Since these modules were designed with self-directed students in mind it is important to understand their structure and how to best use each one of the components.

 

Each module contains three main components as follows: a Preview Video, the Module Lessons, and a Module Test.

 

As each one of the components of a module is completed, the student should keep in mind and reflect on the learning outcomes as stated in the opening page of the module.

 

Preview Video: The short animated video will briefly preview the main concepts and principles that will be presented in more detail during the lesson videos. This component should provide you with a general idea of the content in the module while getting you familiarized with some of the vocabulary and notation that will be required.

 

Module Lessons: Each module contains a number of lesson videos that will introduce and develop the various topics within the module. Each lesson focuses on a specific topic and will both present the theory as well as a direct application example. The example can take the form of a Check Point, a Question, or a Problem. Within the title page of each lesson video you will be provided with information regarding whether it contains a Check Point, a Question, or a Problem.

 

• Check Points are conceptual questions based on the content of the lesson and are aimed at developing understanding while addressing common misconceptions. When answering a check point question, make sure to carefully review the explanation provided.
• Questions are presented within selected lesson videos directly after the presentation on a new concept or idea. These questions are direct application examples on how the concept is used in a specific physical situation.
• Problems are presented at the end of a number of lesson videos after further development on the content from the module. These problems will often require the synthesis of the material from the lesson with ideas from previous lessons and previous modules and require more detailed work than the questions.

 

Module Test: This summative piece of assessment will focus on the application of key concepts and principles presented in the module with a set of questions and problems. The questions are examples of direct application of the content in the module, while the problems involve synthesis with principles from previous lessons and will require suitable connections to be established.