It’s a unique representation of the student voice into arguably the most important transformation of higher education in Europe. Since 1998, the Bologna Process has been steering 46 member countries towards a European Higher Education Area defined by quality higher education that is accessible, equitable and centred firmly on the student, and where mobility and the opportunity to gain and share international experiences are an integral part of the learning process. And while the Bologna Follow-Up Group and biannual Ministerial Conferences monitor progress towards achieving the EHEA from a governmental perspective, little attention is paid to whether the Process is delivering from a ‘user’ (student) perspective. In this context, ESU’s Bologna With Student Eyes is a vital contribution to the implementation of the Bologna reforms. Funded by the European Commission, it enables policy-makers to see the extent of changes taking place on the ground from the perspective of those who know what is taking place there.
With the next Ministerial at Leuven/Louvain-la-Neuve fast approaching at the end of April, it will soon be time to launch Bologna With Student Eyes 2009. Produced through a survey of nearly 50 National Unions of Students, BWSE 2009 will present a comprehensive picture of real progress in terms of the social dimension (socio-economic conditions, diversity and access, student finance etc), student participation and student rights, recognition of prior learning, research and doctoral studies, mobility and quality assurance. Above all, it will provide a clear illustration of whether the statements made by Ministers are, indeed, reflected in the student experience on the ground.
Look out for a full report on the BWSE findings in the next edition of The Student Voice.
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