ROLE OF INDUSTRIAL VISITS IN ENHANCING LEARNING QUALITY OF COMMERCE AND BUSINESS STUDENTS

Abstract

In the context of higher education, particularly for students in commerce and business disciplines, the significance of industrial visits is increasingly recognized as crucial for bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge obtained in classrooms and practical industry requirements. Industrial visits provide students with invaluable opportunities to gain firsthand experience of real-world work environments, understand industry practices, and witness how theoretical concepts are applied in practice. This exposure is instrumental in preparing students to meet the demands and challenges of their future careers effectively.

Traditionally, industrial visits have been extensively integrated into science and engineering education, where they are acknowledged as essential for students to grasp the practical aspects of their fields. However, their role and importance in commerce and business education have not been as widely established. This paper addresses this gap by focusing on students pursuing B. Com (Hons) and BBA degrees at Delhi School of Professional Studies and Research, IP University. The study aims to ascertain how industrial visits contribute to enhancing students' knowledge and understanding beyond what is taught in classrooms.

The findings of the survey conducted among these students reveal several key insights:

1. **Acknowledgment of Importance**: Students recognize and appreciate the role of industrial visits in providing them with practical exposure and real-life industry experience. They perceive this experience as complementing and enhancing the theoretical knowledge acquired in classrooms.
2. **Impact and Longevity of Learning**: Students believe that the learning obtained through industrial visits has a lasting impact. It not only enhances their understanding of subject matter but also prepares them more effectively for future professional roles.
3. **Comparative Effectiveness**: There is a consensus among students that industrial visits are more effective in facilitating practical learning compared to traditional classroom teaching methods alone. This highlights the supplementary role that practical exposure plays in enriching the overall educational experience.
4. **Educational Relevance**: The study successfully establishes the significance of industrial visits specifically for commerce and business students. It underscores the need for incorporating such experiential learning opportunities into the curriculum to align educational practices with industry demands effectively.

In conclusion, the paper advocates for the integration of industrial visits as a critical component of higher education for commerce and business students. By providing them with practical insights and real-world experiences, industrial visits not only enrich their learning but also equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in their chosen fields. This research contributes to bridging the gap between academic knowledge and practical application, thereby enhancing the overall quality and relevance of education in preparing students for their professional careers.