Basic didactic concepts

The course description in the curriculum consists of a number of elements that together ensure clarity, consistency and pedagogical effectiveness of teaching. Each of these elements has its own function in the planning, implementation and evaluation of the course and contributes to the transparency of the teaching process. Below is a brief overview of the components of a course description according to the usual structure in the Croatian higher education system. Here you can download that document in Word (.DOCX).

1. General information

This section provides basic information about the course, including the course title, the names of the lecturer and collaborator, the year and semester in which the course is offered, the expected number of students, and the ECTS credit value. It also includes information on the number of teaching hours (lectures, seminars, and exercises) and the proportion of each form of instruction within the total ECTS value, as well as the expected number of hours of independent student work.

2. Course description

This central part of the implementation plan includes a series of elements that determine the educational content, outcomes and methodology of work.

1.1. Course objectives

The objectives of the course are defined, specifying the knowledge, skills, and competences that students are expected to acquire upon completion of the course. These objectives focus on the development of the theoretical and/or practical aspects of the course’s professional and scientific content.

1.2. Course enrollment requirements

Enrollment prerequisites are listed, if applicable, such as previously completed courses or a required level of prior knowledge.

1.3. Course learning outcomes

The section also describes the specific knowledge and skills that students should demonstrate after successfully completing the course. Learning outcomes are formulated in a measurable and verifiable manner and are aligned with the teaching and assessment methods.

1.4. Connection with the learning outcomes of the study program

It states how the course contributes to meeting the learning outcomes of the study program.

1.5. Course content

The course structure is presented according to thematic units, teaching units or weeks. This section serves as the basis for creating an implementation plan.

1.6. Teaching method

The organizational form of teaching is determined (e.g. classical, modular, online, etc.).

1.7. Types of teaching

This specifies which forms of teaching are used within the course (e.g. lectures, seminars, exercises, fieldwork, mentoring) along with the corresponding number of teaching hours.

1.8. Student obligations

Activities that students need to complete during the course are defined, such as attending classes and completing seminar papers, essays, research or practical assignments.

1.9. Monitoring student work

It states which forms of monitoring will be used to evaluate students. This includes various methods such as attendance, activity, written and oral exams, seminar papers, projects, etc.

1.10. Grading and evaluation of student work

The method of forming the final grade is defined, including the number and type of preliminary exams, the final exam, etc.

1.11. Required reading

The titles of the basic literature required for mastering the content of the course are listed.

1.12. Additional literature

Additional literature is listed here that is not necessary but can contribute to a better understanding of the content and broadening knowledge.

1.13. Quality assurance methods

Describes methods for ensuring and monitoring the quality of course delivery and the acquisition of intended knowledge, skills and competencies. This may include analysis of pass rates, student surveys, evaluations of learning outcomes and other forms of internal quality assurance.