Teaching and Learning

TEACHING AND LEARNING CONCEPTS

The share of independent work is about 75% of the total student workload and that includes reading, research work depending on the subjects. The share of active work (lectures and seminars) is also given prominent importance (10-15%). The common approach is to have a lecture per week and two exercises per courses. Depending on the pedagogical approach certain units may require more directed learning. In many courses students are required to work through a certain amount of compulsory readings, usually 15-20 pages per seminar.  In addition written assignments in the form of 1-2 page reflection paper, 5-7 page essays or up to 15 page research papers must be prepared.  Independent work also includes teamwork assignments.

The majority of graduate programs taught at UBT the students will be required to undertake practical and/or laboratory work.

The aims of practical work vary but usually include:

• Linking theory with practice.
• Developing hands-on skills and techniques.
• Learning how to use equipment.
• Understanding the scientific method.
• Developing problem-solving skills.
• Managing and analyzing data.
• Drawing conclusions and evaluative skills.
• Professional skills development – e.g. team work, presenting findings, etc.