Orientation Session for MA in English with Digital Humanities

The Department of Languages at CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Pune Lavasa Campus, organized an Orientation Session for MA in English with Digital Humanities (MA EDH) students on 6th January 2025 at 2:00 PM. The session was held in the Smart Room, MBA Block, and aimed at introducing students to the curriculum, objectives, and expectations of the even semester courses. It marked an essential beginning to the academic semester, providing students with a structured roadmap to navigate their coursework and research activities effectively.

The orientation served as a platform for students to engage with faculty members, gain insights into course structures, and understand their academic trajectory. The event featured distinguished faculty from the Department of Languages, including Dr. Jibreal Jos, Associate Dean; Dr. Richa Srishti, Head of the Department; Mr. Aaron George; and Mr. John Steward Raj J. They guided students through the academic framework, assessment criteria, and learning resources available, ensuring they were well-equipped to start the semester with clarity.

The session commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Richa Srishti, who emphasized the significance of the MA EDH program in integrating literature, technology, and digital media. She outlined the department’s vision for fostering interdisciplinary learning and preparing students for research and professional careers. Dr. Srishti highlighted the growing relevance of digital humanities and encouraged students to explore its dynamic intersections with literature and technology. Her address underscored the department’s commitment to academic excellence.

Following this, Dr. Jibreal Jos reinforced the university’s dedication to innovation in education. He spoke about the importance of engaging with emerging technologies in humanities research and encouraged students to actively participate in discussions, research activities, and collaborative projects. He urged students to think critically about how digital tools can enhance literary and linguistic studies, providing them with a broader perspective on the field.

Mr. Aaron George provided an overview of the course content, detailing methodologies and tools used in various subjects. He introduced key themes such as digital textual analysis, computational approaches to literature, and the practical application of technology in humanities research. He also elaborated on assessment patterns, project work, and extracurricular opportunities designed to enhance students’ learning experiences and skills.

Mr. John Steward Raj J contributed by offering guidance on motivation and goal setting. He encouraged students to adopt a disciplined and proactive approach to their studies while balancing academic responsibilities and personal growth. His talk focused on strategies for effective time management, developing research skills, and fostering creativity in digital humanities projects. His words inspired students to set clear academic and career goals.

Throughout the session, students actively engaged with faculty, asking questions and seeking clarification on various aspects of the program. The orientation provided a space for meaningful dialogue, where students could voice aspirations and concerns while receiving valuable insights. The event concluded with a dynamic Q&A session, where faculty addressed students’ queries and offered personalized guidance.

Overall, the orientation session provided a comprehensive introduction to the MA EDH program, setting the stage for a productive and engaging semester. The event successfully established a strong academic foundation, ensuring students were well-prepared to navigate coursework, research projects, and professional aspirations in digital humanities. By fostering an environment of learning, collaboration, and innovation, the Department of Languages reaffirmed its commitment to shaping the next generation of scholars and professionals in the interdisciplinary domain of English and digital humanities.