Abrupt transition to English medium teaching-learning environment in colleges is what students from vernacular background loathe.
A General English textbook for undergraduate students titled ‘Spectrum of Skills in English’, authored by English professors of St. Joseph’s College promises to enable aspiring first-generation graduates, who constitute a majority of entrants, to adapt to the new situation.
Authored jointly by three professors: S. Joseph Arul Jayaraj, V. Francis and R. Jayakanth, the book, in two volumes encompassing sports, spirituality, philosophy and literature is poised for prescription as General English text for undergraduate students in the college in the coming years.
At a recent function, College Secretary Rev. Fr. S. John Bosco handed over the first copy of the book to Principal Rev. Fr. A. Albert Muthumalai, in the presence of the authors, department head S. Papu Benjamin Elango, and former head G. Ravindran. Release of the book in the college’s 169 year of academic excellence is a matter of pride, Fr. Muthumalai said. While prof. Elango saw a sound augury in young professors authoring books in the era of ‘publish or perish’, prof. Ravindran felt the book was different in that insights into soft skills have been provided wherever possible, and exuded confidence that it would hold the attention of learners.
Presenting his review of the book, Rev. Fr. Paul Pragash, director, Arrupe Library, said the book, encompassing prose, poetry and short stories, was long enough to cover essentials, and short enough to be attractive.
Choice of passages was entertaining in content and character.
The book will help teachers deal with high and low performers on an even keel, and expose students sufficiently to LSRW (Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing) skills, prof. Jayakanth assured.
