Interviews
‘Innovation is the backbone of our curriculum’
A final-year student from Apeejay’ School of Education shares how the learning environment is deeply student-centric and collaborative
Nitu, a final-year B.Ed student at the School of Education, Apeejay Stya University, Gurugram, brings a reflective and practice-driven perspective to teacher education. Having completed her school internship at DAV School, Vasant Kunj, she shares how hands-on learning, innovative pedagogy, and strong faculty mentorship at ASU have shaped her professional journey and prepared her to step confidently into real classrooms as a future educator. Read edited excerpts:
How would you describe the overall teaching–learning environment in the School of Education at Apeejay Stya University?
The environment is deeply student-centric and collaborative. It feels less like a traditional classroom and more like a professional laboratory where we are encouraged to question, explore, and innovate. The atmosphere is intellectually stimulating, fostering a culture of mutual respect between students and faculty.
In what ways do your teachers make classroom teaching interactive, engaging, and connected to real school practices?
Teachers make classroom teaching interactive through discussions, case studies, lesson planning, micro-teaching, and sharing real classroom experiences from schools
How effectively are innovative teaching methods such as experiential learning, ICT integration, group discussions, or projects used in your programme?
Innovation is the backbone of our curriculum. We don’t just talk about ICT; we use tools like interactive whiteboards, educational apps, and LMS platforms in our own presentations. Experiential learning is constant, with projects that require us to design our own teaching aids and curriculum modules.
Do you feel that the curriculum prepares you well for the realities of school teaching and professional life? Please share an example.
Yes, it is highly practical. For example, the module on Inclusive Education didn’t just teach theory; it required us to create a “Differentiated Lesson Plan” for a classroom with diverse learning needs. This prepared me to enter a real classroom and ensure no child is left behind.
How would you evaluate the assessment and evaluation system in terms of fairness, transparency, and continuous feedback?
The system is incredibly transparent. We are assessed through a “Continuous Comprehensive Evaluation” (CCE) model. The assessment system is fair and continuous, with regular feedback through internal assessments, assignments, presentations, and practicum evaluations.
In what ways do internal assessments, practicum, school internships, and reflective assignments help in your professional growth as a future teacher?
The School Internship is a turning point. It acts as a bridge between theory and reality. Reflective assignments force us to look back at our teaching days, identify our mistakes, and improve. This cycle of “Plan-Act-Reflect” is what truly builds our professional confidence.
How supportive and approachable are the faculty members when it comes to academic guidance, mentoring, and evaluation feedback?
The faculty members act more like mentors and guides than traditional instructors. They maintain an “open-door policy,” making it easy to seek guidance on anything from academic doubts to career advice or emotional well-being.
What role do seminars, workshops, FDPs, community engagement, and co-curricular activities play in enhancing your learning experience?
These activities provide the “extra edge.” Workshops on NCTE regulations or National Education Policy (NEP) keep us updated on the legal and structural side of education, while community engagement projects help us develop empathy and a sense of social duty.
How does Apeejay Stya University contribute to your holistic development beyond academics—such as leadership, values, and social responsibility?
ASU’s Liberal Arts philosophy allows us to take electives outside our core field, which broadens our perspective. Leadership is encouraged through student-led clubs and committees, ensuring we graduate not just as teachers, but as empathetic leaders and responsible citizens.
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?
It is a transformative journey that turns a student into a visionary educator, equipped with the heart to inspire and the skills to lead a modern classroom.
