Faculty Duo Publish a Critical Analysis and Research on Cyberbullying
In the digital era, where technology dominates over communication, connection and social relationships, the staggering rise of cyberbullying proves to be detrimental to the social and mental psyche of people. The limited research present regarding the crisis fails to provide sufficient data to critically analyse and initiate policies to combat the same. In this regard, Dr Dhamodharan M and Dr Sunaina K, faculty from the Department of Psychology have conducted insightful research into cyberbullying, the role of technology and the challenges in tackling the act. The faculty duo has published a book chapter titled “Cyberbullying – A Disturbed Psyche and Digital Abuse in 21st Century” in the book In Analyzing New Forms of Social Disorders in Modern Virtual Environments in IGI Global Publishers (US).
Abstract
Cyberbullying is ‘a violent, planned act carried out by a group or specific, using electronic forms of communication, frequently and over time in contradiction of a victim who cannot easily protect him or herself.’ (Smith et al., 2008). According to the UNICEF and Broadband search survey 2023, around 36.5 out of a hundred people feel they were cyberbullied at least once in life, and seventeen percent of people experienced cyberbullying in the last month. 60 out of 100 adolescents experienced cyberbullying. Seventy percent of youths have reported perpetrators. Sixteen percent of women have been stalked at least once in life. 1 in 19 men have been stalked at some point. Fifty percent of LGBTQ people experience cyberbullying. Girls face cyberbullying more than boys. Around 36 percent of girls experience cyberbullying, whereas 24 percent of boys experience cyberbullying. Eighty-three percent of the victims who experienced online bullying also experienced physical bullying. Around 42 percent of the people experience cyberbullying on Instagram, followed by Facebook at 37%, Snapchat at 31%, WhatsApp at 12%, YouTube at 10%, and Twitter at 9%. Cyberbullying refers to using digital technologies such as cyberspace, societal broadcasting platforms, direct messaging, and email to bother, intimidate, or harm others.
This chapter provides an indication of cyberbullying, including its definition, incidence, and impact on individuals and society. Firstly, the chapter reviews the existing research on cyberbullying, exploring its different forms and characteristics and the psychological and social consequences for both victims and perpetrators. Secondly, the role of technology in facilitating and exacerbating cyberbullying is also examined, focusing on the anonymity and distance that online platforms provide. Thirdly, legal and ethical considerations surrounding cyberbullying including the challenges of enforcing laws and policies online are explored. Finally, the chapter highlights the importance of a comprehensive and collaborative approach involving parents, educators, policymakers, and online platforms to address cyberbullying.
Implications
Cyberbullying is a pervasive problem with significant and long-lasting consequences for people, their families, and society. It is essential to address cyberbullying thoroughly and implement effective prevention measures to create a more secure and respectful online environment. Cyberbullying can have detrimental effects on its victims, leading to feelings of helplessness, mental health issues, trouble with schoolwork, and even self-harm or suicide. In addition, cyberbullying affects the social fabric of groups, and trust, and impedes the proper growth of individuals, especially children and adolescents. Cyberbullying has a shocking prevalence worldwide, and it is spreading over to people silently. Traditional bullying differs from cyberbullying; it occurs to the victims in various forms and levels.
- Published in Departmental News, News, Psychology News, Research News
Professors Deliver a 3-Day Workshop at IARE on NEP Aligned Curricula
Dr Balaguruprasad Narayanan and Dr Anupama Ghattu, Associate Professors from the Teaching and Learning Centre, SRM University-AP delivered a 3-Day Outcome-Based Teaching & Learning Workshop on “Innovative Pedagogies and Assessment to Serve NEP Aligned Curricula” at the Institute of Aeronautical Engineering (IARE) on September 14-16, 2023. IARE located in Dundigal, Hyderabad is a prestigious autonomous college that offers various undergraduate and graduate programs with 23 years of rich experience in the higher education arena. The 3-day workshop was hosted with the objective of introducing active learning pedagogies and assessment strategies to the faculty of IARE that are engaging, student-centric and aligned with NEP.
The workshop included various sessions on Revisiting existing curriculum to align with the NEP and adopting effective learner-centred approaches to build on their learning; Demonstration of various active learning pedagogies to cater to the needs of the 21st-century learners and how to enhance their learning experience; and a session on the different assessment tools and evaluation techniques that provide an opportunity to assess the learner for further progress.
Dr Anupama addressed and demonstrated the active learning strategies that can be used in the classrooms to encourage student participation, promote higher-order thinking, and increase engagement and accountability of learning. Through her session, she illustrated the importance of assessment and how it must be mapped with the student learning activities to assess their learning and encourage them to work towards their aims. Dr Balaguruprasad discussed the NEP and its guidelines for higher education and how it is important to align the curriculum in line with NEP to facilitate classroom learning that instils 21st-century learning skills in students and how active learning strategies can enhance learning experiences.
- Published in Departmental News, News, TLC
An Enriching Session on Cracking Job Interviews
The Paari School of Business successfully concluded its session on career development. Mr. Suresh S, a seasoned HR professional with years of experience, engaged students with informative segments on career planning, acing job interviews, and enhancing communication skills.
During the career planning segment, attendees were reminded of the critical importance of completing their courses and were enlightened about the more rigorous elimination processes often found in larger companies. The seminar emphasised the need for clarity in one’s career goals, whether it involves pursuing higher studies, venturing into entrepreneurship, or exploring international opportunities. The resounding message was to “dream big” and strive for ambitious career aspirations.
The interview segment of the seminar provided illuminating insights into the rapid evaluation process that candidates face during job interviews. The seminar also delved into Maslow’s Theory of Management, emphasising the significance of mastering the fundamental principles. A major takeaway from the event was the emphasis on merit over recommendations, highlighting the importance of proving one’s capabilities through skills and qualifications.
The seminar also equipped attendees with practical tips for interview success. These included guidance on dressing appropriately, avoiding squeaky shoes, mastering the art of tying ties, punctuality, and conducting thorough research about the prospective employer. Participants were encouraged to create clear and concise resumes, carry extra copies of their resumes and testimonials, and ensure that their references were in order. The event underscored that the first impression often leaves a lasting mark, making preparation and presentation crucial.
Effective communication skills were another key focal point, with an emphasis on articulating strengths and weaknesses concisely and convincingly. The seminar was a comprehensive guide for attendees, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complex job market successfully.
- Published in Departmental News, News, Paari Current Happenings
Robotrix: A Stepping Stone in the Field of Robotics
IndustreeOwl and Home of Leaders, Directorate of Entrepreneurship and Innovation conducted a 2-day experiential Hands-on workshop on Robotics named ROBOTRIX on September 05 and 06, 2023, in collaboration with OSSEB, a Hyderabad-based company focused on providing students with relevant skillset according to industry demands. The workshop witnessed the presence of Mr Mohammad Abdul Khayyum, Chief Executive Officer of OSSEB, and Mr Ashish Kumar, who assumed the role of mentor for the two-day event. The guest mentors attended the workshop on behalf of OSSEB, signifying their active engagement and commitment to the workshop’s primary objective to provide students with essential knowledge as a crucial stepping stone for their future endeavours.
The workshop was conducted on the topic “Hands-on Experience on Android Controlled Robotics and Bluetooth Communications”. Students were encouraged to develop their own robots that could be controlled via their Android Phone’s Bluetooth. 139 students registered for the workshop out of which 122 people attended the 2-Day hands-on workshop with many participants registering on-spot. The students were eager to participate and learn about Robotics. Out of 122, almost 50 per cent of the participants were from the NRI Institute of Technology, Vijayawada.
The Workshop also included sessions on the basics of electronics and robotics where students were made to understand the concepts like Flow of Current in a battery, Motors, etc. along with the laws of Robotics and their applications. Insight into how, in the near future Robotics will ally with Artificial Intelligence to give a new shape to the world, was also discussed. This was followed by a session on hands-on activities where participants were formally instructed in the intricacies of programming the robot to facilitate its operational functionality and how to connect to the Robot with the help of the kit provided by OSSEB with their Code.
An Eminent Guest lecture featuring Shri J A Chowdhury, former ISRO scientist, Technological Leader and innovator who has been contributing to the development of the Indian IT industry for more than 35 years was conducted on the grand occasion of Teacher’s Day. He shared his professional experience including his understanding of Robotics and how it will be pivotal in shaping the future. Shri J A Chowdhury along with Mr Udayan Bakshi, Associate Director and Mr Sundhar Singh, Manager-Outreach, Directorate of Entrepreneurship & Innovation inaugurated the Robotrix poster symbolising this momentous Workshop.
A Presentation Competition was spontaneously conducted by the IndustreeOwl team aimed at actively involving the students and fostering their practical application of the newly acquired knowledge. Pallavi Madala and Fadzai Ethel Muchina from SRM University-AP secured the first and second prize respectively.
The second day saw a continuation of hands-on training where participants were taught to develop the code for controlling the movement of the Robot. They were also taught about Bluetooth Communications and were urged to install an application in their phone which will be pivotal in controlling the Robot. The session was followed by a Quiz Competition that saw the participation of more than 100 students. Yaswanth Dhulipalla from SRM University-AP bagged the first prize, whereas Saikeerthi Aluri and Punuru Varsha Reddy from SRM University-AP won the second and third prizes respectively.
The event successfully concluded with a speech and vote of thanks by Mr Udayan Bakshi where he urged the students to continue moving forward in their Robotics journey with the help of the kits and the mentors from OSSEB. He also felicitated the guests and mentors from OSSEB and the team of IndustreeOwl for the smooth conduction of the Workshop.
The workshop has not only met but exceeded its objective of imparting students with a foundational understanding of Robots and Robot Design. This newly acquired knowledge will undoubtedly serve as a solid stepping stone for them in their future endeavours, equipping them with valuable skills and insights that will open up exciting opportunities and possibilities in the world of robotics and design.
- Published in Departmental News, IDEA NEWS, IDEA Workshop, News, Workshop