Tiss scores on the accreditation front

The Tata Institute of Social Sciences (Tiss) has added another feather to its cap. As part of the process of re-accrediting Tiss by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (Naac), the institute has secured one of the highest scores — 3.88 (out of four) — among the universities and colleges accredited till January this year.

“The accreditation takes into account parameters like quality of teaching, research quality and output, infrastructure, outreach support and interface with government and non-governmental organisations, international linkages and collaborations,” said professor S Parasuraman, Tiss director.

The institute is working towards its mandate of excellence in teaching and research relevant to the society. “Our teaching, research, and training at Tiss is aimed at contributing to the transformation of people’s lives and ensuring that human rights and dignity is secured,” he said.

Tiss, which has been restructuring its academic and administrative processes, is now reviewing its examination system. Major infrastructure developments include library and faculty buildings and a 250-seat students’ hostel.

The institute’s progress can be attributed to a well-defined teaching programme which looks at all aspects of learning.

“We give a lot of importance to the students' life on campus and extra-curricular activities,” he said. “We have a students' union and students are represented in scholarships, gender amity and SC/ST welfare committees. We are also debating whether they can be included in our academic council.”

Another major focus area is the nature of accountability of the faculty. Each member is involved in teaching, research and publication every year; subject to self-assessment and evaluation by the students.

The assessment output enables reworking curriculum, reading and learning outcomes. Prior to graduation, each course is reviewed. The overall feedback is sent to the faculty.

“This unique aspect of student feedback was there when I joined Tiss as a teacher in 1981 and it has stayed that way,” said Parasuraman.