Use of the examination paper as a motivating factor to gain English proficiency of the library and information science graduates

Abstract

Although a large number of students seek registration in the Department of Library and Information Science annually to pursue studies there, it has to restrict the intake owing to logistic and academic constraints. Former being the concern of the Administration, the Department's task is tackling the latter. A major obstacle it faces in this regard is finding students with English Language competence. Despite the attractive English Language grades the students have obtained at O/L exam, their English proficiency falls far short of the standard the Department aspires to gain as its proposed mission: "producing well trained, skilled, and competent resource persons". This proficiency level presupposes, among other things, the need of an advanced communicative ability, in both vernaculars and English. Yet, given the low English proficiency the students display at entry level, achieving the Departments objective in respect of English, without a concerted effort on the part of the students, is a far cry. Hence, a substantial exposure to English is imperative to reach the language level the Department anticipates. This necessitates regular attendance at English classes. Yet, reluctance on the part of students to attend classes is a phenomenon common to English as well. However, even with reluctance they need to be present in class as English language question paper tests a vast language area. Moreover, its format is changed frequently to discourage guess work. Hence, extensive scrutiny of past question papers is necessary to prepare for the examination. Thus, wash back effect of the question paper can be considered as a factor that motivates class participation, which helps achieve Department’s objective. Aim of this paper is discussing the communicative functions the paper addresses and their impact on Department’s mission.