Harnessing Academic Excellence: Dr. Shampa Nandi's Profound Pedagogical Leadership at ISME

In an exclusive interview with Shiksha.com, Dr Shampa Nandi says The International School of Management Excellence (ISME) distinguishes itself through a unique teaching methodology tailored to prepare students for the dynamic demands of the contemporary workforce. Adopting an interactive learning process, ISME integrates case studies, role-playing, and concept sessions within its pedagogical framework, fostering an engaging academic environment.

Dr. Shampa Nandi, a distinguished academician with a profound educational background and extensive experience spanning over a decade, stands at the forefront of academia as a Professor and Principal (PG) at the International School of Management Excellence (ISME). With a rich tapestry of qualifications including an MSc in Mathematics from Jadavpur University, an MBA and Ph.D. from the esteemed Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Dhanbad, and a PGDSBA from the University of Texas at Austin, supplemented by her UGC-NET in Management. 

Q1. What are the salient features of the teaching methodology adopted by your college? How does this differ from others?

The International School of Management Excellence (ISME) adopts a unique teaching methodology that sets it apart from other institutions. Here are some of the salient features: Interactive Learning Process: ISME uses an interactive learning process that includes case studies, role-playing, and concept and technique sessions. Six-Term Delivery Methodology: Each term lasts ten weeks and covers six courses, ensuring a high level of academic input and fast-paced learning.

Industry-Focused Curriculum: The curriculum is constantly updated to align with corporate requirements and includes courses on digital, analytics, communication, logistics, and other job-oriented subjects. Global Partnerships: ISME has partnerships for the “Business Strategy Game” with faculty from the University of Alabama, USA. There’s also an opportunity for ISME students to be part of the London School of Economics and Political Science Summer School Corporate Ambience: ISME combines a corporate ambiance with an academic environment. In contrast, other institutions may use different teaching methodologies. Some common methods include: Lecture Mode: This is the most common method in various educational institutions. It involves a teacher delivering knowledge to students through lectures and direct instruction.Problem Solving: This method encourages students to apply their knowledge to solve real-world problems Role Playing: This method allows students to act out roles related to the course content to enhance their understanding. Group Work: This method encourages collaboration among students to complete tasks or projects Flipped Classroom: This method reverses the traditional learning environment by delivering instructional content outside of the classroom Self-Paced Learning: This method allows students to learn at their own pace. Each institution chooses its teaching methodology based on its educational philosophy, resources, and the needs of its students. Therefore, the effectiveness of a teaching methodology can vary depending on these factors

Q2. How are you preparing your students to be Industry-ready?

Interactive Learning Process: ISME uses an interactive learning process that includes case studies, role-playing, and concept and technique sessions. Industry-Focused Curriculum: The curriculum is constantly updated to align with corporate requirements and includes courses on digital, analytics, communication, logistics, and other job-oriented subjects. Global Partnerships: ISME has partnerships for the “Business Strategy Game” with faculty from the University of Alabama, USA. There’s also an opportunity for ISME students to be part of the London School of Economics and Political Science Summer School. Specialization-wise Industry Readiness Program: This includes Advance Excel/Psychological Wellbeing/Product Pitch/Art of Networking; Campus to Corporate Soft Skills Program; Leadership Training Program; Negotiation Skills; Technical Industry Training- Cloud Computing/ Power BI/ HR Analytics/ Tech for MarkCom/ Python; MOOC Course Certification; Aptitude. . Career Opportunity Cell (COC): The COC manages alumni, corporate partnerships and assists students with placements, career advice, and internships. These features help ensure that ISME students are well-prepared for the demands of the industry.

Q3. How do you ensure that your course curriculum is up to date and meets industry requirements?

The International School of Management Excellence (ISME) ensures that its course curriculum is up-to-date and meets industry requirements through the following ways:

Updated and Industry-Focused Curriculum: The ISME curriculum is created with the requirements and trends of the industry in mind. Senior corporate executives and industry specialists contribute to its frequent updates.

Exposure to Industry Requirements: Six Sigma Green Belt and Global Business Strategy Game certification are two examples of disciplines that are taught to ISME students that have particular industry requirements.

Value-Added Courses: In addition to the standard curriculum, ISME provides courses with additional value, such as entrepreneurship, business law and ethics, and innovation management.

Faculty with worldwide Professional Experience: The ISME faculty members are either alumni of prestigious schools in India and other countries or have worldwide professional experience
By taking these steps, we can make sure that ISME students have the most up-to-date information and abilities that employers are looking for.

Q4. What are the qualities you are looking for in student applicants? What qualities do they need to do well in your course

1. Here are some key attributes we look for in applicants:
2. Academic Excellence: This is often measured through grades, standardized test scores, and the rigor of the courses taken in high school.
3. Extracurricular Involvement: Participation in activities outside the classroom like sports, clubs, volunteer work, or part-time jobs or even prior work experience can demonstrate a student’s interests and leadership skills.
4. Personal Qualities: Attributes like resilience, curiosity, creativity, and the ability to work well with others are highly valued.
5. Motivation and Ambition: We often look for students who are driven to learn and make the most of their college experience.

1. Key attributes that a student should have to get top grades in your institution

Strong Work Ethic: Top students are often those who are willing to put in the time and effort truly   understand the material.

Good Time Management: Balancing study time with other responsibilities requires planning and organization.

Active Participation: Engaging in class discussions and asking questions can enhance understanding.

Critical Thinking: The ability to analyze and evaluate information is key in many academic settings.

Perseverance: Persistence in the face of challenges and a willingness to seek help when needed can make a big difference.

Curiosity and Love of Learning: Students who are intrinsically motivated often do better.

Remember, grades are just one aspect of education. It’s equally important to develop a broad range of skills and pursue your passions.

Q5. Is your college receptive to innovation, technology, science & entrepreneurship? How? Could you cite some examples of these?

Innovation, technology, science, and entrepreneurship are all welcome at the International School of Management Excellence (ISME).

Interactive Curriculum: The curriculum is continually updated to align with corporate requirements and includes courses on digital, analytics, communication, logistics, and other job-oriented subjects. Global Partnerships: ISME has partnerships for the "Business Strategy Game" with faculty from the University of Alabama, USA. Interactive Learning Process: ISME uses an interactive learning process that includes case studies, role-playing, and concept and technique sessions.. Additionally, ISME students have the chance to participate in the London School of Economics and Political Science Summer School and . Months Exchange Program to THWS, Germany.

The program for industry readiness, which is specialized, covers the following areas: Advanced Excel, Psychology, Product Pitch, Art of Networking; Campus to Corporate Soft Skills Program; Leadership Training; Negotiation Skills; Technical Industry Training-Cloud Computing/Power BI/ HR Analytics/ Tech for Mar Com/Python; MOOC Course Certification; Aptitude. Career Opportunity Cell (COC): The COC helps students find internships, jobs, and career guidance in addition to overseeing alumni and corporate partnerships..
Here are a few instances of entrepreneurship and innovation at ISME:
Innovation without Disruption: Dispelling the long-held misconception that innovation has to be disruptive, ISME has written papers on the subject of innovation without disruption. Examples of Entrepreneurship: ISME promotes technological entrepreneurship among its students. They offer motivational instances of tech industry titans like Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Bill Gates These characteristics contribute to ensuring that ISME students are ready to take on leadership roles in their respective professions and are well-prepared for the needs of the industry.