what is indepedent study course

by Miss Eda Hudson III 6 min read

An independent study is a course of instruction in which a student works on his or her own on a specified topic and coursework for a set amount of credits. The student will work with a professor or teacher to complete a long-term project or several projects, and the student will conduct research and complete assignments on his or her own.

Independent study allows you to learn about a subject that's unavailable in your school's established curriculum or about a topic you would like to explore in greater depth. You create your course, determine what you study, and then work one-on-one with a faculty member to earn academic credit.Sep 1, 2021

Full Answer

How do I sign up for an independent study course?

Independent study is offered through most colleges and universities, as well as various organizations, such as museums and government agencies. Schools typically offer independent study as credit-bearing courses, many of which are transferable to other colleges. Some schools feature lists of independent study courses that already have curricula in place, while others will …

How to enroll in independent study courses?

In an independent study, you essentially create your own course on a topic of your choice, working in concert with your faculty advisor or other COE faculty member. If you are looking for something different - a special field experience, a chance to try research, or simply explore a topic in more depth - you should consider doing an independent study under faculty supervision.

What do you need to know about independent study?

An independent study course may not be approved if it covers the same subject as an existing course that is offered at your school. Independent study …

How to approach a professor for an independent study course?

An Independent Study (I.S.) course or an Advanced Studio course is not a regularly scheduled university course, but is arranged, planned and managed by a supervising professor in conjunction with the goals that are proposed by the student. Those plans are then refined and approved by the supervising professor prior to registration.

What does an independent study course mean?

Independent study is an alternative education program that addresses individual student needs and learning styles. The model allows students to complete their academics outside the traditional classroom setting.Aug 26, 2021

What are independent studies examples?

Usually, students look to independent study when they have an interest in a special topic that's not offered at most high schools. Some examples of special topics would be courses like Asian-American history, British Literature, or Chinese language.Feb 10, 2019

Is independent study hard?

Taking an independent study can be more difficult than a traditional course because you have to keep yourself on track. While you will have an adviser to supervise the course, you will be the one in charge of making sure you are completing enough work; there will be no teacher to give you assignments every day.Nov 4, 2018

Is independent study a good option?

Independent study can be a great option for some pupils; however, it may not be the right option for every pupil who is not thriving in a regular classroom setting. Some pupils might be better served in an educational option that is classroom-based and offers a smaller learning environment and more individualization.Sep 24, 2021

What is the difference between homeschool and independent study?

Homeschool differs from independent study in that students are not actually enrolled at their local public school, and you as a parent or guardian are responsible for designing and implementing curriculum.Aug 10, 2021

When should you do independent study?

If you are looking for something different - a special field experience, a chance to try research, or simply explore a topic in more depth - you should consider doing an independent study under faculty supervision.

How do I prepare for an independent study?

Develop a timetable for implementation of activities and completion of course requirements.Write a goal statement/purpose of Independent study. Write a brief description of the background, experience and strengths the student brings to the topic/focus area. ... List course learning objectives. ... Develop a timetable and plan.

Why independent study is important?

Overall, independent learning is a critical skill for students to develop because it promotes creativity and intellectual curiously. We want our students to be active rather than passive learners. Instead of waiting to be told what to do, students can take ownership of their own learning.

Is independent studies homeschool?

Parents who wish to educate their children at home in California can do it independently, but they also have the option to send their children to existing private schools, public charter schools, or public independent study programs (also known as ISP's).

How does independent study work?

Independent study allows you to learn about a subject that's unavailable in your school's established curriculum or about a topic you would like to explore in greater depth. You create your course, determine what you study, and then work one-on-one with a faculty member to earn academic credit.Sep 1, 2021

What is short term independent study?

What is short term independent study? Short-term independent study allows a student to continue learning asynchronously under the supervision of their regularly assigned teacher when the student is unable to attend school for a limited period of time due to unique circumstances.

Is independent study distance learning?

If you have been operating an Independent Study program or school, you do not need to make any legal changes. The new Distance Learning option is only for the 20-21 school year and is separate from Independent Study.

What are independent study courses?

Many colleges, universities and community colleges offer independent study courses for students who wish to study a subject or area not covered in existing courses or conduct an independent research project.

How to do independent study?

Along with needing an instructor and approval for your proposed independent study, keep in mind that: 1 You may be required to dedicate a certain number of hours each week to your independent study coursework, and meet with your instructor at specified intervals. 2 An independent study course may not be approved if it covers the same subject as an existing course that is offered at your school. 3 Independent study courses are not usually applicable to a degree program's general education requirements.

How long does it take to get approved for independent study?

You may expect the approval process alone to take as many as eight weeks at some schools.

What is Study.com?

To help you build your syllabus and successfully achieve your goals, Study.com offers a variety of resources, which include: Textbook substitutes and self-paced online courses in dozens of subjects, including business, math, social science, science, humanities, history, English, computer science, psychology, and foreign languages.

What is independent study?

Independent study is a viable alternative for students who wish to study a topic that is not covered by the current course listings. Motivated students with an interest in a specific subject can consult professors and design their own programs.

Why is independent study important?

Independent study offers an outlet for gifted students to both pursue their own interests and remain engaged academically. Whereas an easy curriculum may prove boring, a more challenging and personalized program can help keep a gifted candidate focused on their studies.

Why do people study independently?

One of the most common reasons for independent study is a lack of available time, especially for college or nontraditional students. If you are employed, a parent, or simply extremely busy, taking courses outside the classroom is a convenient and effective way to complete coursework at your own pace and location.

What is an online course?

Online Courses. Online courses are extremely similar to paper-based courses, with the obvious exception being the means of delivery. Using an online portal provided by the school, students have access to all pertinent class materials, including readings, pre-recorded lectures, and discussion forums.

Is traditional study a viable option?

In select academic cases, traditional study is simply not a viable option for some students. Those who find their needs are not being met in the classroom can instead look into an independent study program, which offers a much greater degree of flexibility and customization.

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