National Level Five Days Faculty Development Program (FDP) on “Research Methodology, Intellectual Property Rights, and Quality Education and Assessment.”

Date: 24/7/2023 to 28/7/2023

Mode: Online (Zoom Platform)

The Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) and the Research and Innovation Cell of Universal Group of Institutions jointly organized a National Level Five Days Faculty Development Program (FDP) on “Research Methodology, Intellectual Property Rights, and Quality Education and Assessment.”

The FDP aimed to

• Enhance the professional development of faculty members and researchers,
• Foster a deeper understanding of intellectual property rights, research methodologies, and assessment practices, and
• Promote the use of digital initiatives in higher education.

The FDP was presided over by prominent personalities including Shri R Upendra Shetty, Dr. Saraswathi Kumbale, Dr. Shalini B, and Mr. J. Santhosh Shetty.

Day 1: Continuous Professional Development The FDP commenced with a session on “Continuous Professional Development” delivered by Dr. Susheel Ambal, the Director of the School of Education at Nrupathunga University. The session emphasized the significance of ongoing professional development in the academic domain. Dr. Ambal highlighted various approaches, strategies, and tools to facilitate continuous learning, staying updated with the latest developments, and improving teaching practices. Participants were introduced to various resources, workshops, and seminars that can aid in enhancing their teaching and research skills. The session encouraged the faculty members to adopt a growth mindset and embrace lifelong learning as an essential aspect of their professional journey.

Day 2: Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) The second day focused on “Intellectual Property Rights” and was conducted by Dr. Sai Ram Bhat, a renowned Professor of Law from the National Law School of India University. Dr. Bhat elucidated the significance of IPR in academia and the broader context. The session covered various forms of intellectual property, including copyrights, patents, trademarks, and trade secrets. Faculty members were educated on the importance of safeguarding their research outputs and innovations through appropriate IPR mechanisms. Additionally, the session addressed the ethical considerations and legal implications of intellectual property rights in the context of academic research and innovation.

Day 3: Research Methodology On the third day, Dr. Girija N Srinivasalu, Professor & Director (Retired), and a member of the NEP Steering Committee in Karnataka, conducted a comprehensive session on “Research Methodology.” The session aimed to equip the participants with essential research skills and techniques. Dr. Srinivasalu covered topics such as research design, data collection methods, data analysis, and interpretation of research findings. Participants were introduced to qualitative and quantitative research approaches and their applications in different academic disciplines. The session provided valuable insights into enhancing the quality and rigor of research work.

Day 4: Quality Education & Assessment Dr. G. Sheela, a Professor from Mysore University, conducted a session on “Quality Education & Assessment” on the fourth day of the FDP. The session emphasized the significance of quality assurance in higher education. Dr. Sheela highlighted the role of effective assessment practices in measuring student learning outcomes and improving the overall educational experience. The session also explored the concept of outcome-based education (OBE) and its implementation to ensure the delivery of quality education. Faculty members were encouraged to adopt innovative assessment methods that align with the desired learning outcomes.

Day 5: Digital Initiatives in Higher Education The final day of the FDP centered around “Digital Initiatives in Higher Education” and was facilitated by Dr. P.B. Kavya Kishore from the Research Center in Education at R.V. Teachers College IASE. Dr. Kavya Kishore discussed the transformative role of technology in higher education and its potential to enhance teaching, learning, and research activities. The session showcased various digital tools, online platforms, and learning management systems that can be effectively integrated into the educational process. Participants were encouraged to explore and implement digital initiatives to create an engaging and inclusive learning environment.

The National Level Five Days FDP on Research Methodology, Intellectual Property Rights, and Quality Education and Assessment organized by the Internal Quality Assurance Cell and Research and Innovation Cell successfully provided a platform for faculty members and researchers to enhance their professional skills and knowledge. The sessions delivered by experts in their respective domains enabled participants to gain valuable insights into research methodologies, intellectual property rights, quality education, and digital initiatives. The FDP played a pivotal role in fostering a culture of continuous learning, innovation, and quality assurance in higher education institutions. The knowledge and perspectives gained from this FDP are expected to contribute positively to the growth and development of faculty members and the academic community at large.