The Cyclical Learning Model is a way of organizing focused study, officially introduced in Tajikistan’s higher education system (Decision of the Ministry of Education and Science, September 29, 2023, No. 13/3).

At the Polytechnic Institute of the Tajik Technical University named after academician M.S. Osimi in Khujand, the cyclical learning system has been applied since its establishment.

Essence of the cyclical learning model:

• Parallel study of no more than two subjects.
• During one cycle, students study 1 or 2 subjects, pass the exam, and then move to the next cycle.
• Thus, subjects are studied sequentially within a semester.

Cycle structure:

• One semester consists of 5 cycles.
• In each cycle, a student completes 6 credits.
• Most bachelor-level courses are worth 6 or 3 credits (some 2 or 4).
• Therefore, in each cycle students usually study either 1 subject (6 credits) or 2 subjects (3+3 credits or 4+2 credits).
• One cycle lasts 22 days: 16 study days, 2 days for rating summaries, 4 preparation days, and a final exam.

Advantages of the cyclical learning model:

• Concentration of teachers’ and students’ attention on mastering one or two subjects.
• More efficient use of library resources (students focus on materials for one subject per cycle).
• Opportunity to improve teaching quality of a subject from cycle to cycle.
• Reduced workload for the testing center by holding exams step by step instead of at the end of the semester.
• Greater opportunity to invite lecturers from other cities or countries for shorter periods.
• Possibility for teachers, especially young ones, to engage in professional development or scientific trips during free cycles.
• Efficient use of laboratories and classrooms.
• Ability to update laboratory equipment for the next cycle depending on the subject.
• Direct supervision of all classes by the head of department and dean’s office staff.

Direct monitoring of student attendance and prevention of undesirable incidents.