Teaching methodology at ABBS-SM infuses some of the time-tested, best and exciting methods, says Prof Dr Sharma

In a conversation with Shiksha.com, HOD ABBS, Dr Sharma talks at length about the various salient features of the teaching methodology that help the institute differentiate from other management schools across the country. These factors include practice-based teaching-learning experience, Creative assignments, case studies, live projects and theatre among others to help students become industry ready.

Dr Sharma has over 16 years of extensive academic and industry 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: Teaching methodology at ABBS-SM infuses some of the time-tested, best and exciting methods with a focus on learning for life. Traditional methods like lecturing, ppt, textbook find its place in a limited space. Major learning happens through creative methods and active mode by involving students in the entire process. Some creative thought infused are

• Focus is on the practice-based teaching-learning experience of the student
• Session plans are designed with Lecture, Practical and Tutorial inputs in each course
• Creative assignments like Interviews, Business Models, Digital exercises, development of digital presence, overnight assignments are part of the course dissemination
• Students learn concepts through participation in various club activities
• Case study is the most preferred method in classroom discussion
• Live projects, competitions, Industry visit, term papers, simulations are various opportunities for effective learning along with regular quizzes and class test procedure
• Theatre in management is a successful experiment carried out by ABBS-SM for the learning class
• Identification of the learning speed and interest area is set in the beginning of the course and subsequent attention is fixed on students

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

A: We believe in Go-to-Market concepts for education. The market requires the latest Knowledge, Skill and Attitude in the desirable workforce. Through our robust and live industry connection, we keep assessing our strengths and explore opportunities to grow. The inclusion of the latest concepts of management, analytics, strategy and decision making in the curriculum keeps them updated. We include best of knowledge resources through memberships and tie up and make it accessible to the students. Industry visits and expert guest lectures are a common features. A project such as Capstone, Research and Industry Internship Programme makes them fit for direct absorption in the industry. Short courses, workshops are arranged in the online and offline environment throughout the programme. Tailormade courses are provided to the students for their interest in the current areas. The main focus in the entire development is ethical practices which is infused through CSR activities, Campus to Community Programme, etc. Students are given industry opportunities based on their specialisation.

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

A: A student is someone who has an urge for learning. This is the criteria that set an ABBS-SM student apart from the crowd. You should be able to make your presence felt by your efforts, language and body. You should be able to read and express your mind.

For excelling in PGDM programme, dedicate your time, be regular and decide your goal with the help of your course instructor. Get ready to be mentored, design a long-term programme and carve your path. Don’t miss small details in learning and have faith in yourself.

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

A: Curriculum design has multiple levels of input. The contribution comes from Academic Circle where discussion happens about the respective course. The next level of review and discussion happens at IQAC (Internal Quality Assurance Cell). Further discussion happens at the Board of Study level which has a representation of Industry, Academia and other stakeholders. The suggestions are reviewed and incorporated into the curriculum.

Other sources for review are expert lectures, webinars, conferences, Industry connect, latest industry reports, accreditations, etc. that help to keep the curriculum most updated always.

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

A: This is interesting to answer here. ABBS-SM started analytics specialisation from 2019 to keep technology on its side. There are courses like Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management with Incubation cell. This helps to support new ideas of business among ABBS-SM students.
ABBS-SM experimented with theater in management in 2020-2021 and it was a huge hit. This is one of its kind innovations done in higher education. Various clubs support these activities.