PrintAddiction Education Course Delivery Formats
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The Addiction Education program offers courses in two different learning formats. It is important that you consider the learning format and its suitability for you in order to ensure that you have a successful learning experience.
In-Class Format:
Courses are held at McMaster’s Downtown Centre, Hamilton, unless otherwise indicated.
Condensed Weekend Block
- Courses are condensed over two full weekends (Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 - 5:00). Typically, there are two weeks free in between the two weekends.
- Class size ranges from 12 to 50 students.
- Teaching methods include lecture, case studies, individual and group projects, group discussions, etc.
- It is expected that students will have done the readings in advance of each weekend.
- Weekend block courses typically have a pre-course assignment due on the first day of class.
- It is critical that students be able to attend all four days, as the classroom work is an important part of the learning experience.
Considerations for Taking a Condensed Weekend Block Course
- Your schedule allows you to attend all four days of class.
- You have time set aside before the class begins to complete the readings and
pre-course assignment.
- You have time set aside during and after the course dates to complete the other assignments. The final assignment is typcially due two weeks after the last class.
- You prefer the condensed delivery because you are travelling from out of town or
have other commitments.
Evenings
Occasionally, a course will be offered in an evening format.
- Courses meet one time per week for three hours in the evening and run for 10 or 13 weeks, depending on the unit value of the course.
- Class size tends to be smaller (10 to 25 students).
- Readings and assignments are spread out over the full term.
- Teaching methods include lecture, case studies, individual and group projects, group discussions, etc.
Considerations for Taking an In-Class Course
- Your schedule allows you to attend class at the same time each week.
- You prefer the content to be spread out over a longer timeframe.
Online Format (self study):
- Courses start the first of every month with a registration deadline of the 22nd of the month prior.
- A 2 unit course runs for four months, while a 3 unit course runs for six months.
- Assignments are due on specified days throughout the course duration.
- Students are welcome to submit assignments ahead of schedule and complete the course at a faster pace, if desired.
- Students receive a Course Guide to accompany the required readings. The Guide presents the content to the student with exercises and self-reflection questions. Each unit concludes with the assignment that is submitted for grading.
- Some courses use McMaster’s online learning management system called Avenue to Learn (A2L) to access videos and electonic readings, resources or tools. A2L is web-based and can be accessed from any internet connection.
- You have access to the course grader through email for clarification and questions.
- You should expect to allocate approximately six to eight hours per week to complete your work.
- The courses were designed to be flexible for students who are juggling life, work, family, etc.
- A pre-course email with information on the course, course materials, etc. is sent the week prior to the course start date.
Considerations for Taking an Online Course
- You are good at keeping yourself on task to complete a project.
- You are comfortable asking for clarification when needed and expressing yourself in written form through email or a discussion board.
- You are able to read the textbook (and the assignments) on your own and understand the concepts.
- You are able to work independently.
- You are comfortable using technology.
- You have regular access to a computer and a reliable email address.