ISMs may be combined with other types of independent learning provided these are mandatory, formally validated components of the award to be undertaken by all students on the programme e.g. dissertations or project modules, formal WBL modules. Therefore, both an ISM and a dissertation module (or equivalent) may be studied within an award, provided there is sufficient distinction between them. Similarly, ISMs may be undertaken in combination with teaching, clinical or professional placement periods, where these are a mandatory, formally validated component of an award, or with other placement or work based/work experience components within a formally validated sandwich award. However, a student cannot undertake an ISM in addition to credit being sought for other forms of ad hoc, individually designed and negotiated learning where this would occur at the same level within an award.