Studying on the Block Plan means that you don't divide your time among different subjects but can give each course your complete attention. Because you don't have to juggle several different classes, you'll find yourself immersed in your daily exploration of economics, or physics, or creative writing. You'll concentrate on one topic, one book, one experiment, searching for deeper understanding rather than spreading your time and energy across many subjects. With an average of 15 students and a limit of 25 for virtually all courses, these sessions are most often conducted as seminars which rely on student participation and discussion. Since students don't have to rush off to another class, a heated debate is able to continue to its logical conclusion and students can examine ideas thoroughly.
Professors can lecture, then ask for questions and comments.
Students can give individual or group presentations. Together, students and faculty members can engage in extensive dialogue and intensive learning without having to glance at the clock. In the afternoon, science students usually reconvene to work in the laboratories and test the theories they've read about and discussed. In a studio art class, students return to the studios to absorb themselves in their drawing, sculpting, or painting. Language courses might have formal class again to practice speaking skills, or they might venture to the language lab to use the interactive video equipment.