Modules and Courses
The term "module" in this context refers to a thematically confined
and time-limited study unit, which consists of specified lectures or
seminars that constitute the necessary independent studies workload and
test performance requirements to earn credits toward a degree.
The size of a module depends on the number of "workloads" it contains,
which prescribe the number of hours necessary for the average student
to prepare for the exam that verifies proof of academic achievement for
that module. The hours include the time necessary to participate in
seminars and lectures as well as homework/study-prep time.
Each successfully completed workload comprised of 30 hours is
equivalent to one credit. If, for example, a student who passes the
performance test for a workload that is defined to earn 5 credits, the
student will receive - according to the European Credit Transfer
System (ECTS) - 5 ECTS points.
Accordingly, a module that is worth 10 ECTS points requires a workload
of 300 hours. Completion of a Bachelor Degree requires 180 ETCS points
that are to be acquired over six semesters.
A modular degree aims to not only educate in specialised subject
knowledge, but also in applications, methods, foreign languages or key
"soft skills", such as communication, project competence, and teamwork.
There are study regulations for each course of study which describe the
possibilities for combining modular studies into the degree program.
Various combinations are possible depending on the function of the
module, e.g. orientation module, foundation module, optional required
subject module, optional modules, core module, subject module, profile
module, advanced studies, etc.
Understanding the single modules and the possibilities for combining
them in a course of studies is helpful for learning more about that
course of studies. The descriptions of these modules are located on the
subject specific pages of this information site: Studium
ECTS.
With regards to the course of studies as a whole, one can imagine the
modules as large „building blocks“ that are combined in such a way that
correspond to the examination regulations and simultaneously build the
foundation of the profile necessary for your individual career
goals.
The various courses of study and the counterpart modules will introduce
you to an assortment of learning events. The most common types of
learning events:
- Lectures are instructor lead classes that relay subject-specific knowledge. The class instructor lectures in front of the classroom using media presentations of basic concepts and overviews where appropriate.
- Exercises and Practical Units are activities that enable the students to test scientific/academic techniques and methods, as well as their own understanding of fundamental theoretical knowledge. Usually reports must be completed to conclude conduction of the tested procedures, techniques and methods.
- Tutorials are special meetings arranged with experienced or advanced students for reviewing knowledge and are usually held in connection with a seminar (see below).
- Field Trips facilitate the acquisition of special knowledge “on-site”, i.e. in museums, job sites, etc.
- Introductory Seminars are offered in the Stage I study phase of studies (Grundstudium) to introduce students to completing academic/scientific work independently.
- Seminars and Intermediate Seminars are offered to students of both Stage I and Stage II (Hauptstudium) study phases. Normally students choose one of the topics offered in the seminar, which they then research and prepare with the guidance of the seminar instructor, and eventually present as a topic to the other students participating in the seminar. The students acquire deep contextual knowledge in a specific topic area and simultaneously learn how to prepare and present complex topics.
- Advanced Seminars require the students to have
well-developed skills in working independently. In these seminars,
students must manage specified scientific/academic assignments and work
intensively with specific topic areas. These seminars are offered to
students in the Stage II phase of their studies.
*All types of seminars are characterised by group discussions, reports and lectures and often the completion of homework and/or term papers. - Colloquiums are specifically designed for advanced students in their later semesters. These courses serve to conduct subject-specific discussions and discuss research problems and progress in the field, interdisciplinary topics, or final exam preparation. The discussions are usually conducted or supported by several instructors
