Donaghey College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
Associate Professor of Engineering
Dr. Ashokkumar Sharma is an associate professor of engineering in the School of Engineering and Engineering Technology at UA Little Rock. Sharma has been vital in curriculum development in the School of Engineering and Engineering Technology and has taught over 17 different courses within the school since joining the university seven years ago.
Sharma consistently receives high student evaluations in his courses for his engaging, inclusive, student-centered learning teaching style. He utilizes techniques such as use of backward design, hands-on lab demonstration, small group-based problem-solving sessions, frequent in-class Q&A sessions, and use of real-world examples and industrial applications to help students learn. This is made evident in the Computer Graphics course he teaches, which is a particularly challenging visualization course freshman engineering students take. Because of this, Sharma has been consistently rated as one of the best teachers in the school by students.
Sharma’s colleagues have commented and praised his work on developing and teaching new courses in the program. Sharma has taught over 17 different courses in the program since joining the university giving insight into the program and aiding in curriculum development. Outside the program. Sharma also makes an effort to improve his teaching techniques and educate other faculty. He has been a regular participant in the Academy for Teaching and Learning Excellence (ATLE) and the Mobile Institute of Scientific Teaching (MIST). He recently received a Scientific Teaching Mentor Certificate for facilitating a 5-day workshop with MIST on scientific evidence-based teaching practices. Sharma is currently assisting the MIST team on their ongoing educational research funded by the NSF.
Sharma received a Ph.D. in biosystems engineering from Oklahoma State University, a M.Tech in mechanical engineering from the Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology in India, and a B.E. in mechanical engineering from the Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda in India.