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The recent viral sensation stemming from an IIT Kanpur engineering exam highlights the unexpected intersection of politics and academia. The question, designed to test students' understanding of radio frequency filters and circuit design, ingeniously incorporated elements from the ongoing political rivalry between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Arvind Kejriwal, the chief minister of Delhi. The problem presented a scenario where Kejriwal, after suffering a significant electoral defeat and facing budgetary constraints, desires to listen to Modi's 'Mann ki Baat' radio broadcast at a specific frequency (105.4 MHz). The crux of the question required students to design a filter using limited resources (a 50-ohm resistor, a variable inductor, and a variable capacitor) to isolate the desired broadcast from adjacent channels, thereby demonstrating their comprehension of fundamental electrical engineering principles.
The inclusion of real-world political figures and a contemporary event within an academic setting sparked considerable debate. Some lauded the innovative approach, arguing that it made the technical subject matter more engaging and relatable for students. The contextualization of the problem within a familiar political narrative ostensibly aided in comprehension and retention, turning a potentially dry, theoretical exercise into a thought-provoking challenge that integrated technical skills with current events. This approach mirrors pedagogical strategies advocating for problem-based learning, where students grapple with real-world applications of their knowledge to deepen understanding and promote critical thinking. The narrative element added a layer of intrigue, sparking conversations beyond the confines of the classroom and raising questions about the role of current events in pedagogical design.
However, others criticized the decision to incorporate political figures into an academic assessment. Concerns were raised about potential biases, the suitability of politicized content within an ostensibly apolitical setting, and the possibility of alienating students holding differing political viewpoints. Critics argued that the focus should remain solely on the assessment of technical proficiency, free from extraneous political contexts. The controversy serves to highlight the broader discussion surrounding the appropriate boundaries between education and politics, prompting reflection on how current events can be integrated into teaching effectively without compromising neutrality or academic integrity. Furthermore, the use of a specific political narrative risks creating a less inclusive learning environment for students who may not be familiar with or engaged in that particular political context.
The viral nature of the question underscores the power of integrating real-world scenarios into educational materials. The question successfully tapped into contemporary public discourse, generating considerable media attention and highlighting the innovative potential of incorporating relevant contexts within examinations. The success of the question in capturing public imagination raises questions about the effectiveness of similar teaching methodologies and the potential for future pedagogical innovation. The incident also prompts a wider conversation concerning the appropriate role of politics in education, the balance between engaging learning materials and maintaining academic objectivity, and the ethics of using political figures in academic settings without potentially causing division or alienation.
Source: ‘Arvind Kejriwal wants to listen to Mann ki Baat’: IIT Kanpur’s exam question goes viral