We Bridge the Gap Between Industry and Academia for an Exceptional Learning Journey, says Dr Parul Tandan

In an exclusive interview with Shiksha.com, Dr. Parul Tandan talks about the DSBS teaching methodology that sets apart the institution in the education field. Through initiatives like the C-Talk Series, X-pert Talk Series, and Global Talk Series, industry experts share their insights.

Dr. Parul Tandan is a dedicated educator, a passionate researcher, and a respected member of the academic community. She is working as Head of Corporate Affairs at Dayananda Sagar Business School Bangalore.

Q1. What are the salient features of the teaching methodology adopted by your college? How does this differ from others?

Industry Integration: Industry professionals give guest lectures like C-Talk Series, X-pert Talk Series and Global Talk Series, setting up industry outings like industry visits, and integrating practical industry projects into the curriculum give students a better understanding of the problems and trends facing the market today.

Dynamic learning environments are created by promoting active participation from students through interactive sessions, discussions, and group activities, are planned throughout the 2 year curriculum of PGDM.

Case-Based Learning: By using real-world case studies and simulations, students apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, which improves their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Practical exposure of the international market study with Global Immersion Program (GIP) and rural exposure through Rural Immersion Program (RIP) is been given significance.

Dayananda Sagar Business School employs a variety of efficient teaching strategies that are customized to their particular teaching approach. These strategies include the use of cutting-edge teaching techniques, summer internships and real-world experience, as well as a continuous learning environment led by professors of practice and global faculty, which distinguishes DSBS from the rest of the B-school.

Q2. How are you preparing your students to be Industry ready?

Dual – Specialization: Students can specialize in areas of their interest with the help of DSBS's array of industry-specific specializations and optional courses. These program are created in collaboration with industry professionals to guarantee their applicability and demand in the labour market.

Continuous Industry Mentoring: 20% of the course syllabus is delivered by Alumni/XPERT/ CEO from the Industry partners to bridge the gap between academics and practice.

Career and Placement Support: Offer specialized career and placement support services, such as industry networking events, on-campus recruiting campaigns, and assistance in finding a job.

Q3. What are the qualities you are looking for in student applicants? What qualities do they need to do well in your course?

Academic Excellence: A solid academic record along with good grades.

Curiosity and Eagerness to Learn: A sincere interest in the topic at hand combined with a drive to discover and investigate novel concepts.

Critical Thinking: Situation analysis, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills are highly prized.

Communication abilities: It's important to have both written and spoken communication abilities. The ability to communicate ideas clearly and efficiently is a prerequisite for becoming a Future Leader.

Q4. How do you ensure that your course curriculum is up to date and meets industry requirements?

To close the gap between academics and practice, the DSBS PGDM curriculum is developed by industry professionals. It is administered by experienced senior industry professionals on continuous basis. Alumni/XPERT from the industry teach 20% of the course syllabus making the program relevant and updated based on industry standards.

Q5. Is your college receptive to innovation, technology, science & entrepreneurship? How? Could you cite some examples of these?

DSBS offer programs, courses, and resources dedicated to entrepreneurship and innovation, some of the courses are Innovation and Design Thinking, Technology Management and Entrepreneurship Management, which are delivered by Industry Experts.

The focus of these courses is on start-up incubators, pitch contests, mentorship programs, and working with business partners. Additionally, DSBS promotes the exploration of creative solutions to pressing issues by both academics and students. By the program's conclusion, each student must have published two papers in a referenced journal.