Philosophy of Learning
Training at Calvary University is based on the Objective Directed Learning (ODL) system. The aim of ODL is academic learning combined with skills training. A skill is defined as: the ability, coming from one's knowledge, practice, and aptitude to perform a work-related task.
A skill is therefore not mere understanding. The learner must go beyond understanding to the practical application of knowledge in order to achieve a job-related task. In the context of business management, health care, communication, or ministry, this boils down to things such as:
- Performing a function
- Rendering a service
- Demonstrating a competency
A set of knowledge-based skills required for a specific career is known as a competency and a qualification is the certification of such a competency. This requires continuous assessment in the form of self-evaluations, group evaluations, completion of assignments, demonstration in the use of technical apparatus, oral and written examinations, etc.
The advantages of Objective Directed Learning are the following:
- The emphasis is on the practical use and application of knowledge
- The skills training is job specific
- The learner can often work at his/her own pace
- Candidates may receive credits for informal and nonformal learning and work experience through RPL
- Training includes self development of the person since the person is trained in the development of skills, many times in a Christian environment
- Rote learning and mastering of content without understanding are no longer a burden.
- The final examination system is replaced by continuous assessment. This does away with the scare of final exams.