The Polytechnic uses student-centred approaches, primarily problem- and project-based learning.
The Polytechnic’s Programmes and courses use a blended learning approach that includes face-to-face classroom-based learning, online supported delivery (e.g. Moodle, Big Blue Button, Microsoft Teams), problem- and project-based learning, job placement, internships, individual, and group work. Tutors develop lessons so students are engaged in the learning process and are encouraged to ask questions and use student-centred learning strategies. The Polytechnic endeavors to create an atmosphere in the classroom where everyone is equal and can express their learning and opinions about the subject, and share their knowledge, while tutors facilitate and guide the learning. An emphasis is placed on relevant authentic practical projects in all years of the bachelor Programmes.
Bahrain Polytechnic’s mission is to prepare its graduates to be work ready and adapt the economic dynamics of the local, regional and international market. In consultation with Bahrain’s industry partners, the first employability framework was developed in 2010 which consist of 8 employability skills (communication, teamwork, problem solving, planning & organization, learning, initiative & enterprise, self-management & finally technology).
In 2016, the new employability framework was established to highlight two systems adopted by the institution: the learning opportunities and the assurance of learning. Both systems are learner centered based on which the learner develops their knowledge skills & attributes.
The Polytechnic has specialist spaces for students to ensure they have access to the environment and equipment needed in their learning experience, such as the ICT innovation lab. Work-integrated learning is another important aspect of education that Bahrain Polytechnic offers in cooperation with local industry and business organisations, who contribute to the students learning through:
The Polytechnic’s grading system, is governed by the Results and Reporting Policy. Grade Point Values (GPV) and the Grade Point Average (GPA) are given on a scale from 0.00 to 4.00.
Assessments at Bahrain Polytechnic are governed by the Assessment and Moderation Policy and the Results and Reporting Policy. All Policies can be found here.
Learning at the Polytechnic is supported by a range of activities. Tutors and Academic staff are available to assist students in their learning. Academic Staff and Programme Managers provide Academic Advising, and every student is assigned a Mentor, to support and encourage the student in their academic and personal journey. The Polytechnic library has a range of resources to support learning, and the Library Learning Centre and English Writing Centre offer drop in and structured learning support.
Curriculum Development
The Curriculum Development unit by Bahrain Polytechnic has been designed to provide graduates with the attitude, knowledge and skills that will make them work ready. The curriculum is offered using the Problem Based Learning (PBL) approach, the provision of Work Integrated Learning and the integration of Employability Skills across the curriculum.
The Curriculum development unit mainly provides the following services to Bahrain Polytechnic:
- Co-ordinating the development of a student-centred curriculum comprised of internationally recognised and accredited courses, programmes and qualifications
- Co-ordinating the development of effective assessment and moderation practices
- Developing and maintaining effective relationships with external and internal standard setting bodies and committees
- Developing and reviewing curriculum related policies
Work Integrated Learning
As one of the Kingdom’s key education reform projects, designed to deliver work ready graduates, it is essential that Bahrain Polytechnic develops strong productive alliances with all key stakeholders, as the Polytechnic begin this journey to better meet local and regional labour market needs, as partners. The learning environment is conducive to expanding the student experiences and knowledge through formal and informal learning. A key factor in the achievement of high levels of academic success for the Polytechnic students will be the contribution to their learning provided by a well-developed and challenging experiential/workplace programme, which complements their classroom learning. Work integrated learning is an important aspect of education that Bahrain Polytechnic offers. The work integrated learning consists of the following elements which contribute towards intensifying students’ learning:
Student Work Placement
Bahrain Polytechnic appreciates organisations’ role and participation in providing work placements opportunities for our students’ employability skills development. This will ensure that Bahrain Polytechnic’s students are trained and developed in line with market needs locally and regionally. With such sincere support from these organisations, Bahrain Polytechnic can bring about and create leadership in education innovation. The programmes offered at Bahrain Polytechnic, which are all designed to give students maximum exposure to real workplace experiences and consequently develop their employability skills so that, on reaching graduation, they are truly work ready. Students must complete certain numbers of days of work placement in the industry during their four year degree programme. The completion of the work placement days during the degree period is a compulsory component of the degree. At the conclusion of all work placement days, the students will be eligible to graduate.
Student Industry Project
Bahrain Polytechnic students participate in projects and research opportunities with the industry and business establishments. This will ensure that students/staff are fully aware and involved in real-life projects and research cases with the industry and business communities, which will be of mutual benefit to both students/staff and the community. Students undertake projects directly related to their area of specialization, and present projects’ results to these industry and business officials at the end of the semester. This will come in the form of scheduled presentations, where both faculty heads and industry officials can attend and provide feedback. These projects provide comprehensive learning experience for students and the opportunity to practice their technical skills while developing their interpersonal skills. Learn more about Student Industry Projects in Business, International Logistics, Engineering, Information and Communications Technology, Visual Design and Web Media
Student Industrial Visits
Bahrain Polytechnic continuously develops its relationship with major industry and business communities in the Kingdom of Bahrain in order to achieve its goal of producing work-ready graduates to meet local and regional labour market needs. Regular industrial visits to different companies and businesses are arranged for students accompanied by staff in order to familiarize them about the work environment and processes, market and technology trends, safety and security measures, rules and regulations, facilities and logistic, and so on. This engagement will develop work ready students who can relate to these industries and business communities.
Guest Speakers
Bahrain Polytechnic was established in order to produce graduates who will be work ready and increasingly competitive in local and global labour market. One of the methods used by the Polytechnic to educate students about labour market information, business and technology trends, economic drivers and changes is to invite guest speakers from business and industry to give presentations to students. Guest speakers from different business and industry disciplines are regularly invited to give speeches and presentations to students and staff in order to share and pass on their field knowledge and experience to the audience at Bahrain Polytechnic. Bahrain Polytechnic believe it is vital to have input from business and industry into its programmes to ensure that graduates have the appropriate knowledge and skills to meet the needs of employers and also to enhance their life. As we all know, Bahrain Polytechnic was found to address the need for a skilled Bahraini labour force, aimed at supporting economic growth and diversification, and the main reason for having guest speakers at the Polytechnic is to provide students with opportunities to learn and to interact with professionals from the field, leading to broadening and enhancing their understanding of their purpose in life and their major role in shaping Bahrain’s economic future. Guest speakers’ presentations provide platforms for sharing lifelong experiences, thoughts, and ideas with the students leading to interactive, creative, and interesting discussions beyond the topic of the subject. Presenters highlight the importance of graduates getting experience not only at work, but also in all aspects of life, and getting experience of life after graduation, and how to prepare themselves for it. Furthermore, it is to share with students the practical side of the theory they are learning, so that they can have a better feel and understanding of their subjects and be able to relate it to real life situations.
