The Perception of Bias Towards Post-Graduate Students in IITs

The academic landscape of Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) has garnered significant attention over the years, with discussions revolving around the treatment of post-graduate (PG) students compared to undergraduate (UG) students. While not a universal issue, instances of professors showing special favor towards PG students have been observed and reported, particularly at IIT Dhanbad. This article aims to delve into these issues, exploring the factors that contribute to this perceived bias and the impact it has on the educational environment.

Special Treatment and Privileges for PG Students

Among the specific instances of bias that have been reported, PG students have often been given preferential treatment in certain areas. Unlike UG students, who are evaluated based on IIT-JEE scores, PG students and doctoral research scholars might enjoy special attention or permissions from professors. These privileges include:

Special access to resources and facilities Exemption from certain academic rules and guidelines Participation in class and laboratory activities normally reserved for UG students Assisting in teaching and grading exams and assignments for UG students

Such privileges have led to an atmosphere where professors treat PG students as equal to junior faculty members, sometimes assigning them tasks that would normally be handled by junior faculty. This dynamic can create an imbalance in the academic environment, where PG students are seen to hold an advantageous position over their UG counterparts.

The Impact on Academic Integrity and College Dynamics

The special treatment afforded to PG students can have a significant impact on the overall academic environment. It can create a sense of disparity, with PG students feeling favored and UG students feeling sidelined. This can lead to conflicts and clashes, particularly when PG students perform poorly or act irresponsibly, setting off a chain of events that can affect the morale and effectiveness of the institution.

For instance, when issues arise between PG and UG students, the involvement of key committees and administrators can often highlight the bias towards PG students. The decision-making processes of these committees can reveal a preference for PG students, often at the expense of UG students. Such an environment can undermine the credibility of the institution and erode the trust between administrators and students.

Understanding the Causes of the Bias

It is important to understand the underlying reasons behind this observed bias. Several factors contribute to the preferential treatment afforded to PG students:

Research Focus: PG and doctoral students are primarily focused on research, which can provide a platform for them to showcase their expertise and contribute to the academic community. This focus on research can be equated with the role of junior faculty members, leading to the perception of equality. Status and Prestige: PG students, especially those who secure places through competitive exams like the UPSC or IAS, can bring a certain status and prestige to the institute, making their presence and contributions more valued. Resource Allocation: The allocation of resources and support to research-oriented projects can sometimes benefit PG students more than UG students, leading to a perception of favoritism.

Addressing the issue of bias in IITs requires a multi-faceted approach. Institutions must ensure that academic policies and practices are consistent and fair to all students, regardless of their academic level. Greater transparency in decision-making processes and the establishment of robust grievance mechanisms can help to address grievances and promote a more inclusive academic environment.

Conclusion

The issue of bias towards post-graduate students in IITs is a complex one, with roots in the unique dynamics of academic life. While there are valid reasons for the preferential treatment of PG students, it is crucial to ensure that such biases do not undermine the integrity of the educational process. Addressing these issues can lead to a more balanced and equitable academic environment, where all students are given the opportunity to excel based on merit and hard work.