MOD Schedule

The new schedule at Duchesne

Beginning in the fall of 2020, Duchesne Academy introduced a six-term modular schedule — the "MOD" schedule. This modular system allows Duchesne to lead the way in providing a transformational 21st century education.

In Middle and Upper School, the schedule shifted from two semesters per school year to six terms per school year. Each term, or "MOD," is 29 or 30 days and students take in four to five courses during each MOF. The Lower School has an eight-day rotation for the specials in order to increase time in learning in the homerooms.

 


Why Are We Doing This?

Education for the 21st Century

Life in the 21st-century is radically different than it was 100 years ago, yet our educational system hasn't changed. In order to best educate our children to thrive in 21st century economies, we need to rethink how we're teaching and respond to developments in the globalized world.

Backed by Research

The MOD schedule at Duchesne was devised after thorough examination of research that documents how students best learn. The following represents the culmination of research on schedules and best practices as identified by Independent School Management, NAIS, Learning & the Brain, ASCD, TABS, and others. For each category, we have identified a body of supporting research:

Achieving Strategic Imperatives, Goals & Criteria, and Accreditation Recommendations

The MOD schedule allows Duchesne to achieve the imperatives laid out in the Envision 2022 Strategic Plan, as well as meet the recommendations given by the ISAS and TCCBED accreditations. Additionally, the MOD schedule allows Duchesne to more fully live out the Sacred Heart Goals and Criteria.

The following is the slide deck that was presented at campus meetings to announce the mod schedule.


What Does It Entail?

Terminology

  • Term = MOD
  • Class period = Bin
    • 1 Bin = 1 credit
    • 3 Bins = 3 credits = 1 full course
    • 0 Bin = ½ credit

Example Schedules

Project-Based Learning

The MOD schedule allows Duchesne to expand the project-based learning opportunities in all grade levels. Watch this video to learn more about project-based learning and why it's critical to 21st century learners:

 



Outcomes

Overall Outcomes

  • More emphasis on skill-based curriculum and academic programs
  • Students who are critical thinkers and problem solvers
  • Increased depth of exploration and discovery in each course
  • Highly engaged students who develop a life-long love of learning
  • More authentic and immersive social awareness experiences
  • Slower pace of school day and workload to reduce stress and anxiety
  • More time for extra-curricular activities and family life
  • Stronger relationships between teachers and students
  • Opportunity for global experiences

 

Frequently Asked Questions

The Basics of a MOD Schedule

 

Homework, Exams, and Time Management

Teaching and Learning

Graduation Requirements, AP Courses, and College Entrance

Other Considerations

"Education must be concerned not only with studies, but also with whatever may be required for the right ordering of life and requirements of cultivated society."

— St. Madeline Sophie Barat