Language Problems


The medium of instruction in IITK is English. The thesis work and assignment submissions are to be done in English, also all text and reference material is available in English. IITK has students from different cultural and regional backgrounds. Therefore, wide usage of English may be a matter of concern to many.

Many students who have not had a good background in English find it difficult to cope up with academics. This troubles them and they find themselves standing nowhere. If you are also facing a similar problem, let us tell you that you need not worry because there is a way out to this problem. You just need to put in a bit of effort.

As you have made it to this institute, you have enough brain to do well in academics. With some endeavor on your part, you can improve your English skills.

1. The institute runs English conversation classes to help students be comfortable with English as a language. You can join these classes where you'll be having group discussions and other activities to increase your familiarity with English.

2. Read English books and newspapers, mark the words you don't understand and look for their meaning in the dictionary. This will improve your English vocabulary. You'll get English newspapers and magazines in your hostel reading room. Books can be issued from the SAC book club and also the library. You may understand nothing when you begin reading these books but don't feel sad, just go on and you'll find yourself improving day by day.

3. Talk to your friends in English. Don't hesitate if you speak wrong English. You will improve only when you give it a start.

4. Don't run away from academics just because you don't understand English. Try to understand the terms, ask your friends to help you grasp the study material. Feel free to discuss your doubts with the tutors and instructors. They would be happy to clear your doubts.

5. At the Under Graduate level, an English course is offered in the first semester. This course has helped a number of students overcome the language problem. You must realise that English would not just help you through IITK, it would help you throughout your life.

Give sometime and you will definitely find yourself improving. However, if you still feel that you are uncomfortable because of your non English backgound, do not hesitate in contacting any of the Counselling Team members.