One-Day Workshop on Smart Assessments with the OBE Approach: Viswajyothi College of Engineering and Technology, Vazhakulam

One-Day Workshop on Smart Assessments with the OBE Approach: Viswajyothi College of Engineering and Technology, Vazhakulam

A one-day workshop on Smart Assessments with the OBE Approach was successfully conducted at Viswajyothi College of Engineering and Technology (Autonomous) on 29th July 2025. The institution, managed by the Eparchy of Kothamangalam, hosted this academic event as part of its continued commitment to enhancing educational quality through innovative practices.

Organized in association with ipsr solutions limited, the workshop served as a dedicated platform to explore effective and practical strategies in Outcome-Based Education (OBE). The primary focus was on integrating smart assessment methodologies that strengthen academic effectiveness and institutional outcomes.

Inaugural Session and Dignitaries Present:

The workshop was graced by the esteemed presence of Dr. K.K. Rajan, Principal of Viswajyothi College, whose leadership has played a vital role in academic advancements within the institution. The formal welcome address was delivered by Mr. Somy P Mathew, Vice-Principal and Controller of Examinations, who outlined the workshop’s relevance in the current educational context. Dr. Shine George, Director of the Autonomous Committee, proposed the vote of thanks, acknowledging the contribution of all stakeholders who made the workshop a grand success.

Expert-Led Sessions with Strategic Focus:

The workshop was led by Dr. Mendus Jacob, M.D. & CEO of ipsr solutions limited; Director of Valin Technologies (UK, USA & Canada); and Professor & Director of MCA at Marian College Kuttikkanam (Autonomous). He was joined by Mr. Nibin Sunny, Sr. Manager – Academic Solutions & Infrastructure Management, who handled the afternoon hands-on training. The sessions were also supported by Mr. Jaimon Kuriakose, Sr. Manager – Training & Corporate Services, and Mr. Benny John Joseph, Manager – Business Administration, ensuring a smooth learning experience for all participants.

Forenoon Session: Academic Frameworks and Technological Tools:

The morning session, conducted by Dr. Mendus Jacob, provided an insightful deep dive into three crucial areas for academic development—OBE Strategies, Precise Exam Design, and a comprehensive overview of QnSmart i and questionpaper.ai.

OBE Strategies:

The session began with a thorough exploration of OBE principles, emphasizing a learner-centric model that aligns curriculum delivery, learning outcomes, and assessment. Dr. Mendus illustrated the process of formulating Course Outcomes (COs) and Program Outcomes (POs), with practical guidance on effective mapping and measurement techniques. Educators were also equipped to overcome challenges typically faced during OBE implementation, making the shift towards a structured and outcome-aligned academic approach.

Precise Exam Design:

Next, the focus shifted to the strategic construction of examinations. Dr. Mendus detailed how assessments should be mapped to learning outcomes and Bloom’s Taxonomy levels, ensuring validity, reliability, and a comprehensive coverage of cognitive domains. The session empowered faculty to design purposeful, balanced exams that truly reflect student understanding and performance.

Introduction to QnSmart i and questionpaper.ai:

The technological highlight of the session was the introduction of QnSmart i, a smart question bank and question paper generation software created by academicians for academicians. The software offers extensive features such as:

• CO mapping for questions,
• Bloom’s Taxonomy integration,
• Visual audit of outcome distribution,
• Balanced syllabus coverage,
• Control over difficulty and importance levels, and
• Prevention of topical repetition to discourage selective learning.

Additionally, questionpaper.ai was introduced as a powerful AI-based tool that enables faculty to design CO-mapped question papers, course outcomes, assignments, and MCQs within minutes. These tools simplify some of the most time-consuming tasks in academia, ensuring quality and efficiency.

Afternoon Session: Hands-On Training with QnSmart i:

The practical session in the afternoon was led by Mr. Nibin Sunny, who provided detailed instructions on using the QnSmart i platform.

Throughout the session, support from Mr. Jaimon Kuriakose and Mr. Benny John Joseph ensured that all participants were able to work efficiently and without difficulty, reinforcing the workshop’s collaborative and user-centric approach.

Engaged Participation and Institutional Trust:

The workshop saw enthusiastic participation from 100 faculty members across departments, reflecting the institution’s commitment to academic advancement. It also underscored the enduring trust that Viswajyothi College places in academic solutions provided by ipsr solutions limited.

As a proud user of the QnSmart i platform, the college’s partnership with ipsr is not only a testament to shared educational goals but also a foundation for future academic tie-ups, industry collaborations, and capacity-building programs. The presence of sister institution Nirmala College, Muvattupuzha, in this collaborative ecosystem highlights the wider impact of these smart academic solutions across institutions managed by the Eparchy of Kothamangalam.

Acknowledgements and Institutional Support:

A heartfelt appreciation goes to the Examination Cell, the Autonomous Committee, and the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) of Viswajyothi College of Engineering and Technology for their exceptional coordination. Their seamless coordination and the enthusiastic participation of the faculty members significantly enhanced the learning outcomes and engagement throughout the event.

Gratitude Note: 

Delivering the vote of thanks, Dr. Shine George, Director of the Autonomous Committee, remarked that the conferment of autonomous status to Viswajyothi College marks a significant milestone, symbolizing a new era of academic freedom coupled with greater responsibility. Proactive steps were taken by Mr Somy P Mathew, Controller of Examination, by organizing a focused training session aimed at strengthening the academic practices. 

She extended sincere gratitude to Prof. Dr. Mendus Jacob for his insightful session on Outcome-Based Education (OBE) and Taxonomy levels, which opened up new perspectives on its vast potential. She also deeply appreciated Mr. Nibin Sunny for his exceptional patience and clarity in addressing numerous queries and for delivering highly relevant content. Special thanks are also due to Mr. Jaimon Kuriakose and Mr. Benny John Joseph for their valuable support in making the session informative and impactful for all participants.”

Closing Reflections:

The workshop on Smart Assessments with the OBE Approach proved to be an enriching experience for educators looking to implement meaningful academic reforms. With expert guidance and a strong collaborative environment, participants were left empowered to lead academic transformation in their respective institutions.

The event also reaffirmed the shared vision of Viswajyothi College of Engineering and Technology and ipsr solutions limited—to foster quality education through innovation, structured strategy, and a commitment to excellence. 

Strengthening Collaborations with the Diocese:

With ipsr solutions limited serving as the technical partner, the workshop marked a significant stride in empowering educators with cutting-edge, OBE-aligned assessment solutions. The successful implementation of the QnSmart i Question Bank software at Viswajyothi College has deepened IPSR’s association with the Diocese of Kothamangalam, under which the institution operates. This initiative follows the earlier deployment of the same solution at Nirmala College, Autonomous, Muvattupuzha, another reputed institution managed by the Diocese.

Looking Ahead:

With ipsr solutions limited as the technical partner, this workshop marks another important milestone in empowering educators with smart, OBE-aligned assessment solutions, contributing meaningfully to the advancement of institutional excellence and academic integrity.

Benny John Joseph

Benny John Joseph Manager-Business Development in ipsr solutions limited, with 19+ years of experience as Manager in Production, Quality & Marketing & 7+ years in Printing Technology.