So far, so good with new eight-week course offers
By Nicky BarnesStaff Writer
March 15, 2012
For the spring 2012 semester, the University began offering eight-week courses for students, which gave them the opportunity to earn full credit within a short amount of time. The first set of courses lasted from Jan. 9 until March 10.
The courses give students more availability to take other courses during the semester, and an easier way to meet the criteria required for a major.
Dr. Ken Kitts, provost and vice chancellor for the Office of Academic Affairs, lauded the implementation of the new courses.
"This has been tried with success at other universities, and because we are offering some of our most popular courses, we believe it will be successful here also," Dr. Kitts said.
Dr. Kitts also discussed the flexibility given to students through the design of the eight-week courses.
Courses vary in types and location. The courses are either online, satellite or direct lecture. They are located on campus or on satellite campuses and other off-site locations like Ft. Bragg.
Students from multiple majors jumped on the idea of being able to complete a full credit course in only eight weeks.
Mathematics education major Jory Swett enrolled in one of the courses.
"I enjoyed the class a lot. It was a lot of material for such a short period of time, and sometimes a bit overwhelming, but I'd say it was worth it," Swett said.
Other students felt the same way. Junior Mary Hunter was amazed at how fast the course went.
"It is crazy we have an exam already. I feel as if we just started. I'm glad to get it done though," Hunter said.
The variety of courses offered made them a popular option among students. Course choices included nursing, criminal justice and economics.
"I have taken some of the eight-week classes at my community college before I came here and look forward to knocking out some of them here as well," Amelia Philbrook, a transfer student, said.
The eight-week courses can add the necessary credit hours to students' schedules in order to ensure they meet the criteria to remain a full-time student, uphold their financial aid and continue in their education at UNCP.
This is especially useful when dropping and withdrawing from classes.
The eight-week classes act in the same way as Maymester, with full credit being attained in a shorter time.
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The print edition of The Pine Needle is published 14 times a year during the fall and spring semesters. Updated: Monday, March 26, 2012 © The University of North Carolina at Pembroke |
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