Modularisation--its versatility and value.

Abstract

The issue of credit accumulation is topical and offers real prospects for nursing education to be considered as a part of an academic continuum in keeping with higher education. It cannot easily be considered without taking into account modularisation which offers a structure for the justification and award of credits. Modularisation of courses holds exciting prospects and offers a practical, logical approach to course development. Modules can be versatile and used in very cost-effective and efficient ways, both as an integral part of the course and as free-standing entities. This article considers the building of a curriculum using a modular approach. The terms module, credit and levels are examined to provide full background information. Also identified are some of the additional potential uses of modules. The work is written from the experience of developing modular courses and offers examples from an existing Diploma. There are, however, some notes of caution and these are raised to add balance to the otherwise enthusiastic discussion.