Students get hands-on experience using CNC machines and 3D printers available on campus, says CSA faculty

In a conversation with Shiksha, Architect Saranya V, Assistant Professor at Crescent School of Architecture (B.S.Abdur Rahman University) shares her views on how the institute ensures to turn its students into world-class architects. She also talks about the best-in-class practices and hands-on experience on machines that make students market-ready. Saranya V is a reputed architect designer with experience in the industry as well as academics. She completed M.Arch in 2018 from School of Architecture & Planning, Anna University, Chennai.

Read the excerpts of the interview below:

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

A: The teaching methodology adopted by the School is unique and involves more practical exposure for students. We focus on:

• Studios-based subjects than theory subjects. This makes it easy for students to understand concepts. Practising concepts more will help them learn better
• Our curriculum is designed in a way that a student gets to learn all related subjects in one semester. With the help of this, they can also relate with other subjects of the same semester

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

A: The return on investment (ROI) of any course or programme can be evaluated in terms of the placement offers. And, this is only possible if we prepare our students at par with the industry standards. To make this happen:

• We offer value-added courses such as skill development and design-based development software, which is the key need for the competitive industry
• Since we are concentrating more on practical and hands-on exercises that help our students to have a better understanding of facts
• We do conduct Join studio programmes with both (National and International) colleges to make our students understand the design methodology adopted by other colleges

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

A: Students aspiring for admission in Architecture courses at Crescent School of Architecture must have the right attitude. It means they should be disciplined, smart, competitive and must have the zeal to learn.

Alongside, to perform well they must be open to participate in various college-level events and stay active during the classes.

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

A: Our Board of Study meeting is conducted regularly to check the update of the curriculum. The board also seeks suggestion from all faculty members and alumni who are working with reputed companies today to understand the current developments in the field. Basis academic and industry level suggestions, the curriculum is designed

The idea is to keep students updated with the latest trends in the industry.

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

A: Yes, our college is receptive to innovation, technology, science & entrepreneurship. We have the most updated CNC machines and 3D printers at our campus which are available for students to use. This helps them get hands-on practice and room for innovation.