What is block teaching?

By Eliza.Compton, 13 October, 2022
Series Type
Collections
Teaser
Whether it’s called block teaching, block scheduling, block planning or simply the block model, this mode of instruction is intense, immersive and sometimes divisive. But is it more effective than traditional university semesters? This collection of resources from academics around the world looks at how it works, its capacity to support diverse student cohorts across higher education, and its drawbacks and challenges.
Description
Whether it’s called block teaching, block scheduling, block planning or simply the block model, this mode of instruction is intense, immersive and sometimes divisive. But is it more effective than traditional university semesters? This collection of resources from academics around the world looks at how it works, its capacity to support diverse student cohorts across higher education, and its drawbacks and challenges.
Resource
By kiera.obrien, 4 July, 2024

Emerging leaders, your universities need you

In a group of wooden toy people, a red one stands out
When a university is undergoing transformational change, emerging leaders are crucial for translating strategy into action. Zoë Allman and Gary Souter share their experience of leading on curriculum change
Reading time
5minutes
By Eliza.Compton, 2 July, 2024

What block learning taught me about meeting diverse student needs

motor racing pitstop crew
In block learning, where time is condensed, students are at a greater risk of falling behind. Here, Kevin Merry explains how formative assessment can drive targeted instruction and enable students to accelerate their learning
Reading time
4minutes
By Eliza.Compton, 17 February, 2023

Questions beyond majors: developing mental maturity in students

Hand holding a compass in open road
When undergraduates build their own course plan, reading list and thesis project, the benefits extend beyond the individual student’s mindset to teaching faculty, write Ryan Derby-Talbot and Marjorie Wonham
Reading time
4minutes
By Eliza.Compton, 27 January, 2023

New views on the block: schedule or philosophy?

Blocks in the air with a yellow one in the middle
Colorado College founded its Block Plan in the heady, revolutionary late 1960s. What can a look back over 50 years teach us about the future of compressed and modular modes of curriculum delivery?
Reading time
4minutes
By Eliza.Compton, 29 April, 2022

Block teaching: what it is, how to do it and why

Hand stacking a column of blocks
With its short, intense courses, is block teaching the way to boost student success and engagement? John Weldon gives seven tips for switching to the block model and examples of what it offers university educators
Reading time
4minutes
By Eliza.Compton, 16 September, 2022

Blocks for building a stronger student community

Pyramid of people-shaped blocks
Block teaching can help rapidly establish bonds among students, and with their lecturers, which in turn maximises learning potential. Here, Sarah Jones offers insights from the 50-year history of block scheduling
By Eliza.Compton, 10 August, 2022

Rhythm of a class: lesson-planning and assessment in block teaching

Metronome
Block scheduling rethinks curriculum design, lesson-planning, assessment and feedback. Tom Clark outlines how this shift, as well as blended learning resources, helped Victoria University meet students’ need for clear and reliable rhythms of study
Reading time
4minutes