Instructional Methodology

The methodology relies on the material review, mini-case study, case study, checklists, simulations (where appropriate) and practicum approach. In terms of difficulty, course materials are positioned to level of experience and level in the workforce. Courses for general intake are offered at the college and university undergraduate level of comprehension, with no previous formal training in the subject matter required. Courses specific to organizations are further adapted to address the singular skills and experience of the student and the learning needs to be developed for the enterprise. These tend to have a more practical orientation to immediately identifiable sets of needs.

Most topics studied have substantial bodies of knowledge. That is, there now exist theories, concepts, approaches and applications in each topic that today’s well-informed student should know. The use of articles and internet materials format covers these key areas of knowledge. For some critical, abstract or difficult concepts, the instructor or monitor may also use a ‘mini-case study’ or article assignment to clarify them. These are supplemented with key factor and checklist handouts for quick reference and reinforcement.

The case method is used to connect the knowledge learning to its applicability in business. The student reads thoroughly a problem or ‘case’ described in some detail as it occurred or was reported. Students interact with the course monitor to discuss the case and possible solution(s) to the situation. Each student submits his/her solution to the instructor. The instructor marks and returns the assignment to the student with identified areas of learning and areas to improve. This ‘learning by doing’ approach is the integral part of the course.

Students are given a final exam to elicit their understanding of key concepts and connections. This is structured in two parts, definitions requiring explanations and examples and mini-cases to solve showing connections between principles to show understanding and learning. For all RIBO accredited courses successfully completed practicums are required for course completion. Practicums are approved assignments whereby the student applies learnings from the course on the job and delivers a report to the instructor for grading.

Course Organization

The instructor balances the introduction of materials, assignments and applications within an approved timeline. The role is to control the process through setting course content to clearly stated guidelines. The instructor is available for clarification and feedback on materials and assignments and provides timeline updates to ensure compliance. Finally, the various components are drawn together as a cohesive, connected whole in the final exam.

The monitor is a support for the student. S/he provides the student with an additional resource to work on the course materials, to discuss them, and clarify them acting as a virtual student or peer.

Course materials are similar to the seminar content. We expect that self-directed learners will spend 1.5 to 2 hours of work on assignments for every hour spent in the comparable seminar.  This is because the learner works at his/her own pace, within an agreed course timeline. Regardless, credit for hours is the same as the seminars.

Materials

A standard portfolio is used to provide the theories, concepts, approaches and standard applications. Cases are from actual situations in the business world usually from trade journals, newspaper reports, company sources and research work. These are updated regularly. Mini-cases are drawn from sector specific events which apply to the particular theory or concept being elucidated. Checklists are quick references for use in the course and at work. Simulations, where required, use a standardized enterprise with generic criteria to focus the students efforts on the assigned learning objectives.

Certifications of Completion

For students to receive the Certificate of Completion (Attendance) they must achieve a mark of at least 75% on all assignments and the practicum within the agreed timeline, no exceptions.
The Certificate will include the individual's name, seminar name, date (of completion) and facilitator, category and hours of credit.  For RIBO spot check purposes, the continuing education certificates must be maintained for 5 years to indicate compliance with the Continuing Education Program.

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