When designing a scheme of work, there are a number of factors that should be taken into consideration.  The following questions may help you to focus your thoughts.

THE STARTING POINTS

• Who is the course for?

• What is the likely number of participants?

• What is the overall aim of the course?

• What will participants learn?

• What skills will participants develop?

• Is there a syllabus?

• Does it lead to a qualification?

• Is it part of a larger curriculum?

• Where is it likely to be held?

• What restrictions does this impose?

• What resources are available?

• What resources can be "begged, borrowed or stolen"?

• What resources can be designed or developed?

THE INGREDIENTS

• What topics/subjects need to be included?

• Is team building necessary?

• What practical activities are integral to the course?

• What assignments have to be completed?

• What essential elements need to be included?

• Is there some theme or aspect that threads throughout the course?

• How will students be assessed?

• How will the course be evaluated?

THE RECIPE

• Which elements need to be introduced at the beginning?

• Do you need to take account of the different starting points of students?

• Which elements depend upon successful completion or understanding of other elements?

• Which elements must come at the end?

• What preparation is required (by students) to complete elements or assignments?

• How much time will students need for this?

ICING THE CAKE

• Is it possible to give students an early taste of success?

• Is there something for students to make or do?

• What additional activities might be included to broaden students' experience or understanding?

• Can students' contributions be built into the course?

• Is it possible to build in some "leisure interest"?

• Do you need to take account of holidays and festivals etc.?

Click here for definitions