Applying Asymmetric Theory to Optimise Instructional, Assessment, and Administrative Designs of Intensive English Programmes

Abstract

Asymmetric Theory emphasizes optimisation, efficiency, and economy by harnessing the transformative power of asymmetry. It offers practical and functional solutions to some complex daily and scientific problems through the application of multilayered asymmetric thinking. The process begins with the careful identification of the most dominant factors influencing the success of the solutions to the problems, ultimately leading to the creation of a main key to successand sub keys to success attached to it. The key tosuccess serves as a guide for its creator as it highlights which factors should be controlled and which should be prioritised over the others. As a result, Asymmetric Theory introduces a structured strategy-oriented approach to problem-solving. This chapter begins by highlighting the importance of Intensive English Programmes (IEPs) for English-medium universities. Then, it introduces the core principles of Asymmetric Theory. Building on these principles, a main key to success is created for the programme development challenge of IEPs followed by the creation of sub keys for optimising their instructional, assessment, and administrative designs. These steps are demonstrated using a think-aloud protocol. Ultimately, this chapter presents how the instructional, assessment, and administrative designs of an educational programme can be effectively optimised through the lens of Asymmetric Theory using IEPs as a comprehensive example. © 2025 The Editor(s) (if applicable) and The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.