Intersession: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term comes from Latin roots, with 'inter' meaning 'between' and 'sessio' meaning 'a sitting' or 'meeting'.
• It evolved into its current form in English around the mid-20th century, used primarily in educational contexts.

Educational Systems

• In many schools, intersession programs help students catch up or enrich their knowledge outside the regular curriculum.
• Some universities use intersession periods for intensive courses that allow students to earn credits in a condensed time frame.
• Intersessions can also include extracurricular activities, tutoring sessions, or cultural workshops.

Cultural Practices

• Various educational institutions incorporate intersession breaks to align with cultural and seasonal events, providing a break without lengthy interruptions.
• Intersession can be a time to celebrate local festivals, providing cultural education as part of the curriculum.

Psychology

• Taking breaks or intersession periods can enhance focus and retention, helping students process information better.
• Research shows that structured breaks in learning environments can reduce stress and boost overall student well-being.

Policy Development

• Educational policymakers consider intersession programs as a strategy to help close achievement gaps among students.
• Funding for intersession activities is part of initiatives to promote equitable educational opportunities for all students.