Empowering Future Engineers: Innovative and Interdisciplinary Teaching at VCU Engineering
Since joining VCU in 2019, Dr. Radhika Barua has taught various undergraduate, graduate, and experiential learning courses in the Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering. Her teaching approach integrates technical rigor with real-world relevance, preparing students to address complex engineering challenges.
As the College of Engineering’s representative on VCU’s ConnectED General Education Committee, Dr. Barua champions expanding access to transformative, experiential learning opportunities. Her pedagogy emphasizes innovation, critical thinking, and transdisciplinary collaboration, reflecting a forward-thinking vision for engineering education.
Her ability to secure competitive external funding has directly supported the VentureWell Foundation and the ASEE Mini-EOP Grant Program, which in turn has supported the development of innovative courses and instructional experimentation.
Awards and Recognition
In recognition of her teaching efforts, Dr. Barua was awarded the “Dean’s Teaching Award” by the College of Engineering at VCU in 2024.
Interdisciplinary Course: Sustainable Materials & Manufacturing
Open to students from both the College of Engineering and the VCU da Vinci Center.
Micro-Credential Course: Transdisciplinary Life Cycle Design Thinking
Developed in collaboration with faculty from the Schools of Business and the Arts.
Empowers students to work across disciplines while addressing sustainability challenges in materials and manufacturing.
Additional Micro-Credential Course
In partnership with the VCU ISEE and the Engineering for One Planet Framework, a micro-credential course titled “Sustainability - Transdisciplinary Life Cycle Design Thinking” is offered to students of all disciplines.