Experiential learning, in simple terms, is defined as learning by doing. It involves hands-on experience, mapping theory to practice and connecting classroom learning to real-world scenarios.
Experiential learning is built-in, to some extent in science and engineering courses & engineering programs, and can be achieved through lab and practical sessions. But in social sciences, introducing experiential learning comes with huge challenges. The educationists and academicians have been seized with this challenge over the years and have identified numerous avenues to make classroom learning experiential, especially in the area of management.
CMR University School of Management has taken up several initiatives to make management learning more experiential for CMRU graduates. To be successful in their corporate careers, management graduates are expected to have two key skills:
- Domain specific expertise (say Marketing, HR, Finance, Analytics etc.) and
- Behavioural skills (Communication, interpersonal skills, creativity, decision making, problem solving, leadership skills etc.)
CMRU initiatives that incorporate experiential learning in gaining domain specific expertise:
- Learning through case studies
- Applied learning through management simulations
- Industry-led Practice labs that facilitate live projects through Schools of Excellence in the areas of Marketing, HR, Finance, Business Analytics, Innovation and Entrepreneurship etc.
- Capstone projects
- Internship projects
- Guest lectures by industry leaders
- Interactions with CXOs
- Courses delivered predominantly by expert faculty with vast industry experience
CMRU initiatives that incorporate experiential learning in gaining strong behavioural/ leadership skills:
- Community service
- Community internship program
- Multiple club activities – culture, debates, performing arts etc.
- Student Councils and Committees
- CMRU Ambassador program
- Workshops on knowing self and community
- Sports and athletics
- Faculty chats
With students actively participating in the above activities, CMRU graduates will possess:
- A better understanding of concepts and its applications in real life and corporate career
- Deep insights into their own skills and interests
- A broader view of the world and sensitization to the community
- Skills to collaborate with people and work in a dynamic world
- Ability to seamlessly transition from campus life to corporate careers and
- Self-confidence and leadership skills
