As part of the Environmental Studies (EVS) curriculum, the students of II BA English undertook an educational field trip to Kalaignar Centenary Park, Chennai, on 8th February 2025. The trip, held from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., was designed to offer students experiential learning through direct engagement with nature and to connect theoretical environmental concepts with practical observation. A total of 22 students participated, accompanied by the course instructor and the class teacher. The activity was conducted in alignment with participative and experiential learning methodologies.
The primary objective of the field trip was to develop students’ understanding of the ecological and social importance of urban green spaces, foster observation and reporting skills, and encourage inquiry-based learning. The visit provided an opportunity to explore plant diversity, study species adaptations, and appreciate the role of biodiversity in sustaining ecological balance.
Upon arrival, students toured the park’s major attractions, beginning with the Glass House, which displayed an impressive collection of plant species. The arrangement of terrariums and cacti collections provided valuable insight into various plant adaptations and ecological functions. This section vividly demonstrated the link between classroom concepts and living examples of biodiversity and sustainability.
Students then visited the Aviary House, where they observed numerous bird species in a semi-natural habitat. This experience broadened their understanding of avian biodiversity and highlighted the interdependence between flora and fauna within ecosystems.
A distinctive feature of the park was its QR-coded informational system placed alongside different plant species. By scanning these codes, students accessed detailed descriptions of the flora, learning about their uses, adaptations, and ecological significance. This integration of digital technology with environmental education made the experience more engaging and interactive.
The visit concluded with a walk through the misty pathway and arch section of the park, leading to the scenic waterfall, where students paused to reflect on the aesthetic and environmental value of conserving nature within urban settings. The tranquil surroundings offered a space for contemplation on the significance of sustainability and environmental stewardship.
The undergraduate students of the Postgraduate Department of English undertook an educational trip to The Hindu Archival Photo Exhibition on 23 August 2024. The exhibition, titled “Nagarum Nam Nagaram” (Our Changing City: A Journey Through Time), presented a rich collection of rare photographs capturing the multifaceted dimensions of Indian history, art, and culture.
The visit served as an experiential learning opportunity that enabled students to engage meaningfully with the visual narratives depicting the transformation of Madras over time. Through the photographic documentation, students developed a deeper understanding of the city’s historical evolution, its architectural heritage, and its cultural identity. The exhibition illuminated how Chennai has grown while retaining its deep-rooted traditions, allowing students to appreciate the interplay between memory, modernity, and heritage.
This academic engagement cultivated an awareness of the importance of preserving cultural and historical landmarks. It also emphasised the significance of archives in safeguarding collective memory and shaping civic consciousness. Overall, the experience broadened the students’ perspectives, enriching their appreciation of Chennai’s heritage and reinforcing the relevance of historical documentation in understanding contemporary urban life.
