Abstract:

How do we improve student learning? One solution we came up with in Accountancy and Finance in Swansea University was to run a new innovative MSc using intensive block teaching.

The new MSc was developed to include modules of intensive block teaching three hours every day for four or five weeks. Our students only learn one subject each block and complete the exam or assessment immediately afterwards. One of the aims of the course is to enhance student success by intensive learning, engage the students and to meet student’s aspiration. The intensive block teaching allows the students to prepare for external accountancy professional body exams which can be taken straight after the block of teaching outside of the university. The students can choose to sit these external professional exams.

The project looked at the success of the new MSc and the impact on both students learning and engagement. The study compared the student experience to more conventional methods of teaching. Specifically, the study looked at the impact of the block teaching on students’ learning and engagement. To measure success, students were asked to complete a questionnaire and provide feedback on the teaching. The questionnaire was analysed to see the effectiveness of block teaching, the marks on the course were compared to the previous year and similar modules for the same cohort of students. The effect on absenteeism was evaluated by comparing attendance records to last year and other similar modules. Student pass rate in the professional body exams was also used as one measure of success of the MSc block teaching. The lecturers involved were interviewed to gain their feedback on the new style of teaching and to highlight any areas for improvement. A literature review was also performed to evaluate the use of block teaching in modules to look at previous studies results and whether there is any benefit to this method of delivery.

The study found that the students preferred this method of teaching to a traditional 10-week term. Learning intensively for four weeks only one subject helped the student’s focus and concentration knowing that the assessments were straight after the block of teaching. Lecturers found it was very time-consuming teaching each day and required extensive preparation. There were variable results on students’ performance in line with modules which are taught over the 10-week term, and the students generally performed well in the external accountancy body professional exams. The literature gave varied opinions on the success of intensive block teaching.

Keywords:

Intensive, Block, Learning, Engagement, Performance.