The project envisions the implementation of an innovative model of education based on projects designed by students enrolled at higher education institutions of different types. This pilot run is intended as a testing ground for a possible full-scale introduction.
The NCBR website reads: ‘the key premise underpinning the personalized education model advanced in the Universities of the Future is the student as an expert in his or her own development. (...) In order for the student to achieve the expected learner’s autonomy, he or she should be provided with individually tailored micro courses, subject and business mentors’ guidance, and opportunities to solve real technological and/or social challenges. For the sake of social innovation, NCBR was looking for universities eager to take up the challenge to try and shift the paradigm from conveying knowledge to following students' interests’.
The Universities of the Future is co-funded by the European Union under Priority Axis V of the Social Innovation Program under the European Funds for Social Development (FERS)