The project preparing and adapting how Umeå University uses individual study plans (ISPs) for doctoral studies has reached the next step. This means that departments and units can now start using the Ladok student registry for ISPs. From the 2024 autumn semester, it will be compulsory to use it for new doctoral students' ISPs. The final date to use other systems than Ladok for individual study plans is 31 August 2032.
"Having a shared and well-functioning system for how to follow up doctoral students' ISPs is an important part of raising the quality and follow-up of doctoral education," says Pro-Vice-Chancellor Katrine Riklund who is chairperson of the project's steering committee.
Within the project "Individual study plan in Ladok", a shared process for how Umeå University deals with individual study plans for doctoral studies has been drafted. Simultaneously, two small pilot studies have been conducted with positive results. Frank Drewes, director of studies at the Department of Computing Science, has taken part in one of these and is satisfied with how ISP works in Ladok:
"It's been particularly valuable to get the chance to test and provide feedback on the functionality and user interface at an early stage. The system is already a huge improvement compared to what we have had so far, and it will continue to be improved."
The final date to use other systems than Ladok for individual study plans is 31 August 2032.
You can start using Ladok for ISPs now
The system for handling ISPs in Ladok is now up and running, and departments can choose if and at what pace they transfer existing ISPs for current doctoral students. From autumn 2024, however, it will be compulsory to use Ladok for individual study plans for all new doctoral students.
"To be able to improve the system, the project will be in close contact with departments that want to start using the functionality in Ladok. We welcome departments to start using the system already at this stage to ensure that adaptations are fit for purpose," says Maria Bek, project manager at the Student Services Office.
During this spring semester, the system will be further developed upon. Among other things, universities will be able to customise what text fields are visible to users. This helps us adapt the system to Umeå University's processes in particular. Departments that wish to start using Ladok now will receive training and user support from the Ladok group at the Student Services Office.
Is your department interested in transferring all or some doctoral students' ISPs to Ladok?
Please contact ladok@adm.umu.se.