16 Module Sequencing
Module Sequencing Matters
What is module sequencing and why does it matter? Continuing the car analogy, think of how difficult it would be to navigate a car on the freeway if you had not learned to drive in a more controlled environment first. This is why sequencing matters.
When a course is properly sequenced, each module builds on the module before it in a “learn to drive first, then enter the freeway” fashion. This, in turn, helps students be more successful in achieving the outcomes of the course.
Example
Consider these modules or topics in an ESL university English course, listed in no particular order:
- Reading Comprehension
- Writing Skills
- Oral Communication
- Vocabulary Building
- Grammar and Syntax
Now let’s say you were given the following learning outcomes:
- Demonstrate proficiency in written communication
- Use proper grammar, syntax and punctuation
- Express themselves clearly in oral communication
- Interpret what they read
How would you sequence the modules to ensure student success?
You might suggest the following:
- Oral Communication — Students need to begin speaking with each other to gain experience in a language.
- Vocabulary Building — Students will naturally gravitate to learning new vocabulary as they speak with each other.
- Grammar and Syntax — As students build speaking and vocabulary experiences they will learn grammar and syntax.
- Reading Comprehension — Seeing written language along with the experiences gained thus far in the course through speaking, building vocabulary, grammar, and syntax skills will add to and solidify reading comprehension.
- Writing Skills — Writing skills will be the culmination of all the previous experiences in the course.
Addressing Sequencing and Alignment Issues
If you do not have a clear understanding of where you are trying to take your students, you might have issues with sequencing and alignment. Thinking of your modules or topics like stops along a route could be helpful: you cannot get to one stop without passing through the previous one. All modules need to point you to your planned destination—your course outcomes.
If you find sequencing or alignment issues with your modules, you need to think through the route to your destination and make adjustments where necessary.
Course outcomes tell you what your students will be able to do at the end of the course. They describe broad aspects of behavior and incorporate a wide range of knowledge and skill.