No abstract

During the brief coronavirus-induced hiatus in March and April 2020, educational institutions in Bangladesh including public universities began preparations for online classes. By the end of June, almost all private universities and a few public universities had started online classes with limited or no preparation which was met with appreciation as well as censure from different stakeholders. Against this backdrop, this study was conducted with a view to examining the online teaching learning scenario at Bangladeshi public universities from the perspective of one important stakeholder, the students, with a specific focus on the challenges they faced in this new mode of instruction. Suggestions were also sought from them regarding how the barriers to online instruction could be overcome. Data were collected from 26 students of English Departments of 11 public universities through semi-structured interviews. The major challenges reported in the data include issues of access and equity, inadequate logistic support and poor infrastructure. Concerns related to curriculum, pedagogy, assessment and psychological issues were also highlighted. In addition, lack of prior experience and training were identified as serious obstacles. Major suggestions from the participants include ensuring access and equity, providing training opportunities and digital devices to students and engaging in curriculum and assessment reforms.

No abstract

No abstract

As the Department of English, University of Dhaka celebrates its centenary in the year 2021, it is vital to look back and take stock of its achievements as well as the challenges it has faced over the years on the way to becoming a premier department for English studies and for English language education in the region. In this paper, we explore the academic history of the department using archival resources and interviews with senior academics who have not only witnessed but also played key roles in the evolution of the department. Based on the available data, we highlight the original motivations of the founders for establishing the department, the key changes in the curriculum and the forces that drove those changes, the academic and administrative structures, the major achievements of its teachers as well as its alumni, and the challenges facing the department today. Overall, the paper provides a few insights which may be useful for those involved in English studies in Bangladesh and other similar historical and social contexts. Spectrum, Volume 16, June 2021: 3-23