The tenth annual convention of the Higher Education Forum (HEF) enlightened the need for skills and competencies for new generation teachers and innovations in teaching learning processes to improve the quality of higher education for students.
Internet, smart phones, gadgets, social media, digital content, online courses and virtual information are few tools to which students connect instantly, according to panelists. Also, higher education requires industry related information imparted to students so that they can succeed when they take up jobs.
If industry related requirements are not incorporated in higher education then students are not going to be industry ready, according to panelists. Dinesh Harsolekar, Director of IES Management College and Research Centre, said, “Once students complete higher education, they opt for jobs directly. And if students have no clue about the requirements of the industry then they might have a tough time.
It is better to incorporate industry requirements as part of the syllabus so students have an overall idea.” Teachers, universities and educational institutes should stay connected with the industry and invite guest lecturers too. Abhilash Misra, CEO of NSE Academy, said, “Industry experts can conduct lectures and workshops for students where students can get a chance to directly interact with them.
Also teachers should be in constant touch with the industry people to understand the changing trends.” Teachers can use modern tools like smartphones to connect with students and explain concepts. NM Kondap, Former Vice-Chancellor (VC) of Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS) University said, “The young generation is a massive user of the internet and social media.”
Adding to it, Rajesh Khajuria, Director SMJV CKSV Institute of Management, said, “Instead of banning smartphones in classrooms, teachers can use these phones to explain basic lessons. It can be an interactive activity where technology can be instrumental in building connections.”