Our training and grading methods contain more skill-based components than just written exams, says HOD

Applied learning teaching methodology is one that many institutions preach but only a handful of them are able to implement. The methodology involves imparting quality education to students through equal or more practical exposure. This includes hands-on training, live projects, industry visits, guest lectures, workshops and whatnot. Periyar Maniammai Institute of Science and Technology has been successfully implementing this. Dr P Aruna, HOD Software Engineering talks at length about the institute's journey to implement applied learning methodology and various other initiatives associated with it.

Dr Aruna has over 17 years of rich academic experience.

Read the complete interview below.

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

A: Practical based teaching methodology is adopted by our institution. Our teaching and evaluation methodology is not only based on the written examinations but also includes more skill-based components depending upon the course. Each and every course of a particular programme may consist of the evaluation components such as projects, demo, case study, etc. These kinds of evaluation components help our students to gain not only theoretical knowledge but also they are able to very well understand where and how to implement the learned content. 

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

A: Skills such as leadership, personality, communication, creative thinking, and positive attitude were acquired by the students. In our institution, these skills are inculcated along with practical knowledge to all students. Special Technical training are also given to the students from the first year onwards. Value Added Courses are offered in which the sessions are handled directly by the industry personnel. The skills such as leadership, decision making and crisis management are provided not only by training programmes but also by providing the opportunity to organise department/ institution programmes on their own with the guidance of the faculty members.

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

A: The qualities that we are looking for in student applicants are interest, curiosity and motivation towards the course which they are choosing. The students who want to join BSc Animation and Multimedia are expected to have creative skills and knowledge of basic drawing skills. The students who want to join BSc Computer Science, BSc Artificial Intelligence and MSc Computer Science are expected to have an interest in programming and logical thinking skills.

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

A: The Board of Studies of each and every programme meet once in three years and update the curriculum and syllabus. The curriculum is structured to meet out the industry needs. The members of the Board of Studies are academicians from the reputed educational institutions, industry personnel, alumni, students, parents and teachers who take part in and contribute their expertise in framing the syllabus. The current industry scenario is always updated by our alumni. Alumni remain our strength.

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

A: Innovations are always encouraged in our institution. Every year, we conduct intercollegiate project exhibits and symposiums. Students exhibit their ideas and innovations on these platforms. They get feedback regarding their project and get more ideas by discussing with other institution students.

Most of our BSc Animation and Multimedia students are entrepreneurs. They have their own studio for 2D & 3D modelling and animation.