The study programme implements its programme-specific learning outcomes/competencies (OLR) adequately based on the principle of constructive alignment and ensures that the OLR, teaching methods, and assessment are coherent throughout. The study programme implements its programme-specific learning outcomes/competencies (OLR) through several course units and ensures alignment and continuity between these course units in the curriculum. The study programme offers students plenty of curricular options, allowing them to develop a distinctive profile throughout their studies.

What?

A curriculum comprises a coherent set of course units based on a challenging, complex set of learning outcomes (in Dutch: opleidingsspecifieke leerresultaten, abbreviated to OLR).  

This coherence requires:  

• horizontal alignment of course units within a standard study track;  
• vertical alignment of course units across the various standard study tracks.  

This alignment can be visualised through curricular strands that gradually build up to the highest level of attainment in knowledge, skills, and attitudes. 

• each course unit has course-specific learning outcomes, which in turn reflect the attainment levels of the individual course unit.   
• lecturers align their teaching and assessment methods with these learning outcomes following the principle of constructive alignment. 

What is the Role of the Programme Committee? 

The Programme Committee develops, implements and evaluates the curricula for its study programme(s) (cf. Ghent University's Education and Examination Code): 

• It monitors the relevance of the learning outcomes. 
• It ensures the achievement of the learning outcomes across the curriculum.  
• It ensures that at least two course units address each learning outcome.  
• It integrates active and motivational teaching methods, such as practicals, seminars, group work, and guided self-study.  
• It monitors the balanced distribution of course units across the terms and the academic year to ensure a manageable study load.  
• It makes conscious decisions on online vs. on-campus activities and the use of educational technology. 
• It provides sufficient room for electives, allowing students to customise their curriculum according to their interests.  

Why? 

Promoting a coherent curriculum benefits students, lecturers, and, of course, the Programme Committee. 

A coherent curriculum enables students: 

• attain the learning outcomes at the appropriate level of attainment; 
• learn deeply by avoiding overlap and gaps in content; 
• understand the programme structure and make better choices for a customised study track;  
• invest in the study programme based on clear learning objectives.  

A coherent curriculum enables (newly appointed) lecturers to:  

• understand the place of their course unit in the curriculum;  
• better determine objectives, teaching methods, and assessment methods.  

A coherent curriculum allows the Programme Committee to: 

• evaluate the feasibility of the curriculum;  
• set up specific initiatives, such as content-related meetings for lecturers;  
• communicate clearly and specifically with students, lecturers, and stakeholders about the curriculum;
• guarantee a clear-cut profile.