The above quote from the Radboud University Campus Strategy clearly expresses the vision of a vibrant campus. To achieve this, the Campus Life program was developed. The aim of this program is to create a vibrant, connected community on the Radboud campus.
Campus Life research
What is a vibrant campus and how do people want to experience that liveliness? To answer these questions, Julie Hornix (development manager at Campus Development) conducted Campus Life research. Julie: “What campus users want and expect from a vibrant campus is the most important information we can collect for its development. After all, the intention of Campus Life is to build something that really meets the needs. If we invest time and money in things that no one wants, we are completely missing the point.”
Research results
The Campus Life research consisted of conversations with employees, focus groups with students and various 'sticky moments' where campus users could spontaneously give their input. Julie: “Contrary to what was expected before the program, Campus Life does not require adding elements to enliven the campus. The biggest insight from the research is that people would like to see us (re)appreciating existing campus life! It turned out that people who are already active on campus know and appreciate the many activities. The crux of the matter is that people who are less active do not know how to find active campus life.”
What next?
To revalue campus life, Julie will now focus on three development directions, seeking collaboration with associated divisions and departments.
- Organization: a clear, welcoming organization with visible communication and an accessible offer.
- Food & Beverage: explore how Campus Life can bring extra value.
- Squares: furnish pleasantly and liven them up
According to the principles of placemaking (transforming a place into a meaningful place), the idea is to redesign existing places on the Radboud campus in a way that people like to be there.
