Choice Architecture in Higher Education: Experiences and Trends in India – An Institution based Case Study
Abstract
This study examines elective course selection trends under India’s Choice-Based Credit System (CBCS) at an autonomous arts and science college from 2013 to 2023, aligning with SDG4’s goals of inclusive education and creative development. Using secondary data and stream-wise analysis across Languages, Humanities, Sciences, and Commerce, the study found that 51% of postgraduate students chose science electives (e.g., Life Sciences) despite being non-science majors, motivated by career prospects and curiosity. Undergraduate students favored interdisciplinary combinations, such as Humanities & Mathematical Sciences (accounting for 5% of choices). However, college norms, such as the “Science to Sciences” policy, partially constrained cross-disciplinary exploration—yet 44% of Language students still opted for courses outside their stream. The findings highlight CBCS’s effectiveness in fostering interdisciplinary learning while demonstrating the influence of institutional policies and emerging fields, such as biotechnology, ultimately supporting NEP 2020’s vision for adaptable, skill-focused education.
