economy, employers are looking for
employees who are adaptable, creative, and have a broad range of skills and
knowledge. The open credit system allows students to develop these skills by
giving them the flexibility to explore different subjects and disciplines.
Second, the open credit system is more suited to the learning styles of
Bangladeshi students. Bangladeshi students are generally very good at
memorizing information, but they often struggle with critical thinking and
problem-solving skills. The open credit system encourages students to think
critically and to apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-world
problems.
Third, the open credit system is more likely to produce graduates who
are ready for the challenges of the future. In today's rapidly changing world,
it is more important than ever for graduates to be able to learn quickly and
adapt to new situations. The open credit system helps students develop these
skills by giving them the opportunity to take courses that are relevant to the
latest trends and developments in their field.
Dr. Mohammad Kaykobad, a professor of education at Dhaka University,
agrees that the open credit system is better suited for Bangladeshi
undergraduate students. He says, "The open credit system gives students
more freedom and flexibility, and it allows them to tailor their education to
their individual needs and goals. This is especially important in today's
world, where the job market is constantly changing and graduates need to be
adaptable and have a broad range of skills and knowledge."
The open credit system is more suited for Bangladeshi undergraduate
students because it is more aligned with the needs of the 21st century
workforce, it is more suited to the learning styles of Bangladeshi students,
and it is more likely to produce graduates who are ready for the challenges of
the future.
To make the open credit system even more effective, universities should
provide students with more guidance and support. This could include offering
academic advising sessions, developing course maps, and providing students with
access to resources such as career counseling and internship opportunities.