Understanding VTU's Evaluation Criteria: Internals and Externals

Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU) has a comprehensive system for evaluating students, which includes a blend of internal assessments and external examinations. This system is designed to provide a well-rounded evaluation of academic progress and understanding. In this article, we will explore the details of VTU's evaluation criteria, focusing on the internal assessments and how they are structured.

Internal Assessments in VTU

Internal assessments are an integral part of the VTU evaluation system. They are designed to provide ongoing feedback and encourage regular practice. Here’s a breakdown of the typical components of internal assessments:

Internal Tests: These are conducted during the semester and can range from one to three. The frequency and number can vary depending on the course. Assignments: Projects, presentations, and other assignments are assigned to evaluate practical understanding and application of theoretical concepts. Attendance: Regular attendance is also considered, as it reflects the student's commitment and engagement.

While the exact weightage may vary, internally, internal assessments typically contribute around 20-30 percent of the total marks. The external examination, on the other hand, accounts for the remaining percentage.

Details of VTU’s Internal Assessment Scheme

Let’s delve into the specific details of VTU’s internal assessment scheme, particularly focusing on the evaluation methods used in different years and schemes.

2017 and 2018 Scheme

Under the 2017 and 2018 schemes, the internal assessment was structured as follows:

Average of All Three Internals: The average of the three internal tests was considered for 30 marks. Assignments, Seminars, and Quizzes: The remaining 10 marks were awarded for assignments, seminars, or quizzes, summing up to a total of 40 marks for Continuous Internal Evaluation (CIE). Sytem End Examination (SEE): The SEE was conducted for 100 marks but was reduced to 60 marks. Previous Schemes: In previous schemes, including the 2015 scheme, the average of the best two out of three internal tests was considered.

Specific Rules for Internal Assessment

The detailed rules for internal assessment are as follows:

Two Internals Mandatory: Two internals are compulsory. If the third internal is taken, the average of the best two will be considered. Example: If the marks for the first, second, and third internals are 20, 24, and 23 respectively, then the average of the second and third internals (24 and 23) will be the final marks. Compulsory Attendance for Two Internals: Two internals must be attended, and the average of these two will be considered as the final marks. If three internals are attended, the first and second highest marks will be averaged. Colleges Affiliated to VTU: Colleges affiliated to VTU may conduct three internals, but they will consider the best two. Average of Best Two Internals: VTU considers the average of the two best internal scores.

Importance of External and Internal Marks

While internal assessments are crucial, the external examination holds significant importance. Here are some key points:

Minimum Internal Mark Requirement: Some colleges have set a minimum average of 15 for internal marks. However, even if a student scores 30 in the external exam and 22 in the internals, the result can still be a fail if the total does not meet the passing criteria. External Marks Priority: Scoring more than 35 in the external exam is more critical than internal marks. For example, if a student scores 30 in the external and 22 in the internals, the total is 52, but the student fails because they scored less than 35 in the external exam. Overall Passing Criteria: Students must ensure that their external marks are more than 35 and the total score (external internals) crosses 50.

Conclusion

Understanding VTU's internal assessment system is crucial for students aiming to excel academically. This system, while intricate, is designed to foster continuous learning and improvement. By adhering to the guidelines and strategies outlined here, students can navigate the evaluation process effectively and achieve their academic goals.