When most institutes claim to provide the best educational facilities, why do students still fail to demonstrate the required aptitude? This is a question that is often a point of discussion and debate amongst experts and scholars; there is no single answer to this question, as we have to explore different aspects, including ineffective and outdated methodologies.
It is reasonable to point out that what worked thirty years ago might not work in today’s scenario in terms of educational techniques. For instance, passive learning, which relates to students receiving information and internalizing it, is no longer relevant. At the same time, theory-based instruction is not the only way to deliver instruction; instead, teachers and institutes opt for innovative teaching methods and develop an up-to-date curriculum.
‘’Stagnation is synonymous to cessation,’’ which basically means that failing to evolve with time will eventually lead to death; we can say the same for the education sector, which needs to adopt the global educational trends. One of the foremost changes has been the incorporation of technology to introduce innovative pedagogies in the classroom.
For example, teachers are able to implement unique instructional techniques like the flipped classroom, wherein students study or read at home and dedicate the class sessions to problem-solving. Consequently, new techniques help students to improve their skills and prepare them to face challenges in the real world. At the same time, it helps to enhance student outcomes.
Ajeenkya DY Patil University( ADYPU) and innovation go hand in hand, so much so that the institute is known as The Innovation University. However, that is hardly surprising, given the fact that the institute has spent years mastering the craft of delivering quality education. Moreover, it has developed a competency-based curriculum that can be compared with international frameworks.
The institute provides opportunities for students to gain real-time experience through its tech workshops, artistic and cultural events, robot design, etc. In fact, it strives to empower idea-generators, strategic thinkers, and people with a creative mindset and passion for problem-solving, making it the best technical university in Pune.
Therefore, it is only fitting to check out the strategies employed within their education structure, which are as follows:
Outcome-based Learning Program
Whether it is the School of Design or the School of Engineering, course delivery follows a carefully followed procedure wherein instructors implement an outcome-based learning approach. As a result, students have an idea from the get-go of what they are going to learn and the modules that will be covered over the months. This will help them be on track and self-evaluate their progress; so, by the end of the term, students will gain pre-determined knowledge and skills.
Industry Driven Curriculum
ADYPU has a one-of-a-kind curriculum structure wherein students can customize their coursework to meet individual learning goals. Furthermore, it is a standardized curriculum that benchmarks against internationally developed frameworks such as the Accreditation Board of Engineering & Technology (ABET, US).
Simultaneously, a flexible curriculum ensures that students can choose courses from any department or school of the University. Therefore, besides pursuing discipline-specific courses, they can explore other areas of study, boosting their personality development.
Experiential Learning
The instructional techniques at ADYPU are distinguished because it facilitates a unique learning system through a hands-on approach. Traditional classroom learning sessions integrate various activities, enabling students to engage in academic, social and cultural pursuits. Apart from curricular activities, extracurricular activities like drama, competitive sports, etc. enhance the student learning experience.
Entrepreneurship
The socioeconomic status quo is subject to instability, and students need to be prepared and cautious to face future challenges. Therefore, the institute has developed the Entrepreneurship Innovation Centre (EIC), an incubator that undertakes interdisciplinary research and provides incubation facilities to aspiring entrepreneurs and startups. Furthermore, the department encourages an entrepreneurial mindset through workshops, mentorships, and events.
Encourages Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
Is getting a degree sufficient in today’s scenario? Most students are aware that a degree would mean nothing more than a piece of paper unless one has the talent or skill. This is a ‘’ universal fact’’ that the faculty and teaching methodologies at ADYPU recognize. Hence, the programs and courses are embedded with strategic plans of action to inculcate 21st-century skills.
For instance, the coursework and various activities encourage teamwork, communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, information literacy, social responsibility, and others.
Creativity and Innovation
Creativity and innovation are two different things, and the institute provides an appropriate platform to encourage both among learners. The multidisciplinary courses and programs instructed through modem techniques and elaborate research and development activities empower creative ideas. In effect, the faculty and organizational structure bring the creative ideas to fruition through innovation in education.
Enhances Employability and Career Opportunities
The institute aims to contribute to an innovation-driven society in the context of Indian socio-economic prosperity. Hence, the efforts of the stakeholders are to graduate educated individuals empowered with relevant skills and capable of solving real-world problems. In fact, the placement and corporate relations at ADYPU ensure appropriate career opportunities after the completion of the course.
There is no assured guarantee that a student will get their preferred job after graduating from a college and university. The biggest reason being the job market is immensely competitive, with employers looking to hire only those who meet the industry standards.
That is why the contribution of ADYPU in the education sector is noteworthy as it strives to provide holistic development. As a result, upon graduation, students are well-equipped with skills to face challenges and stand out from the crowd, owing to their world-class education credibility.