Dr. Vinod Bhatt - An Innovator in English Literature and Journalism Shaping Future Scholars

 

Dr. Vinod Bhatt, Associate Professor, VIT Bhopal University
 
I am Dr. Vinod Bhatt, a higher education professor, researcher, and learner. I have been working as an associate professor at VIT Bhopal University. I have written nine books dealing with different aspects of interdisciplinary domains. I have been credited with 7 patents on very unique and different ideas of thoughts. I have written 17 Scopus-indexed papers and approximately 42 peer review papers published in international journals.
 

Could you tell us about your educational and professional journey?

I obtained my Ph.D. in English Literature from Vikram University, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, in 2008. In addition to my Ph.D., I did my M.Phil. and MA from the same university in 2003 and 2002, respectively. I was very passionate about media studies, so I did my Bachelor of Journalism and Master of Journalism from Jiwaji University, Gwalior. I obtained my second Ph.D. in Journalism and Mass Communication in 2023 from LNCT University Bhopal.
 

What inspired you to pursue a career in academia, particularly in English literature, language, and journalism?

My passion for academia, particularly in language teaching, literature, and journalism, stems from a deep love for storytelling and communication. Literature has always been a gateway to understanding diverse perspectives, cultures, and human experiences. It challenges us to think critically and empathetically, allowing us to explore the complexities of the human condition. Language, as a tool, fascinates me because of its power to shape thought, convey ideas, and influence society. The way words can be crafted to evoke emotion, create connections, and spark change is something I find endlessly intriguing. Journalism, on the other hand, is a natural extension of this passion for language and storytelling. It’s about uncovering truths, giving voice to the voiceless, and holding power to account, all while engaging with the world in real-time. Pursuing a career in these fields allows me to combine my love for critical analysis, creative expression, and the responsibility of informing and educating others. It’s a way to contribute meaningfully to both academic discourse and the broader public conversation.
 

Reflecting on your 20 years of experience, what would you identify as your most significant achievements or milestones?

Reflecting on my 20 years in academia, several significant achievements and milestones stand out. One of the most rewarding has been the impact I have had on student learning and development. Watching students grow, both intellectually and personally, as they engage with the material and develop their critical thinking skills has been incredibly fulfilling. Another major milestone has been my contributions to research. Over the years, I've had the privilege of publishing articles and papers that have added to the academic discourse in my field, particularly in English literature, language, teaching pedagogies, and journalism. These works not only advanced knowledge but have also influenced teaching practices and curricula. Additionally, I have been involved in several interdisciplinary projects and collaborations, which have broadened my perspective and enriched my approach to teaching and research. Organizing and participating in international conferences has also been a significant achievement, providing a platform for exchange and fostering global academic networks.
 

Could you share some of the new curricula you’ve developed and how they address the evolving needs of students and the industry?

Over the years, I've developed several new curricula centered on technical writing communication and professional communication, soft skills, language, and society to address the evolving needs of both students and the industry. One of the key curricula I have designed focuses on Technical Writing for the digital age. This course integrates traditional technical writing principles with modern digital communication tools. It teaches students not only how to craft clear and concise technical documents but also how to adapt these documents for various digital platforms, including websites, blogs, and social media. By incorporating multimedia elements and digital tools and emphasizing the importance of the user experience, this curriculum ensures that students are well-prepared to meet the demands of today's technology-driven industries.

Another curriculum I've developed is Professional Communication in Global Contexts. Recognizing the increasingly global nature of the workforce, this course addresses the challenges of cross-cultural communication and the need for adaptability in professional settings. Students learn effective strategies for communicating with diverse audiences, including international colleagues, clients, and stakeholders. The curriculum also emphasizes the importance of ethical communication and the role of cultural sensitivity in maintaining positive professional relationships. These curricula are designed to be dynamic and responsive to the changing landscape of communication in professional environments. They equip students with the skills necessary to excel in their careers and meet the expectations of employers in a fast-evolving industry.
 

Could you tell us about any prominent awards and accolades you have been honored with throughout your distinguished career?

I received an International Prize BOGDANI from the International Writers Association Bogdani, Pristina, Kosovo, headquarter in Brussels. This is an honorary prize and it is given with the motivation for "Theory and Creativity of Writing," the best international writer translated into Albanian and other languages, presented to IWA Bogdani. This prize, which IWA Bogdani gives, is traditional and is given every year on 17 February for the Independence Day of Kosova.
 

What advice would you give to aspiring academics who wish to follow in your footsteps, especially those interested in combining different fields like literature and journalism?

For aspiring academics who wish to follow a similar path, especially those interested in combining fields like language teaching and journalism, my advice would be to embrace interdisciplinary learning and remain adaptable. First, cultivate a strong foundation in both disciplines. Mastery of language teaching provides you with the pedagogical skills needed to effectively communicate complex ideas, while journalism sharpens your ability to think critically, research thoroughly, and engage with current events. The combination of these fields can create a powerful synergy, allowing you to approach teaching and research from a unique and impactful perspective. Second, stay curious and open to continuous learning. The fields of language and journalism are constantly evolving, particularly with the rapid advancements in technology and digital media. Keep yourself updated with the latest trends, tools, and methodologies, and don’t hesitate to explore new areas of study that intersect with your primary interests. Third, focus on developing a versatile skill set. In academia, versatility is a strength. Whether it’s through engaging in research, publishing articles, or contributing to curriculum development, being able to apply your skills across different contexts will make you more effective and open up more opportunities. Additionally, seek out opportunities for collaboration. Working with colleagues from different fields can offer new insights and enhance your own work. Interdisciplinary projects not only broaden your perspective but also enrich your academic contributions and teaching methods.