Does anyone have any information on block scheduling in college in general? And specifically at the University of Montana Western? Been looking for threads relating to block scheduling in college, but can’t find much information.
I’ve taken a month-long college writing intensive course a couple summers ago and found it stressful, mainly due to the cramming of information in such short amount of time. As it’s the norm at colleges that have block scheduling, interested in finding out if students with such academic schedule find the courses bearable (with such short amount of time to absorb information).
I’m OOS, but considering the university if I can get the WUE scholarship (a lot cheaper than my state school!).
Block plans have pros and cons. I’m not familiar with UMW, but one of my kids attended another school that has a block plan.
If you’re in a major that benefits from extensive off-campus field work (e.g. geology, botany, anthropology), block plans can make it easier to schedule that activity. If you’re doing a weeks-long studio art or lab science project, the block plan may allow your class (and only your class) to have 24/7 access to the studio/lab facilities. The schedule may have multi-day breaks between blocks, which can create opportunities for long weekend road trips or other activities.
If you’re in a major where each course tends to build cumulatively on preceding courses (like foreign languages), then you might find the block plan disruptive. However, your college may have language houses or other ways to encourage continuity. Ask current students/faculty about this, if you’re concerned. In theory, the total amount of work should be about the same as in a conventional semester schedule.
I suspect most students in most majors could do fine under either a block or conventional schedule. You adapt.
DD is seriously considering a block plan school. She is a fast learner, fast reader and loves the idea of immersion in one course at a time. The Block Plan offers unique opportunities like off campus studies. I think it requires a certain type of student who embraces the concept. Definitely not for everyone in my opinion…fwiw…
I went to a block plan school for undergrad and am a huge fan. DD18 has enrolled in my alma mater and the block plan was a HUGE draw for her. The pace can be intense, certainly for some classes more than others (I’m talking about you organic chemistry) but since you focus on one subject it is easier to compartmentalize your time. You don’t have to give up work in one subject to catch up or focus on a test/paper for another. It’s true that the block plan isn’t for everyone but I would say for most students who are willing to consider it those students are happy with the schedule when they learn to adjust to the pace.
Is there any way you can visit Montana Western? I’m from Montana and from what I know it’s a small school (and well respected). I am curious how many OOS students enroll… it might have a particular vibe and I would think it a good idea to visit to make sure it feels like a good fit socially since it is pretty rural.
I transferred from a semester system community college to a block plan college in the mid 80’s. I loved the block plan. We were able to do lab work and go on field trips with no conflicts. Professors could schedule class time anytime they wanted between 9-11 am and 1-3 pm. Athletics could schedule practices from 3-6 pm. It allowed the students time to know when they could schedule club meetings and work time.