An enriching experience

The Viksit Bharat National study tour programme was organised by College of Education M.A Road Srinagar.  The study tours provide experiential learning in real-life situations.

National study tours provide students with the opportunity to enjoy cultural learning, observe the operations of  academic excellence of reputed institutions, enrich their learning skills and exploration characteristics, expand their horizons, and learn about the work practices of national institutions.

The study tours integrate the notion of peer-to-peer learning and adult learning, and they are an effective means of educational development for both knowledge seekers and providers. They facilitate a transformative experience that can improve participants’ intellectual competence and personal lives. Through study tour programmes, higher education institutions exhibit their commitment to the National experience and flexible delivery.

Study tour under the banner of Vikshit Bharat@2047 was programmed with different learning activities, which was   formal, non-formal, or informal in nature. These three types of learning activities differ in terms of what they entail, students’ motivation and interest, the social context, and the assessment methods.

Formal learning activities usually constitute the core activities of study tour. Lectures, class activities, and assignments were typical examples of formal learning activities. They were undertaken on campus, where the learning environment was  pre-arranged. Students’ motivation is typically extrinsic.

Prof Dr Seema Naaz Principal College of Education (IASE) managed learning and assessment activities in the Panjab university.  These activities were  well structured and well planned. Non-formal learning activities often include business visits, social activities, and local tours. They were  structured and planned by tour coordinator Prof Dr Aijaz (IASE)  with students’ involvement.

Assessments was also  included, pre-arranged and occur off campus, and  the atmosphere at Panjab university  was relaxing and supportive. As such, students are typically more intrinsically motivated to join these activities. Informal learning activities normally involve intimate gatherings, chit chat, and casual conservations during the journey, occurring anytime and anywhere. Students volunteer to join these activities, and so their intrinsic motivation played a significant role in pursuing informal learning.

These learning activities are spontaneous, unstructured, and led by the students themselves.  The environment was supportive, relaxed, and full of enjoyment, as students usually feel happy to take part in these activities.

Our visit to Panjab University provided us with a glimpse into the rich tapestry of academic pursuits and cultural heritage that define this institution. As we departed, inspired by the spirit of inquiry and innovation, we carried with us memories of an enriching experience that will resonate with us for years to come and  reinforce students’ knowledge, facilitate cultural learning, and improve their transferable skills.

SHEIKH MAQBOOL, Research student at  IASE.