Industry readiness isn’t a one time process or achievement, rather it’s a continuous process, says Associate Professor

As a new-age university, Brainware University is experimenting with a variety of new techniques to make learning more dynamic, participatory, and long-lasting for students. With today's students being more tech-savvy, it's more vital than ever to move away from the traditional chalk-and-duster teaching technique and move towards more practical applications. Brainware University has grasped the notion and is moving forward. Dr Angshuman Majumdar, Associate Professor in the Electronics and Communication Engineering department of Brainware University, speaks with Shiksha.com about the university's multiple life-changing initiatives.

Dr Majumdar is a PhD degree holder from Jadavpur University. He has many publications in international journals of repute in the field of fibre and integrated optics.

Read the complete interview below.

Q: What is the difference between the teaching methodology in your institute and others?

A: The methods given below differentiate our university from other institutes

1. In addition to the usual teacher-centric methods, we have a learner-centric one that is interactive and participative in nature
2. Lessons are uploaded on the Students’ forum with a recording of class lectures for ready understanding
3. Frequent assessment of students through interactive methods and class tests
4. Necessary mentoring of students, with special attention to specific requirements
5. Remedial classes for slow learners and special classes for fast learners
6. Motivating students for the development of innovative thinking  by solving problems; writing articles and publishing them in journals of repute
7. Frequent parent-teacher meetings for betterment of student profiles
8. Developing an ideal learning environment for every student.

Q: How are you preparing your students to be industry-ready?

A: Industry readiness isn’t a one time process or achievement, rather it’s a continuous process. With the corporate world so dynamic, the practices and technology keep changing every now and then. And, hence we at Brainware University keep experimenting with new ways to help students stay abreast with the latest technology and trend in the market. For this to happen, we:

1. Provide technical knowledge and skill as per the requirement of industrial houses
2. Develop soft skills and contemporary techniques of problem-solving among students
3. Arrange frequent webinars/workshops with renowned industry persons as speakers
4. Organise industry visits for students with a focus on student internship
5. Motivate students to participate in competitions related to projects.

Q: What qualities do your students have which other college students lack?

A: We nurture ethical and social values among the students by involving them in various kinds of social activities in the neighbouring villages periodically. This practice, along with those given above, makes our students much superior to students belonging to other institutions.

Q: Do you think the curriculum of the courses taught in your institute fits in with the requirement of the industry?

A: Basic things are already included in the curriculum. Besides, hands-on experience, relating to industry-specific requirements, are inculcated during the project/ training period.

Also, with our alumni and corporate network, we try and revisit our curriculum very frequently to keep it updated.

Q: Is your college receptive to innovation, technology, science and entrepreneurship?

A: Yes. Research papers are published, patents granted and webinars/ workshops hosted. Brainware University’s Innovation Council and Incubation Centre, among others, bear testimony to this.