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My Teaching Philosophy

        My teaching philosophy is rooted in interactive, hands-on learning that mirrors real-world industry practices. I employ a student-centered approach, seamlessly integrating theoretical foundations, practical applications, and problem-solving methodologies to cultivate both technical expertise and analytical thinking. By incorporating technology-driven instruction, experiential learning, and certification-based curricula, I empower students with the critical skills required to thrive in the dynamic IT landscape.​

        In Information Technology (IT) education, both inductive and deductive learning approaches play crucial roles in fostering a comprehensive understanding of complex concepts. Deductive methods introduce students to core IT theories and principles, laying the foundation for critical knowledge acquisition. In contrast, inductive learning enhances problem-solving abilities and hands-on application, allowing students to derive insights through practical exploration and real-world scenarios. For instance, in cybersecurity education, I first introduce foundational security principles through deductive instruction. This is followed by inductive exercises, such as penetration testing labs, where students analyze cyber threats, evaluate vulnerabilities, and implement security measures to defend against real-world attacks. This blended instructional approach not only strengthens students’ conceptual understanding but also enhances their critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and practical skill development. By combining inductive and deductive strategies, I foster deep learning, adaptability, and knowledge retention, ensuring that students are well-equipped to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Ultimately, my goal is to cultivate innovative problem solvers who possess the technical mastery and strategic mindset necessary to address evolving challenges in the IT industry. ​

        Beyond academic instruction, I emphasize the importance of continuous learning and professional growth in the ever-evolving field of Information Technology. To prepare students for long-term success, I actively encourage them to seek internships, part-time jobs, and hands-on experiences in IT-related roles. Gaining real-world exposure allows students to apply classroom knowledge in practical settings, develop industry-relevant skills, and build professional networks that enhance career opportunities. Understanding the demands of the modern IT workforce, I guide students toward industry certifications, research projects, and experiential learning opportunities that align with their career aspirations. Whether through cybersecurity labs, cloud computing projects, or networking simulations, I ensure that students engage in practical problem-solving scenarios that mirror the challenges they will face in their professional journeys. Professor Ifti

Discover My Journey

My name is Muhammad Iftikhar, widely known as “Professor Ifti.” I was born in Gujrat, Pakistan. My educational journey began at Govt. Muslim high school, Gujrat, where I graduated in 1985. I then attended Govt. Zamindar Degree College for two years, and later, I earned my first bachelor’s degree from Government Sir Syed Degree College affiliated with Punjab University.
In 1992, I started my teaching career, and by 1995, I founded “Seraj School of Sciences,” which quickly became a leading high school in Gujrat.

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Exploring My Path

As the youngest high school principal at the time, I served for seven years before moving to the USA with my family in 2001. In the USA, I explored various fields, from retail to IT. I pursued higher education, earning two master’s degrees: an MBA in Information Management & Marketing and a Master of Science in Cybersecurity & Information Assurance. Additionally, I hold over a dozen IT Certifications. I spent seven years working in the IT department at Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA)-Manassas Campus

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During this time, I also taught CompTIA A+ certification courses with the Workforce Division and served as an adjunct professor in the Information and Engineering Technology (IET) department. In 2020, I accepted a full-time faculty position in the IET Division and continued to teach CompTIA A+ certification classes each semester for the Workforce Division. Now, I am pursuing a Ph.D. in Information Technology with a concentration in Cyber Engineering at University of the Cumberlands.

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