Understanding Course Modules: How Do They Work?
The Trimester Programme offers traditional, academic training in the fine arts of drawing and painting. This type of education is sequential, which means that students are required to achieve technical proficiency in foundational skills before advancing to more complex areas of study. Think of it like learning a new language - if you are not able to pass an exam at A2 level, then you do not move on to B1.
To provide this structure, each Trimester Course is broken down into a number of 'Modules.' Modules are distinct segments of the curriculum that take at least one trimester to complete, and become progressively more difficult. It is not a guarantee that you will move on from one module to the next each term: your work will be evaluated, and if you do not pass the module on your first try, then it will take more than one trimester to complete. Every trimester, a mix of students in all different modules of each course are studying together.
The course guide provides a comprehensive overview of each course syllabus and their respective modules.
When you pass a module in any course, you earn a Certificate of Completion from DARA. If you wish to earn an officially recognised post-initial HBO diploma, then there are specific certificates that you must earn. You can read more about the diplomas we currently offer, and the relevant certificates you need to earn to one, here.
To provide this structure, each Trimester Course is broken down into a number of 'Modules.' Modules are distinct segments of the curriculum that take at least one trimester to complete, and become progressively more difficult. It is not a guarantee that you will move on from one module to the next each term: your work will be evaluated, and if you do not pass the module on your first try, then it will take more than one trimester to complete. Every trimester, a mix of students in all different modules of each course are studying together.
The course guide provides a comprehensive overview of each course syllabus and their respective modules.
When you pass a module in any course, you earn a Certificate of Completion from DARA. If you wish to earn an officially recognised post-initial HBO diploma, then there are specific certificates that you must earn. You can read more about the diplomas we currently offer, and the relevant certificates you need to earn to one, here.
How long does each module take?
Each module takes a minimum of one trimester to complete. It will take longer if you do not pass it in one attempt.
It is necessary that you have completed all required assignments, demonstrated a sufficient understanding of the concepts taught in class, and that your work achieves an acceptable standard of technical skill. If your work does not meet this standard, then you do not pass.
Check the course guide for more information about course modules and passing criteria >
It is necessary that you have completed all required assignments, demonstrated a sufficient understanding of the concepts taught in class, and that your work achieves an acceptable standard of technical skill. If your work does not meet this standard, then you do not pass.
Check the course guide for more information about course modules and passing criteria >
If I return for another trimester, does that mean I move to the next module?
No, not necessarily. Everyone learns at a different pace, so you do not automatically move from one module to the next. Your work must meet all the standards in place required to pass one module before you move on to the next one.
At the end of each trimester, your instructor will conduct a final evaluation with you regarding your coursework. If you pass, then you receive a Certificate of Completion for that module. If you did not pass, he or she will discuss the areas that need to be developed further, and advise the appropriate next steps.
At the end of each trimester, your instructor will conduct a final evaluation with you regarding your coursework. If you pass, then you receive a Certificate of Completion for that module. If you did not pass, he or she will discuss the areas that need to be developed further, and advise the appropriate next steps.
What happens if I don't pass the module at the end of the trimester?
You do not earn a Certificate of Completion. Your instructor will conduct a final evaluation at the end of the term, and depending on your progress, he or she will recommend the following:
1) If you are on the right track, but just need more time, your instructor may recommend returning to repeat the course module in the next trimester. This does not necessarily mean that you will be held back for the entire trimester. Your instructor can move you to the next module mid-term if you demonstrate sufficient readiness.
2) Alternately, it may be the case that you are in a course that is too high in difficulty for your present level of skill. In this case, repeating the module again is not the best option. Your instructor may recommend you to enrol in a lower-tier course in the next trimester, so that you can develop any fundamental technical skills needed.
1) If you are on the right track, but just need more time, your instructor may recommend returning to repeat the course module in the next trimester. This does not necessarily mean that you will be held back for the entire trimester. Your instructor can move you to the next module mid-term if you demonstrate sufficient readiness.
2) Alternately, it may be the case that you are in a course that is too high in difficulty for your present level of skill. In this case, repeating the module again is not the best option. Your instructor may recommend you to enrol in a lower-tier course in the next trimester, so that you can develop any fundamental technical skills needed.
What do I need to do to pass a module / how do I know if I am on track?
Please refer to your course syllabus for detailed information about the assignments which must be completed, and criteria that must be met, in order to pass. You must also maintain an attendance rate of at least 80% during the trimester. This information is also discussed in class at the start of every trimester.
If you are unsure about whether you are on track to pass by the end of the term, it is best to check in with your instructor. If you are not on track, he or she may recommend homework assignments or other extracurricular studies to bring your work up to par.
If you are unsure about whether you are on track to pass by the end of the term, it is best to check in with your instructor. If you are not on track, he or she may recommend homework assignments or other extracurricular studies to bring your work up to par.
When I enrol in a course, can I pick the module I want to be in?
No, all incoming students start in Module 1. If you have had relevant training in another classical school, and your work demonstrates a high level of technical achievement, your instructor may move you ahead at his or her discretion.
If I am going to start a new course and enter Module 1, do I need to start during the Fall Trimester?
No, you can start at the beginning of any trimester. Your classmates will likely be a mix of students in different modules, and may be working on different assignments than you. We feel this integrated environment is highly beneficial for new students.
I am applying to receive funding for this course, and I need to present a certificate to the funding organisation. How does this work, if I didn't pass the module?
If you maintained an attendance rate of 80% or higher during the trimester, then DARA can provide a document which certifies that you participated in the course for the full term. This is not a Certificate of Completion, and does not mean that you skip to the next module if you return for further study.
Is a Certificate of Completion an officially recognised document?
No, the Certificate of Completion that you earn when you complete a course module is not an official document.
However, if you are seeking to earn a post-initial HBO diploma from DARA, then you are obliged to earn specific certificates by completing certain course modules. Diplomas granted by DARA are officially recognised documents.
However, if you are seeking to earn a post-initial HBO diploma from DARA, then you are obliged to earn specific certificates by completing certain course modules. Diplomas granted by DARA are officially recognised documents.
I find the idea of having my work evaluated to be unpleasant, and I am just drawing / painting to enjoy myself. Can I participate without all the modules, assessments, certificates, etc.?
No, the Trimester Programme is an accredited higher education programme intended for artists seeking professional development within a structured academic framework. As part of the so-called "atelier movement," this is a unique study programme in the Netherlands that teaches a skill-based, classical education; evaluation of technical skills is a critical aspect. For artists who are looking for a casual environment to draw or paint, other courses are more suited to fit your needs.
We instead invite you to join our Workshops or Summer Bootcamps, where participation is open to everyone and there are no assessments of any kind. There are a wide variety of drawing and painting courses offered each year, and artists of all levels, ages, from the Netherlands and abroad, are regularly participating. You can also drop in to join us for open model sketching sessions, where you can draw or paint from the model in any manner you like. We would love to see you there!
We instead invite you to join our Workshops or Summer Bootcamps, where participation is open to everyone and there are no assessments of any kind. There are a wide variety of drawing and painting courses offered each year, and artists of all levels, ages, from the Netherlands and abroad, are regularly participating. You can also drop in to join us for open model sketching sessions, where you can draw or paint from the model in any manner you like. We would love to see you there!
DUTCH ATELIER OF REALIST ART
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