Pulse
As the world becomes increasingly volatile and uncertain, it needs young professionals who are reflective, resilient, and purpose-driven. And as these develop into responsible leaders, they can help contribute to redefining a hopeful future for themselves and their communities.
Motivation
What if we could play a tangible role in shaping those thoughtful, committed citizens? Pulse aims to support the development of adults who engage with society and leave a positive impact. For today’s wicked problems, it may not be enough for our graduates to be merely competent; perhaps they also need to be wise, and courageous. Pulse meets this challenge. We believe that the ultimate goal of education is human flourishing, which goes beyond economic utility or the attainment of a diploma. It is about cultivating a deep sense of purpose and meaning, so that learners can stand in the world as self-assured professionals.
What problem does it solve?
We have noticed that some of our students are searching for purpose and meaning in life and are unsure where to begin. We help them connect with one another, as well as with relevant projects, faculty, lectorates, and other partners. We also create opportunities for external organizations to engage with our students, enabling them to make a tangible impact on our communities while exploring the question of how they can matter.
Project team
- Harmannus Huizenga
- Christine Fenech
- Jacqueline Rietveld
Approach
Pulse offers programmes, events and opportunities to make an impact in 7 metaphorical meeting points (spaces) that can be found at the heart of most villages and communities. These spaces are symbolical of the type of learning that can be found there. This way, students - or faculty - can find purpose and meaning in whichever space that appeals to them. They are:
- The Art Studio – learning though the appreciation of beauty
- The Library – learning through a valid body of knowledge
- The Temple – Learning through quietness and reflection
- The Gym – learning through physical activity and embodied learning
- The Campfire – learning from the community and through meeting the other
- The Lighthouse – learning through creating a positive impact on communities
- The Greenhouse – learning through the cultivation of personal talents and gifts
Results
We have set up an organisation and a physical space. In addition to our connection with the Reconomy research group, we are expanding our community of collaboration. An inspiring physical space is being realised in the ZinLab , part of the Grote Kerk in Leeuwarden, offering students a place to meet and work with partners. We are continuously growing our network of programme facilitators who offer various courses through Student Empowerment, as well as strengthening collaborations with other research groups, Firda, Stadsklooster and many external partners.
Research group REconomy
This project is led by the research group REconomy. Within this research group, 4 professorships are working together on several projects and goals. These professorships are:
