námskrá

Námskrá is the formal plan that describes what will be taught in a course or program, and how learning will be assessed. In Icelandic education, it functions similarly to a curriculum document and may be used at levels ranging from schools to higher education and vocational programs. A námskrá outlines the intended learning outcomes, the subjects or modules to be covered, and the overall structure and duration of the instruction.

A typical námskrá includes several core elements. These usually comprise the intended competences or learning outcomes, the content and sequence of topics, the distribution of study time or credits, and the methods and criteria for assessment. It may also specify prerequisites, required resources, teaching approaches, and timelines for completion. The document serves as a guide for teachers and students and as a basis for program evaluation and accreditation.

The primary purpose of a námskrá is to ensure coherence and transparency in what is taught and how learning is measured. It helps align teaching with national standards and program goals, supports planning and resource allocation, and facilitates student guidance and progression tracking. Námskrá is typically reviewed and updated periodically to reflect changes in knowledge, pedagogy, and policy.

In relation to other terms, a námskrá is broader than a syllabus, which often details weekly topics and specific assessments, while the námskrá sets the overall aims, structure, and assessment framework for a course or program.