Design of Evidence-Based Blended Learning in Higher Education

What do teachers expect?

A module is a completed, internally coherent study component with clear learning objectives and entry requirements. Module education offers a structured study process. The learning path, the chosen teaching and testing methods and the study load distribution are based on an explicit pedagogical concept.
Wherever necessary, there is recognisable coherence with other modules (e.g., via learning pathways in a curriculum). A module organiser can support this. This indicates coherence with the other modules and offers a clear focus on students’ learning.

Why does the institute choose modules?

One reason an institute chooses a module system is that the Modules give the teacher the possibility to structure the students’ learning. For example, more first-year students should obtain the necessary study points to be allowed to go to the following year. Another example is when more students should get a bachelor’s degree within the standard period. The consequence is that the study becomes more intensive. Running behind is not an option. In this pedagogical model, the students are closely supervised.

The extra design requirements for modules in the first semester

Students often do not follow an effective study strategy on their own. However, they are personally responsible for their commitment to their studies by following a realistic study plan, including preparing for exams on time. A module book explaining the course program can help them to follow a more successful study strategy.
Another goal, especially in the first semester, is to enable the students to learn the necessary study strategies to be ‘professional’ university students, among other things, through more structured or suitable assignments.

Furthermore, modules can be offered to help eliminate the serious shortfalls in the expected entry level.

Elements of a module (or block) book

1. Introduction (with an organiser);
   • Learning Objectives and test criteria;
   • Study credits;
   • Expected entry level of the students. If necessary, additional modules will be added to clear backlogs.
   • Description of course materials;
   • Relationship with other modules in the curriculum (learning tracks);
   • Teacher team, consultation hours and email.
2. Program
3. Module structure;
   • Schedule study activities, including the contact hours ;
   • Study load;
   • Educational methods;
   • Study Directions and support;
4. Scheme testing.
5. (Self)study assignments;
6. Sample tests plus answers;
7. Literature and other educational resources;
8. Attachments.