Vision on education
With the Learning@LeidenUniversity vision, Leiden University leads the way in education, training students to become academic professionals and engaged citizens. Here you will find information on the eight ambitions that form the basis of the curriculum, as well as answers to questions such as: How do I integrate research into my teaching? How do I encourage activating education? And how do I prepare students for the labour market?
Integration of research and teaching
Research is at the core of every study programme; we encourage students to adopt an inquisitive attitude. With methods such as ‘Perspective-based inquiry learning’ (developed by Fred Janssen), students learn to get a grip on complex issues. In this way, they become active participants in the academic world rather than mere spectators.
Activating teaching and learning
Students learn best when they are actively involved and apply the material directly. By making efficient use of contact hours and stimulating interaction, for example, with various interaction tools, knowledge is retained better. This approach requires an educational design in which the student is central and takes responsibility for their own learning process.
Flexible learning pathways
To align with the personal ambitions and talents of students, we offer flexible learning paths. In consultation with the lecturer, the student can make choices that shape their study path, fitting their own learning goals. This customisation allows students to take more control over their own development and career.
Skills
An academic professional needs more than just subject knowledge; applying insights requires specific competencies. The university has defined 13 transferable skills that prepare students for their role within and outside academia. This set of skills equips them to function as critical citizens and professionals.
Employability enhancement
We prepare students for a dynamic labour market that demands flexibility, resilience, and adaptability. With the help of the ‘Labour Market Preparation Framework’, programmes can create a targeted offer that eases the transition to work. This allows students to start orienting themselves towards their future professional lives during their studies.
Engagement with society
Our education is directly connected to society; students learn about, for, in, and with society. Through ‘service learning’, for example, they work on current societal issues in collaboration with external partners. Thus, they develop the awareness and skills to contribute to a better world.
Application of technology
We utilise technological innovations to make education more interactive and effective. Blended learning, the thoughtful mix of online and on-campus education, is the starting point here to enrich the learning experience. Lecturers deploy digital tools purposefully to align with student needs and developments in the field.
Internationalisation and diversity
In our inclusive educational community, we bring diverse perspectives together and educate students to be global citizens. We focus on intercultural skills and global issues, often within an international classroom. An environment where everyone feels welcome and valued brings out the best in our students.