Unveiling the Role of Professor of Practice in Higher Education: Navigating Challenges and Embracing Guidelines
The landscape of higher education is undergoing a transformative shift, emphasising skill-based learning to meet the evolving needs of students. Recognizing this, the latest UGC guidelines have introduced the innovative role of ‘Professor of Practice’ for colleges and universities. This new role enhances real-world learning programs, ensuring academic institutions remain dynamic and relevant in the educational sector.
Institute of Academic Excellence (IAE) is at the forefront of aiding colleges in overcoming the challenges associated with these appointments. We provide essential guidelines to facilitate the positive engagement of Professors of Practice.
Discover the transformative potential of this trending initiative by incorporating it into your academic institute. Elevate the standards of vocational education, focusing on business expertise and professional goals for students.
The Importance of the Professor of Practice Role in Higher Education
UGC encourages colleges and universities to enlist experts from diverse fields, including Science, Administration, Media & PR, Management, Engineering, Technology, Literature, Chartered Accountancy, Entrepreneurs, and Social Media. The active participation of these professionals is crucial in designing courses, providing lecture material, and offering a real-world perspective to students.
Role in active participation: Professors of Practice extend beyond classrooms to conduct seminars, workshops, training sessions, special lectures, and collaborative research projects. Their appointment typically spans three years, with at least one entire academic year mandated by UGC guidelines.
Advantages of Hiring Industry Experts
Engaging Professors of Practice brings tangible benefits to academic institutions. These individuals are not only educators but also industry specialists with practical experience. Bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and industry requirements, they infuse courses with a practical approach aligned with societal and business needs.
Currently, there is a significant disparity between students’ academic learning and the demands of the job market. Professors of Practice, through research, training experiments, and other innovative learning processes, play a pivotal role in preparing students for the professional world.
Nominations and Invitations for Appointments
Vice-chancellors or directors hold the authority to invite nominations for industry leaders to assume the role of Professor of Practice. Subject matter experts can submit nominations accompanied by profiles and course design approaches. A selection committee, comprising a senior professor from a higher education institute and an external member, evaluates the recommendations. Final appointments are made by the academic council and statutory bodies.
IAE offers consultancy to address queries related to Professor of Practice appointments. Whether it pertains to concerns about impacting existing faculty positions or navigating the challenges unique to being a Professor of Practice, we are here to guide you. Connect with us for a comprehensive discussion with a prior appointment.