Many
courses offered at the Malta College of Arts Science and Technology
(MCAST) are module based. Teaching methods include both theoretical and
practical sessions in laboratories and workshops. Some of the courses
may also include statutory on the job training. Wide use of ICT is made
by teaching staff and students. MCAST has a state of the art Library
and a Learning Resource Centre in line with many similar facilities
found abroad. The centre makes extensive use of computers and IT
equipment to support student research on programmes and assignments.
These have the role of providing the means where students and staff can
learn on their own and can be guided on how to master the skills of
independent learning. The library as a necessary requirement provides
as broad and deep a range of information in all its formats and from
all sources as MCAST can afford and secondly make this information
readily available. The library also provides information literacy
services which could be as simple as clear library signage, a well
designed and presented library web-site and on-line catalogue, short
library tours to longer courses of instructions on library use.
University Tertiary Education
Courses
at the University are mainly academic in nature and are structured on
the modular (study-unit) system. Some courses leading to the
professions (e.g. education, engineering, medical and health sciences)
incorporate teaching or work placements, fieldwork, and similar
experiences within the course. Part-time courses undergraduate as well
as some postgraduate courses are often followed by students who are
already employed and probably carrying out work directly related to
their field of study or specialisation.
Methods of instruction
vary and include formal and non-formal lectures, seminars, group
projects, tutorials, practical work in laboratories or workshops,
fieldwork, depending on the type of programme of studies. Generally, a
variety of methods are adopted according to the topic being considered.
The use of communication technologies during lecturing has become the
norm. Lecturers are free to use their teaching methods and instruments.
Students are often referred to a range of reference books which they
can purchase or borrow from the extensive library.
Computerisation
of the library services has facilitated literature searching and
information retrieval. In many areas, the library offers online access
to electronic indexing services and bibliographical databases. The same
holds true of journal access. The library organises guided tours,
lectures and bibliographical guides for students and information
services help students with their research for dissertations. Reader
services include an inter-library loan and overseas photocopying
services for material unattainable locally.
The Computing
Services Centre (CSC) offers a range of facilities and services to
assist members of staff and students with their computing related
needs. Services include Internet, access to library online periodicals
and access to other University information systems. A number of
computer laboratories are available for use by students and staff at
various localities on campus. The CSC operates the video-conferencing
facilities at the University. The CSC connects together over 3,000
universities in Europe and other research communities worldwide.
The
Students Advisory Services and the Students' Counselling Services at
the University and the Information Centre at MCAST provide support to
students during their course as and when required and requested.