Recognition of Credits in the Framework of Socrates. A Dutch Case Study

Abstract

The recognition of credits across borders, in particular in theframework of the Socratesprogramme, is the subject of a recent study undertaken by the Netherlands Organization for International Cooperation in Higher Education (Nuffic). This articlepresents the results of that study andformulates recommendations to institutions to improve the situation. The study has shown that, after ten years of Socrates exchanges, recognition still leaves much to be desired; only half students obtain sufficient credits, in relation to the duration of the studyperiod abroad Although no very strikingpatterns could befound which couldserve as major determinants of recognition, itti evident that students receive insufficient information beforehand on the content of the study period abroad, and that arrangements and agreementsfor the recognition of credits are. on the one hand, often too lax and insufficiently elaborated and, on the other hand, too inflexible to adapt to the changes that almost inevitably occur in study programmes.