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modular

MOD-yoo-ler /ˈmɒd.jʊ.lər/

adjectiveC1GRETOEFL

academictechnical

Employing or involving modules as a basis of design or construction; constructed in self-contained units.

Implies flexibility and reconfigurability; lessons or units can be swapped, stacked, or completed independently.

The story behind the word. From Latin 'modulus', diminutive of 'modus' (measure). It entered architectural and engineering terminology to describe standard unit dimensions before spreading to modern software and curriculum development.

Word relationships

segmental: Segmental simply implies divided into parts, whereas modular implies parts that can be rearranged or interchanged independently.
unit-based: Unit-based is descriptive, whereas modular is the technical design term.

monolithic: Monolithic describes a massive, unbroken single structure that cannot be separated into parts.
integrated: Integrated components are fused together and cannot be easily separated.

Commonly confused with

mode: Mode is a way of operating, while modular refers to flexible structural units.

Word family

module (noun): An independent unit that can be used to construct a complex structure.
modularity (noun): The degree to which a system's components may be separated and recombined.

Collocations

modular curriculum
modular architecture
modular design
modular course

Idioms & expressions

building blocks

Example sentences

"The curriculum uses a modular structure, allowing families to select only the units that match their learning goals." Curriculum Structure

Memory hook

MODULAR components fit together like Lego modules. Lego-style learning units.

When not to use

Do not use for continuous, non-divisible linear processes that cannot be separated into parts.

Fun facts

Modular education systems allow university students to stack micro-credentials into full master's degrees over years.