We emphasise on innovation and liberal learning that celebrates diversity, says CSA Professor Sangeetha

In a conversation with Shiksha.com, Professor Sangeetha of Crescent School of Architecture (B.S.Abdur Rahman University) talks in detail about their teaching methodology. The school emphasises more on facilitating practical exposure to the students in the form of regular seminars, workshops, guest lectures and industrial visits. This boosts confidence in them and enhances their creativity.

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: Salient features of the teaching methodology adopted by the Crescent School of Architecture are:

• We invite practising architects to share their experiences and challenges faced. They guide students to make them understand the real-life situation of architectural practice.
• We believe in Applied Learning; Hands-on experience
• Learning does not stop at the curriculum defined. We want our students to stand out from the crowd of Architectures. Hence, we offer value-added courses such as 3D software classes, workshops, seminars, site visits, etc to help students gain additional knowledge and add value to their profile
• Learning is not confined to four walls. So, we organise frequent International and local architectural tours to give students practical exposure

At Crescent School of Architecture, we aim to emphasise on innovation and liberal learning that celebrates diversity and complexity that instills empowerment on social responsibility.

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

A: Our students are involved in designing and planning of building projects which are live or hypothetical projects, where the scale of project depends on their semester which will sensitise them about the value of the project.  They are expected to plan intelligently considering the environmental context also.

As a part of our teaching methodology, we make extensive use of literature and live case studies to help students understand all aspects of projects assigned to them.

And, guest lectures, workshops and seminars are frequently organised to facilitate learnings from the leaders of the industry.

Students also apply the knowledge they gain from theory subjects.

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

A: More than anything, the zeal and passion towards architecture subject is important. Having a basic knowledge of drawing and sketching skills is an additional benefit. They should be creative, must be able to think out of the box and should be determined about their goals. A student possessing these skills and abilities can easily make way to Crescent School of Architecture

To do well in this course, a student must learn and practise good drawing skills, communication skill, designing and creative skill.

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

A: It is very important for the curriculum to be updated. This helps students to stay abreast with the latest trends and practices of the industry. The curriculum is revised regularly. It is framed in such a way that it touches upon all subjects and aspects required for a student to learn and meet the industrial requirement.

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

A: Yes, we are receptive to innovation, technology, science and entrepreneurship:

• Encouraging students to pursue value-added courses such as 3D software classes, seminars, site visits, industrial visits, International and local architectural tour helps the students to gain more practical knowledge. This enhances their creativity and makes them more innovative
• We conduct frequent architectural events, workshops, seminars and guest lectures so students become part of the corporate network. They learn and practice entrepreneurship skills.