Radboud University is participating in the national pilot 'A smarter academic year', in which universities and colleges are examining the study load and workload of their academic years. The national pilot is an initiative following a study by The Young Academy. That study showed that an academi year in the Netherlands lasts on average up to 9 weeks longer than in other countries within the European Union. As a result, the work and study load is relatively high and time for educational innovation and research is limited.
The national pilot is designed to reduce faculty and student workload and increase studyability. The pilots will create space for other activities and provide more rest during the academic year. Teachers can thus focus more on research and innovating teaching, and taking training and courses. Students are given more flexibility regarding the timing and pace of their studies and assessments. Moreover, more time is available for extra curricular activities, internships, exchange programmes and a better balance between study, (secondary) job and private life.
Between 2023 and 2026, institutions can participate in the pilot with a maximum of three programs and/or organizational units. Each faculty or institution has the freedom to decide for themselves what measures can reduce workload.
