Teaching at the Speed of Light: Tips on Teaching an Intensive Semester

This study reviews the intensive semester (short semester) in an information systems course. The intensive semester is compared with the traditional length semester. Past research in the intensive semester teaching approach is cited for advantages and disadvantages of the approach. The main finding in past research is that there is higher concentration and focused learning, better rapport resulting in a higher chance of in-depth discussion and active learning. The author uses his experience in an introductory IS course in both the intensive semester format and the traditional length semester to give tips that will help future instructors who will be teaching using the intensive semester format.