Mentorship in a Digital Age How Inspirational Educators Are Fostering Personal Growth in Online Learning
Vice Chancellor, Birla Global University
Cultivating Minds, Changing the World
Inspiringchangethroughknowledgeisthebedrockof progressandchangeinourworld.Itempowers people,communitiesandorganizationstobreakfree fromlimitationsandchallengethestatusquoinmaking meaningfulchanges.Onedoorofpossibilityopensdoors ofinnovation,fostersacultureofcontinuouslearning, andsoon.
Knowledgeempowerspeopletomakeinformeddecisions forthemselvesandforsocietyatlarge,advocatefor themselvesandhelpintheimprovementofsociety Educationisanawakeningofsomethingdeeperandmore profoundwithinaperson’slearning,criticalthinkingand problem-solving.Andasweinspireagenerationtowant toknow,we'llbebuildingasocietytrulycapableof facingthosetough,big-timechallengeslikeclimate change,inequality,andmore.
Educatorswhoinspirechangerealizeverywellthat educationisthebesttoolforupliftingcommunities.They createeasy-to-accessandinclusivelearningenvironments fordiversepopulations'needs.Theirvisionisfairly unconventional,butitopensthepossibilitiesof knowledgeforcreativity,innovationandabetterfuture basedonsocialjusticeandsustainabledevelopment. Knowledgeforchangeisindeedwhatwouldempower thoseseekingtobeinspiredbyittofacilitateabrighter worldforall.
Inlinewithourongoingcommitmenttohighlightthose inspiringchangethroughthepowerofknowledge, The Knowledge Review India isproudtopresentitslatestedition, InspirationalEducators:LeadersShapingtheFutureof Learningin2024 Thiseditioncelebratesvisionaryeducators whoareredefiningtheboundariesoflearningandmakinga lastingimpactoneducation.Onthecover,wearehonouredto feature Prof. Premendu Prakash Mathur,anexemplary leaderwhoseinnovativeapproachesarepavingthewayfor thefutureoflearning.
Inthisedition,wealsofeaturetheinspiringprofileof Payal Khanna,aneducationalleaderwhosededicationtofosteringa cultureoflearningexcellencecontinuestoresonate throughoutherinstitution.Similarly,wespotlight Prof. (Dr.) Rakesh Ranjan,whoseextensivecontributionstoeducation haveenrichedcountlesslives,blendingacademicrigourwith practicalinsightstocreateawell-roundedlearningexperience. ThiseditionalsoincludesaspecialCXOarticleby Professor Vijay Anand Dubey onthetopicof Educational Policy and Its Impact on College Leadership
Flip the pages to learn more about the torch-bearers of change through knowledge!
MuskanKapoor
-Muskan Kapoor
PROFILES
Payal Khanna
Addressing Inclusivity and Accessibility in Education
Prof. (Dr.) Rakesh Ranjan
Leading the Way in Agile and Inclusive Learning
ARTICLES
Mentorship in a Digital Age
How Inspirational Educators are Fostering
Personal Growth in Online Learning
Sustainability in the Curriculum
How Visionary Educators are Embedding
Environmental Stewardship in Learning
20
Creators
of this Publication
Editor-in-Chief
Pooja Bansal
Managing Editor
Muskan Kapoor
Assisting Editors
Sudhakar Singh
Art & Design Head and Visualiser
Rahul Shinde
Co-designer
Sarita Bhagat
Sr. Vice President
Swapnali Vasaikar
BDM
Naitiki Ambekar
Asst. Vice President
Ashwini Pahurkar
Team Lead
Ishita Rathod Sr. BDE
Vikram Chauhan
Technical Specialist
Rajeshwari Avhad
SME-SMO Executive
Sagar Lahigade
Digital Marketing Manager
Renuka Kulkarni
Circulation Manager
Tanaji Fartade
SEPTEMBER, 2024
sales@theknowledgereview.in
theknowledgereview theknowledgerv
Follow us on CORPORATE OFFICE The Knowledge Review
We are also Available on
Survey No.133/134, Brand Square, Office No. 512,Kunjir Chowk, Pimple Saudagar, Pune, Maharashtra 411027.
Phone - India: +91 7410079881/ 82/83/ 84/ 85
Email: info@theknowledgereview.in
For Subscription: theknowledgereview.in
Inspirational EDUCATORS: Leaders Shaping the of Learning in 2024
Brief Featuring
Payal Khanna
Premendu Prakash Mathur
Prof. (Dr.) Rakesh Ranjan
Prof. Arvind Choubey
Prof. Sunil Kumar Khare
Designation
Deputy Director & Head of the Centre for Leadership Coaching, Shoolini University
Vice Chancellor, Birla Global University
Vice Chancellor, Sushant University
Professor, National Institute of Technology, Jamshedpur
Director, Indian Institute of Science Education & Research (IISER), Kolkata
Payal fosters a safe and supportive learning environment, promotes equitable access and utilizes learning analytics to benefit students, effectively preparing them for future challenges and opportunities.
Prof. Mathur remains dedicated to addressing current educational challenges by fostering an environment of open feedback and prioritizing student input.
Prof. (Dr.) Rakesh's commitment to innovative pedagogy, personalised learning and inclusive education reflects his dedication to equipping students with the skills needed for future success.
Prof. Arvind emphasizes practical, hands-on learning and critical thinking to equip students with technical skills and innovation mindsets to tackle complex engineering challenges.
Prof. Sunil's research-driven leadership has enhanced the institute's reputation for scientific excellence, mentoring future innovators while promoting interdisciplinary collaboration.
Cover Story
ViceChancellor, BirlaGlobalUniversity
Prof.PremenduPrakashMathur
Prof.Premendu Prakash Mathur
Integrating Traditional Values with Technological Advancements
Prof.Mathurprioritizesongoing adaptationtocontemporary technologicaladvancements, especiallysincethepandemic reshapededucationaldelivery.
Themoderneducationsectoris characterizedbyrapid technologicaladvancements,a strongemphasisondigitallearningand acommitmenttoinclusivityand accessibility.Educationleadersand vicechancellorsplayapivotalrolein transformingacademicinstitutionsto meetcontemporarychallengesand seizefutureopportunities.Their comprehensiveapproachandforwardthinkingvisionenableinstitutionsto thriveinanevolvingeducational landscape.
Theseleadersworktirelesslytofoster researchexcellence,cultivateglobal collaborationsandprioritizeinclusivity andaccessibility.Intoday’s competitiveworld,equippingstudents
with21st-centuryskillsthrough advancedlearningmanagement systemsisessential.However,the educationsectorstillfaceschallenges, suchasunequalaccesstotechnology andonlineresources.
Toaddresstheseissues,professionals employstrategieslikecollaborative learningenvironmentsand interdisciplinaryprograms,nurturing criticalthinkingandcreativityamong studentstopreparethemforthe dynamicdemandsofthemodern workforce.Leadersremaindedicated tomaintainingeducationalquality throughrigorousstandardsand innovativeteachingmethodologies, ensuringthatstudentsreceivea comprehensiveandforward-looking education.
Prof.PremenduPrakashMathur, ViceChancellorofBirlaGlobal University,exemplifiesextraordinary charismamarkedbyintegrity, consistentmoralvalues,high competence,andself-confidence.His visionaryapproachandextensive experienceensureeffectiveleadership andstrategicdirectionforthe institution.
Committedtoupholdingacademic excellenceandensuringstudent success,heemploysinnovative strategiesthatintegratetraditional educationalvalueswiththelatest advancements.Hisprimaryobjectiveis tofosteradynamicandinclusive learningenvironmentthatequips studentswithessentialskillstoexcelin today'scompetitiveworld.
Underhisleadership,theuniversityhas implementedpivotalinitiativessuchas digitalintegration,mandatoryonline coursesalignedwithNEP2020 guidelinesandtheestablishmentof state-of-the-artsmartclassrooms.These initiativesaimtokeepstudentsatthe forefrontoftechnologicaladvancements, preparingthemcomprehensivelyforthe challengesofthemodernworkforce.
Prof.Mathurremainsdedicatedto addressingcurrenteducational challengesbyfosteringanenvironment ofopenfeedbackandprioritizing studentinput.Bycontinuously evaluatingtheeffectivenessofteaching methods,hisproactiveapproachensures theuniversitynotonlymeetsbut exceedsrigorousacademicstandards. Withaclearvisionforthefuture,heis
AdherencetotheNational EducationPolicy(NEP)2020has ledtothemandatoryinclusionof onlinecourses,broadening educationalhorizonsandensuring studentsgainversatileskillsaligned withmoderndemands.
“
Prof.Mathurholdsthecorevalue thatstudentsshouldhaveaccessto thebestresourcesavailable.
steadfastinhiscommitmentto empoweringstudentsanddrivingthe universitytowardunprecedented success.
RevolutionizingtheLearning Experience
Prof.Mathurreceivedhiseducationat BanarasHinduUniversity,wherehe completedhisdoctoratebeforejoining KurukshetraUniversityasalecturer HethenwentabroadonaRockefeller FoundationfellowshiptoNewYork, wherehewasassociatedwiththe RockefellerUniversityandthe PopulationCouncil,NewYork,USA. Thisexperienceprofoundlychanged hislife.
In1988,Prof.Mathurjoinedthenewly establishedCentralUniversityin Pondicherry,whereheintroduced severalsuccessfulcoursesincluding biochemistry,molecularbiologyand bioinformatics.
Today,bioinformaticsand computationalbiologyhavebecome prominentcoursesnationwide.Healso servedastheViceChancellorofKIIT University,Bhubaneswar,forfive years,duringwhichhesignificantly enhancedtheuniversity'sfunctioning andacademicstandards.Underhis leadership,publications,citationsand projectssawsubstantialgrowth.
Forthepastfouryears,hehasbeenthe ViceChancellorofBirlaGlobal University,wherehehasintroduced newcoursessuchasMCA,BCAand datascience.Theuniversityisnowin theprocessoflaunchingaB.Tech.in ComputerScienceEngineering.The numberofstudentshasnearlydoubled inthepastthreeyears,thesyllabihave beenrevisedandcreditshavebeen reduced.
Additionally,offeringCourseracourses hasrevolutionizedthelearning
experienceforstudentsandthe teachingaptitudeofthefaculty.The numberofstudentsseekingadmission hasmarkedlyincreasedduringhis tenure.Undertheableleadershipof Prof.Mathur,theUniversityalsogot NAACaccreditation.
ALegacyofTeaching
Prof.Mathurwasinspiredbyhis father,Prof.O.P.Mathur—aprofessor ofEnglishatBanarasHindu University,whoseinfluencemotivated himtopursueacareerinteaching. BanarasHinduUniversityprovided himwithnumerousopportunitiesfor self-explorationandself-learning.He isgenuinelygladhechosethis profession,ashehasalwaysbeen passionateaboutseeingstudents flourish,prosperandevolve,ensuring theygetthebestoutoftheeducational system.
EmbracingDigitalTeaching Methods
Prof.Mathurhasbeeninthefieldfora longtime,witnessingand understandingthechangesinteaching methodologyoverthelast40years. Alwaysstayingupdatedwithnewer technologies,hehasembraceddigital methodologiesforteaching.
DuringCOVID,heensuredthe universityhadallthenecessary facilitiestoteachthroughdigital modes,successfullyrunningthe teachingprogramonline.Currently, withtheimplementationofsmart classrooms,studentscankeeptrackof thelatestsubjectsandcontinuetheir educationwithmodern,innovative tools.
StudentswithTop-tierEducational Resources
Prof.Mathurholdsthecorevaluethat studentsshouldhaveaccesstothebest resourcesavailable.Believingthat studentsmustremainthecentralfocus
oftheinstitution,hehasalwaysstrived toensuretheyreceivetop-tier educationalresourcesand opportunitiestolearnfromindustry experts.Thisapproachhasledto excellentplacementopportunities, significantlyboostingtheircareer progression.
MeetingDiverseLearningNeeds
Prof.Mathurhastailoredthecourses toensurestudentsexperienceasmooth transitionfromschooltouniversity Bridgecourseshavebeen implementedtopreventabrupt increasesinsubjectdifficulty.Students utilizeavarietyofonlineandoffline learningresourcestomeettheir diverseneeds.Heisparticularly pleasedwiththementoringsystemin place,whichsignificantlyenhancesthe students'learningexperience.
TechnologicalAdvancementsin Education
Prof.Mathurprioritizesongoing adaptationtocontemporary technologicaladvancements, especiallysincethepandemic reshapededucationaldelivery Technologynowplaysapivotalrolein redefininginstructionalstrategiesand facilitatingmoredynamicand interactivelearningexperiences.By integratingaccreditedtoolsinto teachingmethods,heaimstooptimize studentengagementand comprehension.
Concurrently,adherencetothe NationalEducationPolicy(NEP)2020 hasledtothemandatoryinclusionof onlinecourses,broadeningeducational horizonsandensuringstudentsgain versatileskillsalignedwithmodern demands.Thiscommitmentnotonly improvesaccesstoeducationbutalso thoroughlypreparesstudentsforthe evolvingprofessionallandscapeinan increasinglydigitalworld.
TheInstitution'sVisionforStudents Prof.Mathurhasconsistentlyuphelda visionwherestudentsreceivethe utmostbenefitfromtheeducational system,ensuringtheinstitutionoffers educationtailoredtofacilitate seamlessjobplacementintheir chosenfields.Emphasizingquality assurance,theinstitutioniscommitted toNAACaccreditation,affirmingits dedicationtohighstandards.
Additionally,allcoursesare meticulouslyalignedwiththe guidelinesoutlinedintheNational EducationPolicy(NEP)2020,further enhancingandpreparingstudents effectivelyfortheirprofessional journeys.
AssessingEducationalMethodswith StudentFeedback
Intheirapproach,adiverserangeof methodsisemployed,aspreviously discussed.Theyactivelyencourage studentstoprovidefeedbackonthe educationalexperienceofferedbythe institution,withbothmanagementand facultyplacingparamountimportanceon thesesuggestions.
Thisstudentinputservesasacritical gaugetoevaluatetheeffectivenessoftheir methodsandinitiatives.Byprioritizing andintegratingstudentfeedbackintotheir practices,theyensurecontinuous improvementandalignmentwithevolving studentneedsandexpectations,thereby enhancingtheoveralleducationalquality andexperience.
TheImportanceofSkill DevelopmentinModernEducation Educationholdsapivotalroleinlife, havingbeenintegraltosocietal advancementsinceancienttimes. Historically,itsprimaryaimwasto broadenknowledgeanddeepen understandingoftheworld.
However,contemporaryeducation hasadvancedsignificantly,now emphasizingpracticalskillsand employability.Itiscrucialto acknowledgetheseshiftsandensure thatstudentsareequippedwiththe requisiteskillsandcompetenciesto navigateandsucceedamidst evolvingglobalchallenges.
Payal Khanna Deputy Director and Head of the Centre for Leadership Coaching, Shoolini University
"Payal’s longterm goal as an educator is to empower students to transcend their limitations and become confident, selfreliant individuals who create meaningful value in society.
Payal Khanna
Addressing Inclusivity and Accessibility in Educa on
Tzhemoderneducationindustry
isdefinedbyitsdedicationto empoweringstudentswith innovativetoolsandimplementing creativeteachingstrategieswhile prioritizingaccessibilityanddiversity. Thisblendofadvancedstrategies, inventiveteachingmethodsanda strongfocusoninclusivityfosters criticalthinking,creativityand problem-solvingskillsamongstudents. Itensuresthatstudentsarenotonly academicallyproficientbutalso emotionallyandsociallypreparedto thriveinaglobalizedworld.
Thesestrategiesarechampionedbya selectgroupofproficientleaderswho leveragecutting-edgetechnologiesto enhancestudentengagementand improvelearningoutcomes.These leadersexcelinproject-basedlearning, continuousprofessionaldevelopment andnurturingacollaborativeculture. Theyaddresschallengessuchas unequalaccesstoresourcesand outdatedteachingmethods,drivingthe educationindustryforward.
Adaptingtotheseadvancementswitha passionforenhancingstudents’ learningexperiencesandacommitmenttomakingeducationdemocratic
isessential.PayalKhanna—the DeputyDirectorandHeadofthe CentreforLeadershipCoachingat ShooliniUniversity,advocatesfora comprehensiveapproachwithinthe educationsector.Shefostersasafeand supportivelearningenvironment, promotesequitableaccessandutilizes learninganalyticstobenefitstudents, effectivelypreparingthemforfuture challengesandopportunities.
ThePowerofReflectiveInquiry
Payal’sjourneyineducationbegan withafocusoncultivatinghigherorderthinkingskillsessentialfor analyzing,evaluatingandcreating, movingbeyondrotememorization. Thisapproachhasbeenappliedto studentsagedthreeto23,highlighting theneedforadaptiveeducational methodsacrossagegroups.
Apivotalmilestoneinhercareerwas integratingICFexecutivecoaching intoacademia,aprogramrecognized withtheTimesHigherEducation AwardforStudentSupportinAsiain 2022andendorsedbytheInternational CoachingFederation.
Thisinitiativepromotesself-discovery andreflectiveinquiry,enhancingboth
academicperformanceandpersonal growth.Throughinnovativepractices, Payalhasdedicatedhereffortsto enhancingcriticalthoughtandselfgrowth,leadingtoprofoundstudent transformationsandwidespread recognitionofherapproach.
CreatingValuethroughEducation
Payal’sjourneyintoeducationwas profoundlyinfluencedbyTsunesaburo Makiguchi’sinfluentialwork,"ValueCreating Education."Makiguchi’s visionofeducationasacatalystfor individualgrowthandsocietalprogress deeplyresonatedwithher.Payal’s commitmenttocreatingvaluethrough educationbecamethecornerstoneof hereducationalphilosophy
Furthershapingherapproachwasthe philosophyofSokaGakkai International,particularlyunderthe guidanceof Dr. Daisaku Ikeda.Dr. Ikeda’steachingsbuildupon Makiguchi’sprinciples,advocatingfor globalpeaceandhumanisticvalues. SGI’semphasisonunlockingeach person’spotentialandpromotinga cultureofpeacealignsperfectlywith Payal’sbeliefineducationasavehicle forpersonalandcollective transformation.
"
To assess the impact of Payal’s teaching strategies, she employs a dual approach using personal and institutional metrics.
Thus,Payal’sinitialinspirationhasprogressedfromvaluingeducationasatoolfor personalachievementtoembracingits potentialtocontributetotheoverall progressofthecommunityandglobal harmony
PromotingGlobalHarmonyinEducation
InspiredbyMakiguchi,shebelievesin value-creatingeducationthatenables studentstocontributepositivelytosociety. Sheassertsthateducationshouldmake studentshappy,emphasizingthe"Happy Student Concept."
FollowingIkeda’svision,sheencourages respectforhumanityandglobaltogetherness byemphasizingoncompassion,respectfor diversityandsocialresponsibility,guiding studentstomakeapositiveimpactonthe world.Sheaddressesacademic,personal, emotional,andethicalgrowthtoensure holisticdevelopment.Payal’sapproachto student-centeredlearningtailorsexperiences tomeetdifferentiatedneeds,empowering studentstotakechargeoftheirlives.
CollaborationwithReciprocal TeachingandPeerLearning
Payalhasrolledoutinnovative instructionalpracticestoincrease studentparticipationandacademic achievement.Sheincorporateshandsonclassroomactivitiesandutilizes graphicorganizerstohelpstudents graspabstractconceptsmore effectively.
Mnemonicsandacronymsare employedtosimplifycomplex information,whilerolereversalsand roleplayactivitiesareusedtobuild empathyandcriticalthinkingskills. Additionally,Payalencourages reciprocalteachingandpeer-to-peer learningtopromotecollaborationand activeparticipationamongstudents.
Tofurthersupportcreativityand learning,shehasintroducedbuddy programsandfacilitatedthecreationof documentaries.Payalalsoencourages studentstoparticipateindesigning theirexampapers,whichenhances theirengagementandpromotesdeeper understandingofthesubjectmatter Furthermore,sheintegratesprojectbasedlearningtoconnectclassroom knowledgewithreal-world applications.
Innovativeapproachessuchasthe flippedclassroommodelandSocratic seminarsarealsoemployedbyPayalto cultivateanalyticalthinkingandcreate interactivelearningenvironmentsfor herstudents.
UnveilingtheImpactofTeaching Methods
Assessingtheimpactofteachingcan bedaunting,yetseveralexamples underscoreitsprofoundeffects.Payal's classroomanduniversity-wide interventions,employingtargeted coachingtechniques,havegarnered extensivefeedbackfromhundredsof students,supportedbyadedicated
teamofcoaches.Manystudentshave reportedsubstantialadvancementin communication,confidenceand professionalskills,whichhave propelledtheircareergrowthand personaldevelopment.
Payal'sstudytechniqueshavealso beencreditedwithstudents'successin competitiveexams,underscoringtheir practicalinfluenceonacademic performance.Moreover,studentshave experiencedstrongernetworkingand influencingskillsandimprovedselfesteem,significantlyimpactingtheir personalandprofessionallives.These qualitativeoutcomes,reinforcedby studenttestimonials,vividlyillustrate thedeepimpactofherteaching methods.
TheImpactofMultimediaContent onLearning
Payalusestechnologytocreate engagingandinteractivelearning environments.Forexample,she utilizesLearningManagementSystems (LMS)likeEUnivtodelivercourse materials,manageassignmentsand facilitatediscussions,providinga centralizedhubforstudent engagement.
CollaborativetoolssuchasGoogle Workspaceenablereal-time collaborationongroupprojectsand peerfeedback,boostingteamworkand communicationskills.Additionally, sheincorporatesmultimediacontentby usingplatformslikeMentimeterand Kahoot!forinteractivequizzesand Edpuzzleforinteractionalvideo assignments,makinglearningmore engagingandreinforcingkeyconcepts.
EnhancingTeachingEffectiveness
Toassesstheimpactofherteaching strategies,sheemploysadualapproach usingpersonalandinstitutional metrics.Sheregularlycollectsstudent feedbackthroughsurveysandcourse
evaluationstogaugeperceptionsofher teachingmethodsandtheirimpacton learningoutcomes.Analyzingstudent performanceacrossassignments, examsandprojectsallowsherto measuretheefficacyofherapproach andpinpointareasforbetterment.
Monitoringparticipationratesin classroomactivitiesandonline resourceutilizationhelpsevaluate studentengagementandinteraction levels.Teamingupwithpeersthrough observationsandreviewsoffers additionalperspectivesonthe effectivenessofherteachingmethods. Payalalsoutilizeslearninganalytics frommanagementsystemstotrack studentprogressandassesshowthey interactwithcoursematerials, identifyingareaswhereadditional supportmaybebeneficial.
Bycombiningthesemethodswith institutionalevaluations,Payalgainsa comprehensiveunderstandingofthe effectivenessofherteachingstrategies. Thisapproachguidescontinuous improvementandensureshermethods arealignedwithaugmentingstudent learningexperienceseffectively.
NurturingStudents'Potentialand Purpose
Payal’slong-termgoalasaneducator istoempowerstudentstotranscend theirlimitationsandbecomeconfident, self-reliantindividualswhocreate meaningfulvalueinsociety.Sheaims tofosternotjustacademicsuccessbut holisticdevelopment,wherestudents enhancetheirreasoningabilityand abilitytotacklechallengesand emotionalresilience.Bynurturingtheir potentialandinstillingasenseof purpose,sheaspirestopreparethemto beleadersandcontributorswho transformtheircommunitiesforthe betterandupliftothers.
How Inspirational Educators are Fostering Personal Growth in Online Learning
Thecreationofonlinelearninghas
transformedtheeducationalsector, offeringunprecedentedaccessto knowledgeandresources.Withnumerous coursesofguidesavailable,university collegestudentscannowpursuetheir interestsattheirownpace,frequently transcendinggeographicandsocioeconomic obstacles.
Thisshiftfromconventionalschoolroomsto virtualenvironmentshasnecessitateda reevaluationofcoachingstrategies, emphasizingtheimportanceofengagement andpersonalconnectioninadigitalspace.
Inthiscontext,inspirationaleducators areemergingaskeyfigureswhonot onlydelivercontentmaterialbutalso facilitatepersonalboomamongsttheir collegestudents.Theseeducators understandthattheenergyoflearning extendspastacademicfulfillment;it encompassesemotionalandsocial improvementaswell.
Byperformingasmentorsinthis digitalage,theyprovideimportant skillsthatfostersresilience,creativity andvitallearning.Mentorshipina virtualageincludesusingtheerato bridgegapsandcreateasenseof communityandbelonging.Thisis importantforinexperiencedhumans.
Throughpersonalizedinteractionsand tailor-madeguidance,inspirational educatorsplayanimperativefunction indevelopingpersonalgrowthin onlinelearningenvironments, supportingcollegestudentstonavigate theiracademicjourneyswithselfbeliefandmotive.
TheRoleofInspirationalEducators
Inspirationaleducatorsarenotmerely conveyorsofinformation;theyare catalystsfortradeandgrowth.In onlinereadingenvironments,those educatorsemployseveralpedagogical strategiestoengagewiththeir universitystudentsefficiently
Byincorporatingmultimediaproperty, interactiveassignmentsandrealinternationalapplications,theycreatea stimulatingenvironmentthat encouragesexplorationandinquiry.
Furthermore,inspirationaleducators regularlypercentagetheirprivate testimoniesanddemandingsituations, makingthelearningprocessrelatable andaccessible.Thistransparency fostersbeliefandopensstrainsof verbalexchange,allowingcollege
studentstofeelcomfortableexpressing theirthoughtsandconcerns.
Theresultisadynamiclearning environmentwherepersonalgrowth flourishes,drivenbytheeducator's passionforcoachingandteachingand dedicationtostudentsuccess.
DevelopingPersonalGrowth
Personalgrowthinonlinelearning encompassesawidearrayofabilities, alongwithemotionalintelligence,selfregulationandresilience.Inspirational educatorsplayanimportantrolein nurturingthoseattributeswiththeaid ofencouragingcollegestudentstoset andpursuepersonalgoals.
Throughconstructivefeedbackand encouragement,educatorsassist collegestudentsindevelopinga growthmindset,whichisvitalfor overcomingboundariesandembracing challenges.
Inaddition,onlinelearning environmentspermitextraflexibility, enablingcollegestudentstotake ownershipoftheirinstructional journeys.Inspirationaleducatorsassist thisself-directedmethodbyoffering assetsandguidancetailoredto individuallearningstyles.
Theyencourageuniversitystudentsto interactinreflectivepractices,helping themtoevaluatetheirdevelopmentand discoverareasfordevelopment.This techniqueenhancesacademicskills andcultivatesadeeperexperienceof self-attentionandpersonal responsibility
MentorshipinaDigitalAge
Mentorshipinadigitalageisa multifaceteddatingthattranscends traditionalbarriers.Inspirational educatorsfunctionasvirtualmentors, guidingstudentsviacustom-designed interactions,dialogueforumsand
collaborativeprojects.Thisaccessibility fostersgreatconnections,allowing collegestudentstoseekadvice,share experiencesanddevelopcritical thinkingskillsinasupportive environment.
BuildingaSupportiveCommunity
Asenseofcommunityisvitalfor personalgrowthinonlinelearning. Inspirationaleducatorsactivelyworkto cultivatethisenvironmentby encouragingcollaborationand interactionamongstudents.Online structurespermitpeer-to-peerlearning, whereinuniversitystudentscanpercent demandingsituationsandtriumphs, reinforcingtheirconnectiontoone another
TheFutureofOnlineLearningand Mentorship
Astechnologycontinuestoevolve,the futureofonlinestudyingholds substantialcapabilityforpersonal growthandmentorship.Inspirational educatorswillincreasinglyharnessthe emergingera,inconjunctionwith artificialintelligenceandvirtualreality, tocreategreaterimmersiveand interactivelearningexperiences.These improvementswillallowcustomized studyingpaths,permittingcollege studentstofindouttopicsatarobust level.
EndNote
Inspirationaleducatorsaredeveloping personalgrowththroughonlinelearning throughpowerfulmentorship techniquesanddevelopingsupportive organizationsthatempowercollege students.
Lookingforward,astechnology continuestotransformeducation,the positionoftheseeducatorswillbe pivotalinshapingfuturelearning experiences,ensuringthatpersonal growthremainsacornerstoneofonline learninginthedigitalage.
22 | September 2024
Check should be drawn in favor of
CORPORATE OFFICE
Survey No.133/134, Brand Square, Office No. 512, Kunjir Chowk, Pimple Saudagar, Pune, Maharashtra 411027
Phone - India: +91 7410079881/ 82/ 83/ 84/ 85
Email: info@theknowledgereview.in For Subscription: theknowledgereview.in
Prof.(Dr.)
Rakesh Ranjan
Leading the Way in Agile and Inclusive Learning
Leadersshapingthefutureoflearningare
distinguishedbytheirinsightfulapproach,driving progressivechangesthattransfigurehoweducationis delivered,experiencedandevaluated.Theseforward-thinking individualssurpasstraditionaleducationalboundariesby integratinginnovativepracticesandthelatesttechnologiesto createadaptive,learner-centeredenvironments.
Prof.(Dr.)RakeshRanjan,theViceChancelloratSushant Universityexemplifiesthisstrategicleadershipineducation. Heisdedicatedtodevelopingacultureofcontinuous improvement,inclusivityandglobalrelevance.Viewing educationasagrowingfield,heemphasisesaholistic approachthatdevelopsstudents'criticalthinking,creativity andemotionalintelligence.Hiscommitmenttoinnovative pedagogy,personalisedlearning,globalcollaboration,and inclusiveeducationreflectshisdedicationtoequipping studentswiththeskillsneededforfuturesuccess.
Heispassionateaboutbuildingafuture-readyeducational environmentthatpreparesstudentstoexcelinanadvancing worldbystrategicallyintegratingtechnology,investingin professionaldevelopmentandactivelyengagingwiththe community
CelebratingtheLegacyinAcademia
Prof..RanjanhasservedinhiscurrentrolesinceMay2022, drawingonover35yearsofdistinguishedteachingand researchexperienceatprestigiousIndianandinternational institutions.Beforethis,hewasthe Vice Chancellor at Himgiri Zee University, Dehradun,fornearlyfiveyears.
Prof.Ranjanholdsa B.E., M.E. and Ph.D. from BITS Pilani.
Hisacademiccareerbeganasa Lecturer at BITS Pilani from1993to1997,followedbysignificantinternational experiencethroughtheUNDPprogramattheDefence UniversityinAddisAbabaandtheMultimediaUniversity inMelaka,Malaysia,wherehecontributedclosetodecade.
Prof.Ranjanhasauthoredseveralinfluentialbooks, including‘RenewableEnergySources&Emerging Technologies’(PHI,India),‘SignalsandSystems’ (McGraw-Hill,Singapore/TataMcGraw-Hill,NewDelhi) and‘EnvironmentalScienceandEngineering’(Narosa PublishingHouse,2017).Hisresearchincludes184papers ininternationaljournalsand112conferencepapers, focusingonRadialDistributionSystems.Withanh-index of26andover2,900citations,hehassupervised11Ph.D. scholarsandcontributedtonumerousresearchprojects.
Recognizedglobally,heservesoninternationalcommittees andhasreceivedaccoladessuchas Marquee’s “Who’s Who in the World” forScienceandTechnologyandthe Sikhsha Rattan Award.Hiscommitmenttoacademicexcellenceand leadershipcontinuestohaveaprofoundglobalimpact.
BuildingaSupportiveAcademicCommunity
Prof.Ranjan’sjourneytobecominganeducatorstemmed fromhispassionforlearningandadesiretohelpothers graspcomplexconcepts.Thisinitialdrivelaterturnedintoa commitmenttoshapingminds,developingcriticalthinking andmentoringstudents.
Hisrolehasexpandedtoincludesignificantadministrative responsibilitieslikecurriculumdevelopment,
accreditationandqualityassurance,offeringhimabroader perspectiveoneducation.
Heisdedicatedtocreatinganinclusiveandsupportive learningenvironment,believingthateducationisacalling withthepowertoimpactstudentsandtheacademic community Theseexperiencesreinforcehiscommitmentto educationalexcellenceandleadership.
ChampioningInnovativeEducation
Prof.RanjansharesSushantUniversity’sinnovative initiativesfocusedonholisticdevelopment.Theuniversity offersdiverseacademicprogramswithindustry-specific curricula,ensuringglobalcompetitiveness.
Prof (Dr.) Rakesh Ranjan Vice Chancellor, Sushant University
"Prof. Ranjan emphasizes the university’s excellence in teaching and research, reflected in numerous awards and high rankings.
Itsglobaloutlookisstrengthenedthroughpartnershipswith leadinginternationaluniversitiesandcompaniesandits collaborationwitheminentpersonalities.Theuniversity featurestheCentreforSoftSkills,theCentreforResearch andDevelopmentandexperientiallearningplatforms.
Heemphasizestheuniversity’sexcellenceinteachingand research,reflectedinnumerousawardsandhighrankings. Heencouragesstudentstoexcelandinvitesparentstovisit, showcasingtheuniversity’scommitmenttoshapingIndia’s future.
TheImpactofMoralValuesinEducation
Prof.Ranjanviewsteachersas‘guardians of knowledge,’ inspiredby Swami Vivekananda’sphilosophyofdeveloping thewholeperson—mind,bodyandspirit.Histeaching principlesemphasizeholisticeducationbyaddressing intellectual,physical,emotional,andspiritualgrowth.
Hefocusesoncharacterbuilding,instillingmoralvaluesas wellasethicswhilepromotingspiritualgrowthfordeeper self-awareness.Heensurespracticalknowledgeby providingreal-worldskillsandemphasizesserviceto humanity,fosteringcompassion.Theseprinciplesaimto nurturewell-roundedindividualscapableofleading purposefulandimpactfullives.
ATechnologicalApproachtoEducation
Prof.Ranjanviewstechnologyasakeytoenhancing studentlearningbymakingeducationmoreengaging, personalizedandaccessible.Heintegratesmultimedia resources,virtuallabsandlearningmanagementsystems likeMoodleandCanvastosupportandcentralize learning.
HeusesadaptiveplatformssuchasSmartSparrowfor tailoredcontentandfeedbackandtoolslikeTurnitinand Grammarlytoimprovewrittenwork.Interactivetoolslike SocrativeandKahootmakeassessmentsengaging,while Poll Everywhere and Mentimeter boostparticipation. Socialmediaplatformsandglobalonlinecoursesfurther connectstudentswithindustryexpertsandbroadentheir perspectives.
StrategiesforContinuousImprovementinTeaching
Prof.Ranjanusesamulti-facetedapproachtoevaluatehis teachingeffectiveness.Heincorporatesstudentfeedback fromevaluationsandinformalcomments,analyzes performancemetricslikeexamscoresandmonitors attendanceandengagement.
Peerevaluationsofferexternalinsightswhiletracking studentoutcomesprovidesaviewoflong-termimpact. Reflectivepracticeiskey,asheassesseswhetherlearning objectivesaremetandidentifiesareasforimprovement. Thesestrategiesensurehisteachingsupportsandenhances studentlearningandsuccess.
"Prof. Ranjan focuses on integrating emerging trends and technologies, staying updated with pedagogical research and providing practical experiences.
ConnectingStudentswithCampusResources
OneofProf.Ranjan’smostrewardingexperiences involvedastudentstrugglingacademicallyandpersonally duetofinancialandfamilyissues.Heprovided mentorship,helpingthestudentmanagetimeandstress andconnectedhimwithvitalcampusresources.
Hecreatedasupportiveclassroomenvironment, encouragingparticipationandgivingtailoredfeedback. Overtime,thestudent’sattendance,engagementand performanceimprovedmarkedlyandheregained confidenceandpurpose.
Thisexperienceunderscoredhisbeliefinaddressing individualneedsandreaffirmedthatteachingextends beyondacademicstoincludepersonalguidanceand holisticsuccess.
EmpoweringStudentsthroughEducationalEquity
Prof.Ranjanaimstoenhancehisteachingand administrativerolestoprofoundlyimpactstudents'growth. Hefocusesonintegratingemergingtrendsand technologies,stayingupdatedwithpedagogicalresearch andprovidingpracticalexperiences.
Asanadministrator,parexcellence,heensureshigh academicstandardsthroughaccreditationandquality assurance.Healsoemphasizesmentorshipandeducational equity,strivingtoinspirestudentstobecomefutureleaders andcontributorstosociety.
Educational Policy and its Impact on Academic Leadership
Educationalpoliciesplayacriticalroleinshapingthe structureandfunctionofhighereducation institutions.Thesepolicies,developedatboth nationalandstatelevels,influencevariousaspectsofcollege operations,includingcurriculum,funding,governanceand studentservices.Forcollegeleaders,suchaspresidents, deansanddepartmentheads,navigatingandimplementing thesepoliciesisessentialforthesuccessandsustainabilityof theirinstitutions.Theimpactofeducationalpolicieson collegeleadershipismultifaceted,affectingstrategic planning,financialmanagement,academicstandards,andthe overallcultureoftheinstitution.
Oneofthemostsignificantwayseducationalpoliciesimpact collegeleadershipisthroughstrategicvisionandplanning. Leadersmustaligntheirinstitutionalgoalswiththebroader mandatessetbypolicymakers.Thisalignmentoftenrequires collegeleaderstomakedifficultdecisionsaboutresource allocation,programdevelopmentandinstitutionalpriorities.
Forexample,ifastatepolicyemphasizesincreasing graduationratesorimprovingjobplacement,college leadersmayneedtodevelopstrategiestomeetthese benchmarks.Thiscouldinvolvecreatingnewacademic programs,investinginstudentsupportservices,or reevaluatingexistingpractices.Theabilitytoanticipateand respondtopolicychangesiscrucialforcollegeleadersas theyguidetheirinstitutionstowardlong-termsuccess.
Educationalpoliciesalsohaveadirectimpactonthe financialmanagementofcollegesanduniversities.Policies relatedtofundingformulas,tuitionregulationandfinancial aidcansignificantlyinfluenceaninstitution'sbudgetand financialstability.Forinstance,performance-basedfunding models,whichallocatestatefundsbasedonspecific outcomeslikegraduationrates,compelcollegeleadersto focusonimprovingthesemetricstosecurenecessary funding.
About the AUTHOR
Professor Vijay Anand Dubey is a seasoned academic and professional with a rich and varied career spanning More than 3 decades. His extensive experience bridges both corporate sectors and mid to large-sized educational institutions, where he has contributed signicantly to the growth and success of organizations. His journey is marked by versatility, having managed multiple roles in academics, academic administration and various strategic functions.
Additionally,policiesthatregulatetuitionincreasesor dictatefinancialaiddistributioncanaffecttheinstitution's revenuestreamsandfinancialplanning.Collegeleaders mustcarefullymanagetheirbudgetswhileensuring compliancewiththesepolicies.Thisofteninvolves balancingtheneedforfinancialsustainabilitywiththegoal ofprovidingaccessibleandaffordableeducationtostudents.
Educationalpolicieshaveaprofoundimpactoncurriculum developmentandacademicstandardsinhighereducation. Accreditationstandards,competency-basededucation policiesandtransfercreditregulationsallinfluencewhatand howcollegesteach.
Forexample,accreditationagenciesoftenrequireinstitutions tomeetspecificlearningoutcomes,whichcandrive curriculumchangesandnecessitateadjustmentsinteaching methods.Collegeleadersmustworkcloselywithfacultyto ensurethatacademicprogramscomplywiththesestandards whilealsomeetingtheneedsofstudentsandthedemandsof thejobmarket.
Insomecases,policiesmayrequirecollegestorevisetheir curriculatoincorporatenewtechnologiesoraddress emergingfieldsofstudy.Navigatingthesechangesrequires strongleadershipandcollaborationbetweenadministrators andfaculty
Policiesaimedatpromotingaccessandequityinhigher educationareincreasinglyshapingtheprioritiesofcollege leadership.Nationalandstatepoliciesoftenmandatethat collegesincreaseaccesstounderrepresentedgroups, includingstudentsfromlow-incomebackgrounds,students ofcolorandstudentswithdisabilities.Leadersmust implementstrategiestomeetthesemandates,whichmight involveexpandingfinancialaidoptions,developingtargeted recruitmentprogramsandprovidingadditionalsupport servicesforthesepopulations.
Furthermore,policiesthatpromoteequitymayrequire collegestoaddressdisparitiesinstudentoutcomes,suchas graduationratesandacademicperformance.Collegeleaders mustensurethattheirinstitutionsnotonlycomplywiththese policiesbutalsocreateaninclusiveenvironmentwhereall studentscansucceed.
Educationalpoliciesextendbeyondoperationalconcerns andhaveasignificantinfluenceonthecultureand governanceofhighereducationinstitutions.Policiesrelated tosharedgovernance,facultyrolesandstudentrightsshape thewaydecisionsaremadewithincollegesanduniversities.
Forexample,policiesthatemphasizesharedgovernance encouragecollaborationbetweenfaculty,administratorsand studentsinthedecision-makingprocess.Thiscanleadtoa moreinclusiveandparticipatoryinstitutionalculture,where stakeholdersfeelinvestedintheinstitution'ssuccess.
Conversely,policiesthatimposetop-downmandatescan createtensionandresistanceamongfacultyandstaff, potentiallyleadingtoafracturedinstitutionalenvironment. Collegeleadersmustbeadeptatmanagingthesedynamics, fosteringacultureoftransparencyandcollaborationwhile ensuringcompliancewithpolicydirectives.
Navigatingthecomplexlandscapeofeducationalpolicies presentssignificantchallengesforcollegeleaders.They mustbalancetheoften-conflictingdemandsof policymakers,faculty,students,andotherstakeholders.
Forinstance,whilepoliciesmaydictatecertainoutcomes, facultymayresistchangesthattheyperceiveasundermining academicfreedomorthequalityofeducation.Leadersmust navigatethesetensionswhilemaintainingafocuson institutionalgoals.Oneeffectivestrategyforcollegeleaders istostayinformedaboutpolicydevelopmentsandactively engageinadvocacyefforts.Buildingrelationshipswith policymakersandaccreditationbodiescanhelpleaders influencepolicydecisionsthataffecttheirinstitutions.
Additionally,involvingtheentirecampuscommunityinthe policyimplementationprocesscanhelpmitigateresistance andfosterasenseofsharedresponsibility.
Educationalpolicieshaveafar-reachingimpactoncollege leadership,influencingeverythingfromstrategicplanning andfinancialmanagementtocurriculumdevelopmentand institutionalculture.
Forcollegeleaders,effectivelynavigatingthesepolicies requiresadeepunderstandingofthepolicyenvironment, strongleadershipskillsandacommitmenttofosteringa cultureofcollaborationandinclusivity.Bystaying informed,engagingwithstakeholdersandinvolvingthe campuscommunityinpolicyimplementation,college leaderscansuccessfullyguidetheirinstitutionsthroughthe challengesandopportunitiespresentedbyeducational policies.
Ultimately,theabilitytoadapttoandinfluenceeducational policiesisakeydeterminantofacollegeleader'ssuccessin ensuringthattheirinstitutionremainsrelevant,competitive andalignedwithsocietalgoals.
How Visionary Educators are Embedding Environmental Stewardship in Learning
Theworldisatitsmostcritical
junctureintermsofclimate change,resourcedepletionand environmentaldegradation,makingthe callforenvironmentalstewardship urgentthanever.Inresponsetothis, visionaryeducatorsarecoming forwardnotonlyasbearersofglobal solutionsbutalsoaneducation opportunitytofuturegenerationsto liveby Theyinstillenvironmental stewardshiprightintothelearning processeswhilepermittingstudentsof allagestounderstandwhyprotecting theplanetisimportant.Thisintegration goesbeyondawarenessandisabout instillingarelationshipbetween studentsandthenaturalworld,having allaspectsoftheireducationinfused withtheprinciplesofsustainability.
Introducingsustainabilityinthe curriculumisdefinitelynotapassing trend.Whatittrulydoesisbring meaningtoaspectsofourlivesthat influencehowwethinkandshapethe conceptofeducationasatoolfor buildingabettersociety.
Notsolongago,environmentalissues wouldbelookeduponassomething separateandapartfromso-calledcore subjectslikemathematics,historyand science.Todayaneducatorunderstands thatsustainabilitymustsaturateevery themeaswellaseverylesson.Whether itisteachingthescienceofclimate change,analyzingtheeconomic impactsofrenewableenergyor exploringtheculturalsignificanceof conservation,sustainabilityisnow increasinglybecomingapartofthe moderncurriculum.
Totheeducationcommunity,that impliesenvironmentalstewardship meansmorethanjustlearningabout nature—itismoreimportanttobe responsibleforthefuture.With sustainabilityputintothecurriculum, educatorsequipstudentswithallthe knowledge,skillsandattitudesneeded todriveissueshead-onconcerningthe environment.Thismakesthemnot onlywell-informedcitizensbutalso activeEarthstewards.
Let's examine how these teachers are shaping new ways of learning and nurturing a generation of great leadership that is geared toward more sustainable futures!
EmbeddingSustainabilityinCore Subjects
Oneofthesuccessfulwaysinwhich teachersareputtingforward environmentalstewardshipisthe integrationintocoresubjects.Students inscienceclasslearnabout ecosystems,theaspectsofbiodiversity andhowhumanactioncanaffectEarth. Theylearntheonlydelicatebalance betweennaturalbeingsthroughhandsonexperimentsandfieldtrips.
Othersubjects,likemathematics, wouldnotteachenvironmentalissues unlesstheycomealongwithrealdata analytics.Itmaythusincludetracking andanalyzingtrendsincarbon emissions,therateofdeforestation,or evenprojectsontheimpactofdifferent climatepolicies.Thiscontext-based learningenhancesnotjustacademic skillsbutalsodeepensaspectsof environmentalissues.
Intheclassesonliteratureandhistory, sustainabilitycanbeviewedfromthe standpointofhumancultureandthe changingnatureofsociety.Insuch classes,studentswilllearnhowearlier civilizationswentabouttheirnatural resourcemanagementandhowthey failedtodoso-andcorrelateitwiththe currentenvironmentalissuesathand. Initiativeslikesuchtakestudentsintoa realizationthatenvironmental stewardshipdoesnotbelongtoone fieldofstudyalonebutencompasses everycategoryofknowledge.
Project-basedLearningfor EnvironmentalEngagement
VisionaryeducatorsembraceProjectbasedLearning(PBL)asaneffective wayofteachingenvironmental
stewardship.Project-basedlearning empowersthestudenttotakechargeof hislearningaspartofareal-world projectdirectedtowardsolving environmentalproblemsfittingintothe needsofhissociety Thismayrange fromdesigningacampus-wide recyclingprogram,developinga communitygarden,ordeveloping energy-savingsolutionsforbuilding designinthecommunity,amongmany otherthings.
Alltheaboveprojectsareopportunities forcriticalthinking,problem-solving andcollaborationandencourage studentstoapplytheiracademic knowledgemeaningfully.Suchwork makesstudentsseethetangible environmentalsolutionstheycanapply intheirlivesforthebettermentoftheir communitiesandtheplanetitself.
ThroughPBL,studentsfeelasenseof agency,showingthemthatsomething canactuallybedoneandthatthere'sno needtowaituntiladulthood.Instead, studentsremainself-driventhroughout theirlivesastheynurtureamindsetto dothingsdifferentlyforsustainability, curiouslyled,creativelyfueled,and committedtocommongoodforall.
OutdoorLearningandEcological Literacy
Outdoorslearningisanotherimportant approachthatvisionaryeducatorsare adoptingtopromoteenvironmental stewardship.Thisapproachbrings studentsoutoftheclassroomand learninginnature,creatingadirect connectionwiththeenvironment.A hands-onexperiencenurturesan understandingoftheecosystemsand howtheseinterconnectionsexistwith humans.
Programsthatincludeschoolgardens, naturehikesandenvironmentalfield tripshelpstudentsexperiencethe naturalworldandbringconcepts
likebiodiversity,conservationand climatechangetolife.Thisbuilds ecologicalliteracytoappreciatethe beautyandcomplexityofthenatural environmentwhilerecognizingthe humanroleinitsprotection.
CultivatingaCultureof Responsibility
Teachersarenolongerincluding environmentalstewardshipinjustthe academicsubjectsofthecurriculum rather,theyarenow,inaddition, teachingstudentsvaluesandaculture ofthelearningenvironment.Schools haveadoptedthegreenpolicyof minimizingwasteaswellasconserving energyandhaveoptedformore sustainablefoodchoicesinthe cafeteria.Thesemodelsactually exemplifyenvironmentalresponsibility tothestudentpopulation,teachingthem thatsustainabilityisnotonlysomething tolearnaboutbutalsosomethingto liveby.
And,indeed,teachersareencouraging studentstoengagethemselvesin community-wideactivitieson sustainabilitysuchastreeplanting, beachcleaningandprotectionadvocacy campaignsfortheenvironment.The actsdepictedaboveinstilknowledgein studentsthatitisapersonaldutyand responsibilitythatcallsforself-action plussystemic-levelintervention.
Conclusion:AFutureofSustainable Learning
Visionaryeducatorsaremakingit possibletoincludeenvironmental stewardshipwithinlearningbyusing sustainabilityincoresubjects,allowing project-basedlearning,providing outdoorexperiencesandfosteringa cultureofresponsibility
Aholisticapproachmakessurethat studentsunderstandmuchmorethan simplydiscussingenvironmentalissues butalsobecomeagentsofchange.
