‘The university encourages participation in various activities; fosters skill development’

Madhu Kumari, a B.Ed student at Apeejay Stya University, reflects on her meaningful learning journey at the School of Education in this interview. She highlights the friendly and supportive academic environment, interactive classroom practices, and experiential teaching methods that bridge theory with real school settings. Madhu also shares her aspirations for a more technology-driven curriculum, including AI and digital education, to better equip future teachers for evolving classroom needs while fostering holistic and socially responsible educators. Read edited excerpts:

How would you describe the overall teaching–learning environment in the School of Education at Apeejay Stya University?

The overall environment in the School of Education is friendly, supportive, and positive, where students feel comfortable learning, asking questions, and expressing their ideas.

In what ways do your teachers make classroom teaching interactive, engaging, and connected to real school practices?

Teachers often use discussions, real classroom examples, activities, and practical tasks like lesson planning and presentations, which make classes interesting and connected to real school teaching.

How effectively are innovative teaching methods such as experiential learning, ICT integration, group discussions, or projects used in your programme?

These methods are used regularly through group work, ICT tools, projects, and hands-on activities, helping us understand concepts better and learn through experience.

Do you feel that the curriculum prepares you well for the realities of school teaching and professional life? Please share an example.

The curriculum provides a good foundation for school teaching through activities like lesson planning, micro-teaching, and internships; however, there is scope for improvement by including more field excursions, regular school visits, and hands-on practical learning. Adding AI-based and digital education courses as core components would further enhance our teaching skills and better prepare us for modern classroom requirements.

In what ways do internal assessments, practicum, school internships, and reflective assignments help in your professional growth as a future teacher?

The assessment system is fair and transparent, and teachers provide regular feedback through internal assessments, assignments, and presentations.

How supportive and approachable are the faculty members when it comes to academic guidance, mentoring, and evaluation feedback?

These experiences help us improve our teaching skills, confidence, and understanding of students by allowing us to apply what we learn in real classrooms.

What role do seminars, workshops, FDPs, community engagement, and co-curricular activities play in enhancing your learning experience?

Faculty members are very approachable and supportive, and they guide us patiently whenever we need academic help or feedback.

How does Apeejay Stya University contribute to your holistic development beyond academics—such as leadership, values, and social responsibility?

These activities help us learn beyond textbooks, improve our communication skills, and understand the importance of social responsibility and professional growth.

How does Apeejay Stya University contribute to your holistic development beyond academics—such as leadership, values, and social responsibility?

The university encourages participation in activities, teamwork, and community work, which helps us develop leadership skills, values, and a sense of responsibility

If you had to describe your experience at the School of Education and ASU in one sentence for future aspiring teachers, what would it be?

Studying at the School of Education, ASU has been a meaningful learning journey that prepares us both academically and practically for our future as teachers.