1. What is the School of Interdisciplinary Studies (IS)? And how is it connected to the NLM?
The Ngee Ann Learning Model (NLM) provides you with a curriculum that allows you to explore outside your chosen course of studies. The School of Interdisciplinary Studies (IS) was set up to develop and deliver the IS curriculum within your diploma course. If you are a Business student, you can explore the exciting world of biotechnology through an IS module. Conversely,if you are a student of the Life Sciences, you can take a module in Entrepreneurship. We challenge the boundaries of a traditional polytechnic education.
2. Why do I have to do IS modules?
The simple answer is simply to broaden your academic horizon. Our modules are designed to equip you with the skills to adapt, innovate, communicate and participate effectively in a dynamic social and work environment.
3. How much time will I spend on my IS modules?
The interdisciplinary component of the curriculum takes about 4 – 6 hours per week of curriculum time. As you move on to Levels 2 and 3, you can exercise more choice and flexibility in selecting interdisciplinary elective modules.
4. Are IS modules compulsory?
Your Ngee Ann learning curriculum has two parts: your discipline modules, offered within your diploma course, and a set of interdisciplinary modules, offered by the School of Interdisciplinary Studies. All modules are equally important. You have to pass all modules to graduate.
5. How are IS modules classified?
IS modules are classified into:
- Prescribed modules, which are compulsory for all students.
- General modules, which are elective modules.
- Innovation & Enterprise in Action, a compulsory second-year module.
6. What are prescribed modules?
Prescribed modules are those that are compulsory for you. There are prescribed modules for students in Year 1 and Year 3. Prescribed modules help you build a foundational set of skills. For details on the prescribed modules, see levels 1 and 3 on the menu.
7. What are general modules?
These are elective modules that offer you a chance to design a course of study that interests you most. In Year 2 and 3, you can pick and choose from a menu with a spread of 5 categories comprising Communication, Life Skills, Entrepreneurship, Media & the Arts, and Science & Technology.
8. What is the Innovation & Enterprise in Action module?
The Innovation & Enterprise in Action module is a compulsory module in Year 2. The aim of this module is to nurture your innovativeness and make you more enterprising through experiential learning. You will work in teams on real issues, problems or innovations in any of the following pathways: Community, Entrepreneurship, Events, Health & Lifestyle and Environment.
9. Are IS modules assessed?
All IS modules are assessed on a continuous assessment basis. All IS modules carry credits needed to graduate.
10. What happens if I fail IS modules?
For level 1, students have to repeat the failed modules. For levels 2 and 3 students have to repeat the failed module or replace the failed module with a new one from the same category.
11. Are IS modules considered for NP Awards and graduation?
Yes. Performance in IS modules will be taken into account for both.
12. Where do I go to find out more about IS modules?
Please visit our website at http://www.np.edu.sg/is .Alternatively, you can visit the IS office in Block 53, Level 05 and/ or call Tel: 6460 8366/Fax: 6462 5631.
13. I have a distinction in English Language. Do I have to do the Communication modules?Yes, all students must do the Communication modules. A solid knowledge of English would help you in the area of communication. However, in these modules you will not study the English language per se. Instead, you will learn valuable skills such as delivering presentations and managing interviews.
In the first year, you will be equipped with foundational skills for clear written and oral discourse. In the subsequent years, you get to choose from varied subjects such as small group communication dynamics, or an awareness of contemporary issues, to name but a few. You can also choose to study foreign languages such as French, German, Japanese, or Spanish.
14. How does the enrolment system work?
For Level 2 and 3 IS modules, you can use our web enrolment system to enrol for the modules you want to do under the relevant category. To web enrol, you can log on to https://npalstudent.np.edu.sg For the latest information, please check the Web Enrolment Announcement on the Student Homepage at http://www.np.edu.sg/studenthome.html. Before the actual web enrolment, a briefing will be conducted to acquaint students with the range of modules offered.