Introduction:
Recently, I interacted with BMS FY students in a unique and engaging way. Unlike a typical classroom interaction, this activity involved students presenting the Interim Budget 2024 to their peers at NSBT, faculty members, and industry experts.
Challenge 1:
At the beginning of the activity, I noticed a negative approach among the students. Some expressed reluctance and questioned the necessity of the presentation. I identified two primary challenges:
a. Fear of Public Speaking: Many students exhibited apprehension about presenting in front of an audience.
b. Self-Defeating Behaviour and Lack of Interest: Some students displayed a self-defeating attitude and a lack of interest in the activity.
Encouraging Participation:
To address these challenges, I employed a two-pronged approach:
1. Individual Encouragement: I began by encouraging students to participate individually. While some responded positively, others remained hesitant.
2. Firm Direction: Recognizing the need for a more decisive approach, I firmly informed the students that participation was mandatory and that there were no alternatives.
Topic Distribution and Preparation:
Subsequently, I distributed topics among the 19 students, and they commenced their preparations for the presentation.
Challenge 2: Collection of Data
Addressing the issue: I assisted them in preparing the presentation and their respective slides on a one-on-one basis. I ensured they understood that I was available to help them not only on campus but also after their classes. I spoke to them individually on phone calls and maintained contact with them even after class hours whenever required. Through these efforts, they began to feel that I was a part of the team and actively started sharing data and searching for various information, facts, and figures.
Being readily available to address their concerns motivated them to work harder.
Challenge 3: Understanding Budget and Respective Topics
Steps taken: I endeavoured to help them comprehend the meanings of unfamiliar words or schemes. I shared slides, images, and YouTube videos with them to provide clarity on the topics.
Challenge 4: Quitting Team Members
Students started quitting again and had to pull them back through encouraging words, being strict and so on. Special Thanks to Prof. Dhananjay Singh and Director Harsh Vardhan Jajoo for always being there for numerous rehearsals, correcting students and improving their presentation skills.
Finally, on 1st March 2024, 14 students presented the Interim Budget 2024 and they did it very confidently. On the day, students were extremely excited and enthused to present the Budget. They are now ready to allow themselves to present more such topics with full gusto.
Throughout the entire process, this was an opportunity for me to become better acquainted with the students. The more you understand your students, the greater the impact you can have on their lives. As a dedicated educator, I strive to deepen my understanding of my students each day.
NSBT provides such platforms which are opportunities for faculty and students to connect deeply with one another and live the vision of interweaving industry and academia.
I feel lucky to be a part of such a team which is actively being the change.
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