The regular interactions with corporate experts and alums give students a glimpse about global business, says Dr Sankalp

In a conversation with Shiksha.com, Associate Professor of International Business subject at ITM Business School, Navi Mumbai Dr Sankalp Srivastava talks at length about the pedagogical innovations at the institute. He elaborates on the experiential learning and flip classroom methodology that encompasses the use of various techniques such as Roleplays, trust walks, book reviews, Socrates Dialogue, etc. to ensure a quality learning experience to students.

Dr Srivastava holds a Master in Corporate Management degree from the University of Lucknow and a doctorate in Philosophy degree from the Central University of Allahabad, Prayagraj. He has over 15 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: The teaching methodology adopted by the Department of International Business is based on experiential learning and flip classroom. We have a pedagogical innovation called Leadership Lab, that takes care of the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being of the students. Role plays, trust walks, book reviews, Socrates Dialogue are also used in the teaching-learning process. This leads to the development of skills such as analytical problem solving, the ability to work collaboratively, leadership and communication skills and strategic thinking.

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

A: With regular interactions with corporate experts and alums by way of guest sessions including an address from people from foreign countries giving them a glimpse about global business. Their study term in Europe also gives them exposure to global business practices. They also get the opportunity to do pro bono industry projects. We have a course on managerial communication which trains the students with good communication skill exercises and that helps the student in personality development. We also stress encouraging ‘Adaptability Quotient' in students through sessions in career management, managing people at work, etc. under the framework of an integrated curriculum.

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

A: We look for inquisitiveness, emotional intelligence, and willingness to do learn and experience, in the applicants. They should be hardworking, ready to work in challenging environments, creative, globally aware, and self-aware.

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

A: Board of Studies (BoS) meeting twice a year with senior persons from Industry and academia in attendance. The curriculum is revised every year based on the recommendation of BoS to ensure the contemporariness and relevance of the curriculum in the dynamic business environment.

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

A: We have a fully functional Entrepreneurship Cell at the Institute level that helps students in developing new ideas. Further, a course in Entrepreneurship is compulsorily taught to all students.