Although the university may be closed for now due to the COVID-19 pandemic, dedicated staff of the university are making sure that knowledge sharing is continued. Various online platforms are utilized to ensure proactive learning. For instance, Zoom, a popular synchronous or real-time web collaboration platform is used by Dr. Puvaneswaran to engage and interact with his post-graduate students of PhD programme, School of Hospitality, Tourism and Events, Faculty of Social Sciences and Leisure Management, Taylor’s University. 

Students were comfortable to communicate with their supervisor virtually. They commented that the learning was excellent as they were able to interact with their friends and supervisor in real time. One of the PhD students, Mr. Munileswar Rajoo, enjoyed his Zoom session with his supervisor and other classmates. 

“I am a PhD student in my first semester this April 2020. COVID-19 has created a lot of problems for me. However, I have already started online learning and had several sessions with my supervisor. I have also presented my problem statement. My supervisor invited his other PhD students to join the Zoom session for feedback and academic discourse. So, I don’t see any issues to actively pursue my research and writing.”

Another student, Mr. Wang Mingzhuo, was delighted to share his experience completing his Proposal Defense online during his self-quarantine period in Shanghai, China.

“On 1st April 2020, I presented my proposal during my 14-day quarantine period in Shanghai. Taylor’s University provided tremendous support for me during this difficult period of time. After successfully defending my proposal, I am now very motivated to do my data collection. COVID-19 cannot stop my progress.”

These scenarios show that usage of appropriate technologies can ensure lessons are smooth sailing during this difficult period of a global pandemic.  Moving forward, Dr. Puvaneswaran is also planning to organize virtual academic debates among the postgraduate students towards self-directed critical learning.