Page 38 - AUN-QA

2.3. Programme Structure and Content

AUN-QA Criterion 3

1. The curriculum, teaching and learning methods and student assessment are
constructively aligned to achieve the expected learning outcomes.
2. The curriculum is designed to meet the expected learning outcomes where the
contribution made by each course in achieving the programme’s expected
learning outcomes is clear.
3. The curriculum is designed so that the subject matter is logically structured,
sequenced, and integrated.
4. The curriculum structure shows clearly the relationship and progression of basic
courses, the intermediate courses, and the specialised courses.
5. The curriculum is structured so that it is flexible enough to allow students to
pursue an area of specialisation and incorporate more recent changes and
developments in the field.
6. The curriculum is reviewed periodically to ensure that it remains relevant and
up-to-date.

AUN-QA Criterion 3 – Checklist

3 Programme Structure and Content 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
3.1 The curriculum is designed based on constructive
alignment with the expected learning outcomes [1]
3.2 The contribution made by each course to achieve
the expected learning outcomes is clear [2]
3.3 The curriculum is logically structured, sequenced,
integrated and up-to-date [3, 4, 5, 6]
Overall opinion

Explanation

The curriculum should be designed so that the teaching and learning methods and
student assessment support the achievement of the expected learning outcomes.
Biggs (2003) refers to this process as “constructive alignment”. “Constructive” refers
to the concept that students construct meaning through relevant learning activities;
and “alignment” refers to the situation when teaching and learning activities and
student assessment are aligned to achieve the expected learning outcomes.
Constructive alignment of any course involves:
 defining expected learning outcomes that are measurable;
 selecting teaching and learning methods that are likely to ensure that the
expected learning outcomes are achieved; and
 assessing how well the students have achieved the expected learning
outcomes as intended.

20 | P a g e