Guidelines for Independent Study Contract

The Independent Study Contract is a statement of bilateral obligations wherein the instructor agrees to provide direction and assistance, and the student agrees to complete stated learning activities in order to achieve objectives, which have been mutually agreed upon.

These guidelines are for use with departmental Independent Studies that permit variable allocation of 1 to 6 credits and may include a practicum, if desired. The Independent Study Learning Contract (LC) provides maximum feasibility and at the same time assures accountability for all concerned. University guidelines are followed for time expectations. For example, a 3-credit LC would be the equivalent of 3 class hours per week (or 42 hours per semester) plus approximately 9 hours of preparation per week (or 126 hours per semester).

Assumptions

  • The student has had sufficient background in the subject to be able to establish objectives that are pertinent and relevant to the chosen area.
  • Both student and instructor are willing and able to accept the necessary responsibility and commitment, which can be considerable.
  • There is coherence in the Learning Contract in that it is related not only to prior learning but also to future possibilities for study.
  • It is possible to pursue the subject under study to the degree of complexity and level of intensity warranted.
  • The terms of the LC are clearly understood by all parties concerned, are reasonable in scope and have a realistic timetable.
  • Any LC that proposes research involving the participation of human subjects must be approved by the Elaine Marieb College of Nursing Committee on Scholarship and Human Subjects Review.
  • The LC can be renegotiated if the situation warrants.

Process

  • The student brings to the instructor a written statement of the objectives to be attained and a brief description of the learning activities believed to assure the attainment of the objectives.
  • The instructor aids in the refinement of the statement of objectives to assure that they will meet individual learning needs and involve adequate study of the subject.
  • Both student and instructor identify appropriate and available learning resources.
  • If a practicum is involved, the instructor is responsible for the Letter of Agreement with the cooperating agency in accordance with policy and procedure.
  • The learning activities and the use of selected learning resources are spelled out and their relationship to the objectives are made explicit.
  • The criteria for evaluation and the evidence upon which evaluation is to be based are established. It should be clear how, by whom, when and on the basis of what evidence evaluation will be carried out.
  • A written agreement is completed and signed by the student and the instructor with copies retained by each and a copy filed in the student’s academic folder.