Jain (Deemed-to-be University) is at the forefront of implementing project-based learning to enhance the learning experience in online classroom.
With the current pandemic forcing educational institutes across the globe to cordon off their campuses, various universities have suspended regular classroom sessions and migrated to e-learning. Jain (Deemed-to-be University) is at the forefront of implementing project-based learning to enhance the learning experience in online classroom.

Project-based learning is a particularly strong strategy introduced by the university during the online learning phase for challenging students toward effective learning outcome. Since the online group projects model real-world application, the university in association with its industry partners has created applications and programs that are designed for collaborative projects.

For instance, post graduate students and faculty at the School of Sciences, Jain (Deemed-to-be University) have collaborated online on a research project about COVID-19. A paper, authored jointly by Ms. Dipti and Dr. K.V. Ramesh titled: “Binding site analysis of potential protease inhibitors of COVID-19 using Auto Dock” from bioinformatics, domain has been accepted for publication in a Web of Sciences indexed Springer Journal, “Virus Disease” (formerly Indian Journal of Virology). As part of Springer’s commitment towards sharing knowledge with the whole world about the outbreak, the research findings, and the paper have been shared by Springer journal with the World Health Organization.

Dr. Geetha Balakrishna, Director of Centre of Nano Material Sciences at Jain (Deemed-to-be University) explained that a perspective article on “Use of Ozone to combat coronavirus was prepared by a faculty from the Centre through online collaboration with Dr. N M Sowmya, from Pharmacology division of US Research Laboratory. Also, through a concerted effort of faculty to collaborate online, a project titled “Development of Inexpensive Antiviral and Antibacterial Face Masks by using Conformal Coating of Cu₂O, CuO and ZnO onto the Wearable Fabrics, Polymers and 3D Carbonaceous Materials” has been submitted to the Nanomisson Wing of Department of Science and Technology, Government of India.

“I was pleasantly surprised to discover that it is possible to generate a higher-order cognitive discourse with my Ph.D. students on an online platform. I had always assumed that face- to- face interface was a must to interact with learners on abstract topics like ‘personality’”, says Dr. Harold Patrick, Dean (Academics) of CMS Business School.

Aravinth Mahesh, a final year student pursuing BBA says, “The transition from classroom to online medium has been smooth and the experience is exceptional. Our professors are available to us even after the lecture sessions are over. I appreciate the prompt response of the University officials in commissioning in a robust technology that was easily integrated with our LMS platform”.

The University has rolled out a combination of not only online platforms like Google Classroom, Google Hangouts Meet but also methodologies to promote interactive learning through demonstration, to emulate the learning experience in a classroom. For instance, while teaching the students “Security Features” as part of the module on cloud computing, the faculty shared the tools beforehand with learners and then interactively explored the security features of multiple platforms like AWS, CISCO, and Microsoft during a video conference. Eventually, the learners were encouraged to write code and share the screenshot of the output through Google Classroom which was then used to evaluate the output and interact with the students.

“The students are sent their time-table for the week by their respective Heads of Department well in advance. Being a tech-savvy generation, we have a great response from the students with over 90% being able to submit their revisions and study plans daily”, quoted Dr. Vasu B A, Director, School of Commerce. “The faculty have undergone extensive training on the technologies and tools required for virtual sessions. Although internet connectivity may be a concern for a few students, we have addressed the issue through facilitation of recorded sessions, on the LMS platform”.

In conclusion, Dr. Chenraj Roychand, President, Jain (Deemed-to-be University) said, “Our faculty and students, with the right kind of support and guidance, have constantly innovated and found new ways of achieving outcomes through online collaboration using a repertoire of ‘fit for the purpose’ tools and platforms.

About Jain (Deemed-to-be University)
Ranked among the premier Universities in the country, Jain (Deemed-to-be University) has state-of-the-art campuses, 89 international and national collaborations with 5000+ students getting placed in prominent positions in top-notch companies across the globe every year. With an illustrious history of developing talent, it is known for its innovative, cutting-edge industry relevant courses.