Balancing Technology-Driven Teaching with Traditional Learning

Saikat Barua, Lecturer, Arden University

Saikat Barua, Lecturer at Arden University, specializes in delivering engaging, studentfocused learning experiences. With expertise in business and management education, he emphasizes practical applications, critical thinking, and professional growth. Dedicated to academic excellence, he guides diverse learners in achieving their goals while fostering innovation, collaboration, and real-world problem-solving skills.

A Journey of Growth and Purpose

In 2022, I worked in an FE (Further Education) college for few months where I was teaching students with Special Educational Needs (SEN). It was indeed challenging as I did not have prior experience of teaching as such however the institution was helpful and provided all the required trainings. That role taught me that we can truly make a difference in someone’s live if we really want to. My students were so appreciative despite their daily challenges and that 6 months of experience decided my future career if I be honest. However, my ambition was to work in university setting, but I did lack experience. Few months later, I landed my first job in Higher Educational Institution (HEI) in a private college which was partnering with two established universities. Teaching multiple business modules and later leading two of them, I gathered so much knowledge about the Higher Education (HE) realms. Almost a year later, I became a Fellow of Higher Education Academy. While I did receive offer for higher position in that college, but my ambition was bigger. An ex-colleague of mine forwarded me the job advert of Arden University position on LinkedIn. On the same evening, I applied for the role and after multiple interviews, I took the position and this coming October, I will be celebrating my first year at Arden. It has been nothing but amazing journey so far (touch wood) and long may it continue.

Harnessing Digital Tools to Foster Meaningful Learning Experiences

My first approach I would say is start with simplicity. Majority of my students are mature learners and returning to study after a long gap in their lives. Some of them do not even have any idea about these modern digital tools and platforms therefore it is imperative to start with basic and then move up the gears. Secondly, not to judge if they make mistakes or progress slow.

Being empathetic and emotionally intelligent help to inspire the learners to be persistent with these tools and have a positive learning experience and not giving up.

“Do not underestimate the power of simplicity”

According to my students, they find it easier when I break down the theories with real life examples. Besides, I encourage an environment of discussion in the classroom, and this includes role model teaching by other students. This enables to learn from their peers too.

The beauty of technology is that not everyone learns at the same speed therefore, I allow my learners to make mistakes, give them time to adjust. Once they are hooked at the basics and find it engaging, the rests usually fall in place. Moreover, inclusion is important hence I do not move on to the next level until everyone confirms their understanding because it is pivotal to consider their feedback.

Designing curricula resonating with varied cultural and educational backgrounds

At Arden, we have students from various demographics hence first few weeks of a semester I spend ample amount of time on having a strong rapport with my students such as getting to know where they are from, their cultures, their jobs, their previous educational gain etc. I do not hesitate to tell them my own journey of being an international student in the UK as well. Once I understand my students, it becomes easier to design curricula where they can find themselves. For example, in every session we usually do two in-class activities which are related to their lives i.e. real world.