We Use Student-Centric Learning Methods to Give a Holistic Approach Towards Learning, Says VMSIIHE Dr Edgar D’souza

In a conversation with Shiksha. Com, Dr Edgar D’souza, Assistant Professor of Food and Beverage Service of V. M. Salgaocar Institute of International Hospitality Education (VMSIIHE) talks about different teaching methodologies that are practised at VMSIIHE to give a holistic approach towards learning. 

Dr Edgar D’souza has more than 10 experience in the area of Hospitality and has worked in leading hotels such as The Leela Palace and The Golden Tulip Hotel, Goa, Paradise Island and many more. author of the textbook Food and Beverage – A Practical Guide (2012), Published by Rupa Publications India, New Delhi. Currently, he is working as an Assistant professor of Food and Beverage Services at V. M. Salgaocar Institute of International Hospitality Education.

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

While most colleges approach a teacher-centric pedagogy wherein the majority of class time is spent with the professor lecturing and the students listening and watching, we use a Student-centric learning method such as Active learning wherein students work together during class to solve issues, provide answers to questions, come up with their queries and discuss debate, or brainstorm.

Besides Active learning we also encourage Inductive teaching and learning, case-based training, problem-based learning, project-based learning and research-based learning. Executive interactions, Study tours, Field trips (local and International), International Exchange programs & internships give a holistic approach towards learning. Course Outlines for each course are prepared and authorized by the Principal.

The course objectives and learning outcomes are outlined in the course outline, together with the textbook requirements, due dates, and evaluation standards that are shared with the students through Google classroom before the commencement of the course. The students are expected to read the course material beforehand and come prepared for each session to facilitate healthy discussions.

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

A practical learning component is an essential part of a thorough hospitality education curriculum, and our Institute has been at the forefront of the movement to combine practical training and education. Additionally, internships at international hotels have been demonstrated to encourage student learning by improving comprehension and facilitating confirmation of knowledge learned in the classroom, preparing students to be work ready, and helping them achieve a greater range of competencies, including leadership, management, and problem-solving skills, which are somewhat more difficult to acquire via classroom teaching or simply practical training at the institute.

The institute includes elements of practical learning, with soft skills training, work-integrated learning/education, work-based learning, project-based learning, practical in core hospitality areas such as Front Office Operations, Food and Beverage Service, Food Production, Bakery and Accommodation Operations, internships, work placements, leadership points, and add-on courses, to name a few, being the most frequently used. Events such as Fine dining, Cultural Nights, Theme nights, Gala Dinners and Conferences are conducted at the Institute for a hands-on experience of Banquets and Event management.

Besides the Core Courses, the Institute also offers Perspective building electives such as Theatre appreciation, Music appreciation, Cultural studies and Film appreciation to name a few. The combination of key management subjects such as Research Methods, Strategic management, Financial Accounting, Marketing, Human Resource Management and Event Management ensures that our graduates are well-equipped for a successful career in the hospitality sector. Courses such as Interview facing skills and Group discussions are conducted for students with mock interviews by Hotel Executives to develop skills in the interviewing process.

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

The student applicants ought to have some fundamental social skills. Students must be committed and open to working in an industry that demands long hours and dedication. It is crucial to pay close attention to detail. In addition, leadership and teamwork are essential. Positive attitude, creativity and enthusiasm are an added advantage.

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

The course curriculum of our Institute is proposed by the Institutes Departmental Council and is then passed by the University Board of Studies (BoS) after discussion and approval of all the members of the BOS. It is then approved by the Academic Council.  Academicians, subject experts, and executives from the industry make up the Board of Studies, which ensures that the curriculum is current and meets industry requirements. Its responsibilities include organising the material of different courses, routinely monitoring and updating the content, providing new courses, etc.

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

The institute has a Research and Development Cell that has been established to inspire, guide and coordinate the initiatives of the staff and students towards major and minor research projects, innovation and start–ups. The research cell provides a holistic environment for potential researchers and students so as to translate knowledge and innovation into the creation of successful research products. It also aims to link research and innovation to the emerging needs of industry and society by collaborating with Universities, Research centres and Industries for research and Innovations. It also publishes a research journal, ‘Vidya’, organizes research-related sessions, and seminars and encourages faculty to pursue Ph.D.

In order to encourage a scientific mindset and research culture among students and faculty during the past four years, the institution has invited renowned researchers, academicians, and social activists to conduct lectures. Sessions on research techniques are scheduled. The college offers the tools needed for research, including books, journals, the internet, and equipment.

We have started an Incubation Centre & Startup cell where all new ideas, programs and innovations can be fostered. It will serve as a platform for young entrepreneurs to learn core elements of business planning, by providing information, technical and management assistance, mentoring, seminars and workshops.

The College is proud of its achievements in terms of extension activities in a variety of categories, including gender sensitization, environmental and social awareness programmes, literacy, health camps, plantation work, cleaning, and healthcare. NSS, Extension Cell, and Gender Champions initiate these services. Students are encouraged to engage in community and business-based projects. Through these programmes, our students have gained teamwork skills and a sense of social responsibility. The institute has also established contacts with regional organisations and NGOs to carry out such outreach and extension programmes.