For the future of education, blended learning is the way forward - which combines the best of both world, says Director

In an exclusive conversation with Shiksha.com, Director of Indian Institute of Art and Design, Dr Jitin Chadha talks at length about the smooth yet effective learning initiatives taken by the institute during the global pandemic crisis. Not just regular classes but the admission process, examination and evaluations went online through digital platforms such as Microsoft Teams, Canvas and LinkedIn Learning. He considers blended learning as the best approach moving forward as it combines the best of both the worlds. Dr Chadha holds a Master's degree in Economics and Finance from Warwick University and a PhD degree in Finance from Delhi University. He believes in quality interdisciplinary programs that will nurture talent and intellectual curiosity, foster critical thinking along with giving the students a core skill set. 

Read the complete interview below:

Q: How has recent scenario of lockdown and global pandemic impacted your education system?

A: The Covid-19 pandemic has gripped the world and altered the very meaning and perception of education globally. As attempts are being made to embrace this new ‘normal’, there is an increasing realisation of the importance of technology as a bridging force not only between students and teachers but between the safety of our homes and the opportunities of the outside world.

For the future of education, blended learning is the way forward - which combines the best of both worlds. Without compromising on the quality of education, there is a need to rethink how to create a conducive environment to impart knowledge and ensure that learning does not stop despite the current situation.

Q: What are some of the interesting initiatives your institute has taken to make it easy forthe students and also contribute to the eradication of this pandemic?

A: The institute has gone to great lengths to ensure that the online education process is seamless and that the students and faculty have access to all the necessary platforms in order to carry out the teaching and learning. As a result of this, the institute has invested in platforms such as Microsoft Teams, Canvas and LinkedIn Learning.

• All internal coordination and classes are held online on Microsoft Teams. This not only ensures social distancing but also sets in place a linear communication system. Students and teachers can discuss and plan out their schedules, classes, meetings and tutorials
• The faculty have been using Canvas to evaluate student work. Canvas is a learning management system that aids in accessing online learning material and encourages skill development
• The IIAD community has also been using LinkedIn Learning to help develop their skills and adapt to this new ‘digital age’
• Personal initiatives such as multi-camera sets ups, tripods and screen sharing have been taken by faculty members across the departments to ensure a holistic learning experience

Q: How is the institute planning to conduct exams, evaluate and declare result online?

A: Exam, interview, evaluation and declaration of results will all take place online. However, IIAD has also offered to allow students to come to campus if they prefer taking the entrance exam offline. The campus has been sanitised for this purpose and social-distancing regulations will be followed. The studio simulation round for the Undergraduate Design iDAT has been discontinued in light of the current situation. For the remaining courses such as MA Fashion Design & UG/ PG Fashion Business Management, an online personal interview will take place for candidates. Once these have been evaluated, students will be informed of the outcome and can confirm their place and submit their fees online.

Q: How are the students responding to the new initiatives?

A: Learning during the pandemic has definitely been a challenge for students and teachers alike. However, with all measures being taken to ensure that students are actively involved in online classes, discussions, etc. a sense of community has been established. The institute is also providing support through Mental Health services to the students to help them during these difficult times. Despite the physical distance, they are all closely connected.

The response of students to these new initiatives is encouraging. They are collaborating with each other and using the various digital resources to supplement their learning. They are also experimenting with diverse mediums and presenting their portfolios online, thereby, learning from one another.

Q: What impact will it have on students’ interpersonal and team-management skills?

A: With classes now taking place online, there is a growing need for students to manage their time and maintain a sense of discipline with the new freedom they have received. The extra time at their hands has also meant that they can utilise this to hone their skills and work on their projects and explore facets of design that interest them.

Better communication in order to effectively collaborate with one another has meant that students, apart from being independent thinkers, also have the opportunity to be team players, thereby, getting a holistic perspective on any aspect of their design education.

Online learning prods students to exercise their imaginative and creative faculties, encourages a sense of curiosity and provides them with a platform to explore new methods of learning to see what best suits their learning style and individual interests.

Q: What are the best practices that the college is adopting to ensure seamless online learning?

A: Design is essentially an experimental, practical and hands-on discipline. The Delnet Library Network, for instance, should provide students with the required online resources and materials to supplement their learning. Electronic learning tools and devices are crucial as we strive to keep up with these changing times. Applying the concept of “force multiplier” to technology will mean that students can continue to access these e-learning resources and benefit from the guidance of their mentors without the need for physical proximity. We need to rethink the idea of traditional classrooms. Live classes and interactive sessions are not only socially engaging but can also provide students with all the support they need in their educational pursuits. Softwares such as Adobe Creative Cloud and the likes will ensure that students can continue to learn by doing and, in the process, understand the practical facets of design education.

Q: How will today’s situation revolutionise online learning in India and abroad?

A: The pandemic, in spite of the global crisis it has engendered, has highlighted the importance of rethinking education and learning.

• Online learning can happen anytime and anywhere. Location and geographical distance is no longer a limitation.
• The individual roles of teachers and students are also expanding. There is a growing need for both of them to be efficient planners and problem-solvers. Students are encouraged to develop self-discipline, time management and become independent thinkers.
• Rapid advancement in technology means that information can be accessed digitally, thereby, saving costs on books and supplements.
• Lessons can be modified and customised to better cater to individual needs, requirements and abilities