These experiences impart a broader understanding of the world and how one s gifts and knowledge could best be applied to the needs in different nations. The mobility of U of N students also permits friendships among people of different nationalities, creating networks of international exchange, simply through relationships. The strong emphasis placed on relationships between students and staff and on small groups and student activities provides an atmosphere of security for students even when they arrive at a new location in the midst of a different culture. Tutors or school instructors help students feel at ease with the course content and the culture. The residency requirements for a degree help to maintain student-staff relationships and accountability for a longer period at one location.
Modules start with a presentation of overall objectives, overview and applications.
Principles and specific details are introduced as needed to build a working knowledge and ability in the subject area. This has proven to be highly motivational for students because they relate the basic information to the overall functional applications and purposes for attending the course. Comparing this modular system with a typical university programme, one modular course or term at the U of N is the equivalent of about four university courses in one subject area. There are typically twenty-five or more contact hours with school staff each week. A student may expect to spend at least 50 hours per week in course-related activities such as classes, field assignments, small groups and individual study.