Block Teaching at DMU: The Focused Learning Approach
Jun, 20 2023
Block teaching focuses on one module at a time. It is a pedagogical approach emphasising an intensive learning process. This approach allows students to fully immerse themselves in the subject matter, resulting in better retention and understanding of the material. Block teaching can also provide more opportunities for hands-on learning and experiential activities.
Block teaching is an educational approach that condenses course material into shorter, intensive study periods, typically a few weeks long. DMU Dubai has embraced this method, which involves teaching subjects in a condensed format focusing on the intensive academic programme. In this blog, we will explore block teaching, how it works, and the advantages of this approach. We will also look at how DMU Dubai has successfully implemented block teaching to enhance the learning experience for its students.
What is Block Teaching Method?
Block teaching involves breaking down academic programme into smaller, intensive blocks of time rather than spreading them over an entire semester. The programme is delivered over a shorter period, and students focus solely on that module during the block. This approach promotes deeper learning as students are fully immersed in the subject matter and have more opportunities to engage with the material.
Objectives of Block Teaching
The goals of block teaching are to:
Promote deep learning by immersing students in the subject matter for a shorter period.
Encourage student engagement by providing more opportunities for interaction and discussion.
Allow students to focus solely on one module at a time, reducing the potential for distraction and increasing concentration.
Increase flexibility, as students can choose when to take the module and fit their studies around other commitments.
Provide more time for reflection and feedback, as students can complete assessments and receive feedback within a shorter time frame.
There are several advantages to using Block Teaching, including:
Increased student engagement: Block teaching provides more opportunities for student engagement and interaction, as students spend more time together in class and have more opportunities to discuss the material.
More focused learning: Block teaching allows students to focus solely on one module at a time, reducing the potential for distraction and increasing concentration. It helps to promote deeper learning and a better understanding of the subject matter.
Flexibility: Block teaching provides more flexibility; students can choose when they take module and fit their studies around other commitments. It is beneficial for students who work or have other responsibilities.
Increased feedback: Block teaching provides more time for reflection and feedback, as students can complete assessments and receive feedback within a shorter timeframe. It helps students to improve their learning and achieve better results.
DMU Dubai and Block Teaching
DMU Dubai has successfully implemented block teaching to enhance the learning experience for its students. The university offers a range of programmes taught using the block model, which has been well-received by students and professors alike. DMU Dubai's block teaching approach includes the following:
Immersive learning: DMU Dubai's block teaching approach facilitates deep learning by condensing modules into a shorter, intensive period, promoting a thorough understanding of the subject matter and the ability to apply it to real-world situations.
Increased interaction and engagement: This approach enhances student interaction and engagement by providing ample opportunities to discuss course material during the shorter, intensive study periods, promoting deeper learning and a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
Flexibility and convenience: This approach affords greater flexibility to students, enabling them to choose when to take modules and tailor their studies around other commitments, a feature particularly advantageous to working students or those with other responsibilities.
Improved results: DMU Dubai's block teaching approach allows for more reflection and feedback. Students complete assessments and receive feedback within a shorter timeframe, resulting in better learning outcomes and improved results.
Programme structure and delivery
At DMU Dubai, the block teaching approach allows students to focus on one module at a time rather than juggling multiple ones simultaneously. One block lasts for about seven weeks and is worth 30 credits. Each academic year consists of four blocks divided into two semesters, allowing students to dedicate their full attention and energy to each module.
Faculty and Staff Perspective
DMU Dubai's block teaching approach requires more intensive planning and preparation from professors. The block teaching approach can also be more rewarding for professors, as they have more opportunities to interact with students and see the impact of their teaching more immediately.
Conclusion
Block teaching at the university is a powerful tool for promoting deep learning and student engagement. DMU Dubai has successfully implemented this approach, offering programmes using the block model. By breaking modules into smaller, intensive blocks, DMU Dubai enables students to achieve their academic goals efficiently and effectively, while faculty benefit from more immediate feedback on their teaching.
