Quality Pact for Teaching: Success in the federal-state programme

A total of 111 universities across Germany have been selected to receive around 600 million euros by 2016 to improve study conditions and teaching quality. Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg took part in the selection process with its "Pro-MINT-us" programme. The aim of this programme is to promote STEM skills - i.e. skills in the subjects of mathematics, computer science, natural sciences and technology - and to improve study skills in the introductory phase of studies.

A comprehensive analysis had shown that students in their first year of study lack specialised skills in these areas in particular, as well as personal study skills. A typical feature of universities of applied sciences poses further difficulties for the first year of study: the different educational backgrounds and the associated heterogeneous level of knowledge. The aim of the "Pro-MINT-us" programme is therefore to support students in the STEM subjects in their first year more than before.

MINT support Supporting students in the STEM modules during their studies is part of the programme. It applies to all departments without exception, as mathematics and computer science skills are required to varying degrees in all degree programmes. The knowledge required differs from subject to subject.

Project work The second component of Pro-MINT-us focuses on group projects. First-year students are introduced to independent study and scientific work by means of subject-specific problems and assignments. Small groups offer particularly good conditions and learning success. The Department of Computer Science already carries out such beginner projects, and the experience gained provides the basis for implementing these beginner projects throughout the university.

Accompanying measures To ensure that the two programme components can be successfully introduced and implemented, there will be accompanying measures:

For example, Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg is currently expanding its e-learning programmes. While this is aimed at students, it would like to use the e-college to address the transition from school to university. It is intended to build a bridge that makes the transition easier. To ensure that the teaching material is even better received, the university would also like to promote the qualifications of teachers through needs-based programmes and incentives.

An important point is the student advice centre. Pupils should not decide in favour of a particular subject based on fashion, but rather guided by their interests. However, they should also learn to assess their STEM skills at an early stage and be informed about the funding opportunities available in the university's STEM subjects. On the one hand, this makes the choice of subject more successful and makes it easier to start studying.

The declared aim of Pro-MINT-us is to reduce drop-out rates and study times and increase student satisfaction, because success is fun. In the medium term, the university also hopes to attract more young people to study here.

NRW Science Minister on the result: "I warmly congratulate the NRW universities. They have successfully held their own in the nationwide competition with convincing concepts for study programmes." With their concepts for modern teaching, new exam and counselling services at universities, they could become pacemakers for a new study culture.

University President Professor Dr Hartmut Ihne was also delighted with the selection committee's decision: "The university is very happy that its many years of successful efforts to provide high-quality teaching have been supported by the acceptance of our innovative project."

Contact person: Prof Dr Manfred Kaul Vice President for Teaching, Studies and Continuing Education Tel. 02241/865-210, e-mail