Digital Skills Training: Empowering Students Through Practical Learning

Marian College Kuttikkanam Autonomous recently organized a Digital Skills Training Programme for students of the MDC (Multidisciplinary Course), with an aim to strengthen their practical digital competencies and familiarize them with tools that are increasingly essential in academic and professional environments.

The training programme was conducted by II MCA students, who took the initiative to share their knowledge and practical experience with their peers. The programme featured three interactive sessions, each focusing on a different digital skill.

Session 1: Introduction to Google Sheets

The first session introduced students to Google Sheets, a widely used cloud-based spreadsheet application. Renjitha V R and Annie Joben handled the session and demonstrated essential features such as creating and organizing spreadsheets, entering and managing data, using formulas, and collaborating through online documents. The session helped participants understand how spreadsheet tools can be effectively used for academic activities and everyday data management.

Session 2: Introduction to AI Tools and Prompt Engineering

The second session focused on the rapidly evolving field of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Binitta Saji and Ann Mary Roy introduced students to various AI tools and explained the fundamentals of prompt engineering. Students were introduced to effective ways of communicating with AI tools through well-structured prompts and explored how AI can support learning, content creation, research, and productivity.

The session also highlighted the importance of using AI responsibly and effectively, encouraging students to view AI as a tool for enhancing their capabilities and not merely as a source of ready-made answers.

Session 3: Poster Designing and Design Tools

The third session focused on poster designing and digital design tools, conducted by Vivek Menon. Students were introduced to the fundamentals of creating visually appealing digital content and learned how design tools can be used to communicate ideas effectively. The practical orientation of the session enabled participants to explore elements such as layout, typography, images, and visual presentation.

Building Digital Confidence

The three-session programme provided students with exposure to some of the digital tools they encounter in their everyday academic and personal activities. From data management and collaboration through Google Sheets, to AI-assisted productivity and prompt engineering, and finally creative communication through digital design, the programme covered a diverse range of relevant skills.

The initiative by the II MCA students demonstrates the value of peer learning, where students not only develop their own expertise but also contribute to the digital literacy of the wider student community.

Through such initiatives, Marian College Kuttikkanam Autonomous continues to encourage students to develop practical, technology-oriented skills that complement their academic learning and prepare them for the demands of the digital world.