‘Module 9’: a new course to help students develop interdisciplinary projects using the framework of Experiential Learning Theory

Abstract

This paper offers an example of how to introduce student-centred knowledgecreation and competency development in a systematic way into a master’sprogramme. The curriculum of a new course called Module 9 was framedaccording to Experiential Learning Theory (ELT). While student teams workon self-selected projects, their learning processes are accompanied byworkshops and tutorials. As a consequence, practical experience drivesstudents’ learning within the applied projects that were implemented incollaboration with local companies. Coding of learning memoranda show thateach team applies each learning mode during the different stages of theprojects. While evaluations of the experiences were generally positive,awareness of the learning processes can be increased throughout the course.Reflections include important lessons and improvements for the next cohorts.