The article introduces external quality assessment results of first cycle and second cycle study programmes renewed under the Human Resources Development Action Programme 2007-2013 priority direction 2 "Lifelong Learning" (hereinafter the "Programme") through the aspect of planning students' independent work. Problems faced…

This article explains the relevance of the "Common European Framework of Reference for Languages" (CEFR) and the European Language Portfolio (ELP) to language learning in higher education, especially as regards the definition of aims and learning outcomes and the promotion of students' capacity to manage their own learning. After…

A five-year study of the bachelor of science in nursing program at Regents College documents the plausibility and efficacy of a program in which learning is self-directed and acquired primarily through resources external to the institution and which is validated and certified by objective assessment instruments and procedures. (JOW)

This paper reports on the development of a self-access center (SAC) within a university context, and focuses on the kind of support mechanisms provided to learners to enhance their self-directed learning (SDL) skills. After providing background information on the center and its counseling service, the paper shows how changes in the university…

This document presents an evaluation of the readings course program at New College at Hofstra University. Under this program, students divise an independent study project under the supervision of the faculty member. Readings courses may range from conventional readings and research to field work or the production of creative works. The student's…

A historical account is given of how a conventional university first-year undergraduate course in zoology has been replaced by a self-instructional one. Advantages and problems are weighed, and successful student achievement and interest are described. (LBH)

The objective of the study reported was to develop and to evaluate a multifaceted teaching program in gastroenterology for second-year students of medicine. Critical information is defined in a narrative, problem-oriented, pathophysiological core syllabus. (Editor)

Independent study or distance education courses were established in 1973 at five universities in Sweden. Evaluation of the project was planned to include: (1) a description of the student population, (2) a study of the students' use of and attitudes toward distance-bridging aids such as examinations and methods of instruction, (3) a special study…

The materials in this report provide a case study of the development and validation of self-instructional lessons on four topics customarily included in a first college accounting course. For each topic, performance objectives were embodied in four criterion tests. The author provides documents relating to departmental curriculum decisions and to…

Independent study is addressed as a creative and alternative mode of learning. Its unique advantages and strengths are examined along with its planning and structure, the student/instructor interaction, the use of learning resources, examples of disciplinary and interdisciplinary approaches, the products of such study, and methods of evaluation.…

The establishment of an individualized language program is seen as embracing four major considerations. A needs assessment will deal with the problem areas of negative attitudes and high attrition rates, inadequate operating budgets, and the tendency toward diminished effectiveness of foreign language instruction in general. Options for program…

A survey of student research in U.S. medical schools is described, including a University of Florida medical student research program. Analysis of the Florida program participants showed a 74 percent endorsement of research as an important, positive educational experience. (Author/MLW)

In 1972, the University of Pittsburgh initiated the University External Studies Program (UESP). The program emerged from a recognition of the university's responsibility to provide higher education to those previously unable to attend classes because of family or job responsibilities, geographic isolation, or limited mobility. This paper outlines…

Telecourses allow students to test their interests and aptitudes before committing themselves to a course of study. Milwaukee Area Technical College telecourses are available throughout a wide area via cable television. Because videocassettes of courses are available in the library, self-paced learning is possible. (SK)

The overall goal of the Master of Arts-Classroom Teaching (MA-CT) degree program at Michigan State University is to enable classroom teachers to demonstrate the knowledge, commitment, and ability to improve teaching effectiveness through self-sustained professional growth throughout their careers. An individualized plan of study is developed for…