KIET: View of an Outsider Transitioning In Hasan A. Rizvi October 12, 2011

Two Views: ‘Participant Observation’ 1.KIET as a generic institution 2.KIET as an educational institution of higher learning in technology, business and media

Initial Holistic Impression KIET, overall, is a healthy institution, still in its growth phase and future-centric to a great degree Processes are fairly well defined but traditions have not set in Traditions that create belongingness and pride Striving hard for recognition and distinction among its peers

Culture and Environment – People generally are polite and helpful – Teachers are sufficiently empowered – Students are: disciplined and well behaved Don’t suffer from a high sense of ‘entitlement’ Are made to work hard But lack spark and enthusiasm Aspirations are not high Initiative, drive and energy below par – Barring a few exceptions, lecture rooms are well equipped and have adequate space

Some Novel Mechanisms Mentoring sessions Peer review at various levels and stages A great focus on practical, project-based learning Faculty meetings with a difference

Some Issues Lack of orientation for the new faculty members Cynicism about the main objective of the mentoring sessions Lack of interaction/synergy between different faculties Lack of time for teacher-student interaction outside the class room Form over content