ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at the diversification of the college calendar and the move toward intensive terms. It discusses three types of new degree structures: accelerated degrees, external degrees, and student-designed programs. The chapter presents examples of innovations in two types of structural variables: calendar modifications and new degree programs. Innovations in calendar and degree programs are usually intended to increase the time, space, and decision options open to students. The critical factor in evaluating any calendar arrangement is the extent to which its scheduling options offer flexibility, for both time and space flexibility are important in meeting educational goals. Designing a calendar involves the treatment of two variables: courses and terms. A course is a predetermined set of learning experiences leading to the award of credit or some other type of certification. The traditional, and predominant, semester, quarter, and trimester calendars are concurrent.
