Field Studies - An Impactful Learning Approach at JAIN College

A humanities programme cannot limit itself to conventional fields such as history, sociology, psychology, literature, language and so forth. Ideally, a well-designed humanities programme includes all the aspects that are significant to humanity as a whole. Such a programme allows a holistic exploration of questions that may remain unaddressed in other disciplines due to their specific focus and limitations. Whether it's examining how ChatGPT affects global employment and resulting social changes, discussing the existence of diverse societies, or addressing concerns about economic growth leading to inequality, JAIN College's humanities programme covers a wide range of thought-provoking topics.

At JAIN College, the humanities department goes beyond the basics and incorporates broader societal issues into the curriculum. This approach is not only intellectually enriching but also a practical requirement in the increasingly competitive landscape of undergraduate programmes. Field studies, comprising field visits and fieldwork, restore the rightful context of humanities education. Fieldwork, as a research method, aligns with the practice of fostering authenticity and practicality in academic programmes. It involves bringing theory into actual practice - known as ‘praxis’. The programme brings the attention of the students to the context of different theories included as part of their curriculum. In many advanced educational programmes, a common practice is to blend classroom discussions with hands-on fieldwork experiences. At JAIN College, the humanities department embraces this practice of fieldwork that incorporates practical experiences into the learning process.

In the pre-university curriculum, various curricular aspects such as behavioural sciences, socialisation, institutional functioning, and the economics of a welfare society are explored through field visits. For instance, during visits to children-rescue homes, the students gained insights into why children exhibit specific behaviour, the importance of social institutions in their assimilation into society, the challenges executives face in such institutions, and how literary works provided historical context to the same. Such field visits and fieldwork bring learning closer to real-life experiences, making it more authentic and meaningful.

Another instance that substantiates the above discussion is the field study on the concept of ‘hunger’. This was a field study-based inquiry activity for the students. This activity involved surveying commercial establishments, and tracing the sociological foundations of food habits to create a comprehensive understanding of 'hunger'. This activity allowed the students to explore the multifaceted aspects of hunger, including its social, economic, and cultural dimensions. They were able to examine the factors contributing to hunger, the impact on individuals and communities, and potential solutions to address this pressing issue. This was a part of the compelling concept in economics which is not just limited to the field but extends beyond and resonates with the everyday realities of people's lives.

In a nutshell, knowledge, and social issues, can never be studied in isolation. Social issues are never disconnected, static or independent. They constantly interact with each other. This provides opportunities for students to apply knowledge and also adapt to the circumstances that surround them.

The tradition of fieldwork is part of the holistic learning experience in the Department of Humanities at JAIN College that fosters critical thinking, problem-solving skills and empathy by engaging students in real-world challenges and complexities.