module
MAH-djool
/ˈmɑː.dʒuːl/
A self-contained unit or section of an educational course covering a single subject or theme.
Emphasizes standardized, independent units that fit into a larger curriculum structure.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'modulus' (a small measure). In classical architecture, a module was the standard length used to size columns. NASA adopted it for spacecraft sections, and educators used it for course design.
Word relationships
- unit: General academic term that may lack the standardized digital design of a module.
- segment: Focuses on temporal division rather than complete thematic structure.
Commonly confused with
- curriculum: A curriculum encompasses an entire educational program; a module is one specific segment.
Word family
- modular (adjective): Constructed with standardized units
- modularity (noun): Degree to which a system's components may be separated
Collocations
- learning module
- training module
- complete a module
Example sentences
- "Module three covers online research ethics and requires a written forum response." Course Planning
Memory hook
MODULE = Model unit measured out step-by-step. Building block of learning.
When not to use
Do not use to describe an entire course; it is one distinct part of a whole.
Fun facts
- Apollo lunar landers were called 'Lunar Modules' because they were self-contained units detached from the main craft.
Explore more words
modular, Component, boilerplate, cell, standardized, Architecture
Also appears in
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