MATCH Initiative

 

The MATCH initiative provides more transparency and efficiency in the credit mobility recognition process at RWTH Aachen University.

 

What is MATCH?

MATCH, the German acronym for "Mobility Promotion through Preemptive Recognition Checks: Transparency in Curricula of International Partner Universities", is an initiative of the International Office of RWTH Aachen University in cooperation with University management. This initiative aims to make the recognition processes of international examination achievements more efficient and transparent. It aims to familiarize the faculties of RWTH Aachen University with the preemptive recognition check and to support them in implementing appropriate measures, if these are desired. MATCH does not aim to fundamentally intervene in the recognition process of the faculties, but rather to promote the introduction of a preemptive check method. The method of preemptive recognition checking has already been successfully applied and evaluated in the master's program in physics as part of the MyScore project (2019-2022) at RWTH Aachen University, which was funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).

How Does the Preemptive Recognition Check Work?

In a globalized world, international mobility is becoming increasingly important for students. The opportunity to spend part of their studies abroad and gain valuable experience in the process represents an enormous enrichment for personal and professional development. However, the process of recognizing international study achievements is often lengthy and complex, placing a burden on both students and faculty members.

Preventive recognition checks offer a solution to this challenge. Using this method, achievements of selected partner universities are examined in advance with regard to recognition within the study programs of RWTH Aachen University. The result of this preliminary check is documented and made available to the students before their stay abroad. This gives them a clear idea of which achievements can be recognized and which cannot.

The preventive recognition check optimizes the recognition process by making it more efficient and transparent, while at the same time easing the burden on RWTH Aachen University staff. They only have to conduct the checks of international partner universities once, instead of checking externally provided services for each student individually. In the long run, this method reduces the workload of the faculties and at the same time promotes the international mobility of the students by minimizing their concerns regarding the recognition of their international achievements. As such, it makes a significant contribution to promoting the internationalization of the University.

What are the Advantages of the Preemptive Recognition Check?

In student mobility, the recognition of internationally earned academic credits is often a challenge for students and faculty members. The implementation of the preemptive recognition check can offer an efficient solution. Here are some of the advantages that it provides:

• Increased efficiency: preemptive recognition checks streamline the recognition process for both students and the faculty, saving resources and time.
• Improved transparency: The documentation of the preemptive recognition check creates a recognition record that increases transparency and traceability in the recognition process.
• Promoting internationalization: Efficient and transparent recognition of international study achievements helps to increase mobility within the University and fosters internationalization.
• Establishment of a digital recognition record: As part of the ongoing digitization efforts in higher education administration, collecting relevant recognition data is of great importance to enable digital documentation.
• Promoting a culture of recognition: The recognition process is often characterized by negative emotions, as students feel disadvantaged or fear being treated unfairly. Introducing preemptive checks can promote a more positive attitude toward the entire process.

How can I get help?

If you are interested in participating in the MATCH initiative and introducing preemptive recognition checks in your faculty, the International Office of RWTH Aachen University is on hand to provide you with advice and support. Here you will receive comprehensive information and advice on planning and implementation. In addition, the International Office actively supports you with the administrative tasks, such as obtaining module information from international partner universities or providing templates for data collection. In order to take full advantage of the initiative, we recommend that you contact the International Office at an early stage. Please note that this offer is available up to and including the year 2024.