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STUDY GUIDE
2016-2017
BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAMME
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
FACULTY OF MATHEMATICS AND NATURAL SCIENCES
RIJKSUNIVERSITEIT GRONINGEN
COLOFON
Publication:
Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences
Education Support Centre
Nijenborgh 9
9747 AG Groningen
Telephone: Zernike: (0031) (0)50 363 4422
ADL: (0031) (0)50 363 3315 or 3343
E-mail:
[email protected]
Date:
Groningen, July 2016
Photo cover:
This picture of a NAO was kindly made available by Rick van der Mark.
Editor:
I.A. Neven
Prints:
250
Publisher:
Ricoh Nederland
Osloweg 85
9723 BN Groningen
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A General part ............................................................................................................................. 6
A1 GENERAL INFORMATION ...................................................................................................... 8
A1.1 INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................................................. 8
A1.2 FACULTY ORGANIZATION ............................................................................................................................... 8
A1.3 DEGREE PROGRAMMES IN BRIEF ................................................................................................................. 8
A1.3.1 Research and academic skills in undergraduate education ................................................................. 9
A1.3.2 Erasmus programmes ............................................................................................................................ 10
A1.3.3 Science, Business and Policy profile..................................................................................................... 11
A1.3.4 How to become a high school teacher .................................................................................................. 11
A1.4 UNIVERSITY OF GRONINGEN HONOURS COLLEGE ............................................................................... 12
A.1.4.1 Honours College during the Bachelor’s phase.................................................................................... 12
A.1.4.2 Honours College during the Master’s phase ...................................................................................... 12
A.1.4.3 HTSM Honours programme ................................................................................................................ 13
A2 STUDENT MATTERS ............................................................................................................ 14
A2.1 ADMISSION TO THE PROGRAMME.............................................................................................................. 14
A2.1.1 Admission to bachelor’s programmes .................................................................................................. 14
A2.1.2 Admission to master’s programmes ..................................................................................................... 14
A2.2 ACADEMIC YEAR .............................................................................................................................................. 15
A2.3 FINANCIAL MATTERS ..................................................................................................................................... 17
A2.3.1 Tuition fees .............................................................................................................................................. 17
A2.3.2 Student finance – DUO grants ............................................................................................................. 17
A2.3.3 Study costs .............................................................................................................................................. 17
A2.4 REGISTRATION FOR COURSE UNITS AND EXAMS ................................................................................. 17
A2.5 CREDIT POINTS AND MARKING SYSTEM .................................................................................................. 19
A2.5.1 Marking system ....................................................................................................................................... 19
A2.5.2 Fraud........................................................................................................................................................ 19
A2.6 BINDING STUDY ADVICE: THE BSA SYSTEM ............................................................................................ 19
A2.7 STUDY DELAY AND GRADUATION FUND (PROFILERINGSFONDS) ................................................... 20
A2.8 GRADUATION AND APPROVAL OF STUDY PROGRAMME ..................................................................... 21
A2.9 OBJECTION AND APPEAL PROCEDURES................................................................................................... 21
A2.9.1 Board of Appeal for Examinations (CBE) ............................................................................................ 22
A2.9.2 Complaints, concerning sexual harassment, aggression, violence and discrimination (SIAGD) 22
A2.9.3 Central Portal for the Legal Protection of Student Rights (CLRS) .................................................. 22
A2.10 COMMITTEES .................................................................................................................................................. 22
A2.10.1 Board of Examiners .............................................................................................................................. 22
A2.10.2 Programme Committee ....................................................................................................................... 23
A2.10.3 Admission Board BSc Programmes .................................................................................................. 23
A2.10.4 Admissions Board for the Master’s programme .............................................................................. 24
A2.10.5 Faculty Board ........................................................................................................................................ 24
A2.10.6 FMNS Faculty Council ......................................................................................................................... 24
A3 STUDENT SUPPORT ............................................................................................................ 25
A3.1 EDUCATION SUPPORT CENTRE ................................................................................................................... 25
A3.1.1 Education Support Desk ........................................................................................................................ 25
A3.1.2 Academic Advisor ................................................................................................................................... 26
A3.1.3 Degree Programme Coordinator .......................................................................................................... 26
A3.2 STUDYING WITH A PERFORMANCE DISABILITY .................................................................................... 26
A3.3 STUDYING ABROAD ........................................................................................................................................ 27
A3.3.1 Organizing study period abroad ........................................................................................................... 27
A3.3.2 Exchange Office ...................................................................................................................................... 28
A3.4 NON-DEGREE-PROGRAMME-RELATED SUPPORT ................................................................................. 28
A3.4.1 University Student Desk ........................................................................................................................ 28
A3.4.2 Student Service Centre (SSC) ............................................................................................................... 29
A3.4.3 International Service Desk (ISD) ......................................................................................................... 30
A3.4.4 International students’ association ESN-Groningen ......................................................................... 30
A3.4.5 Careers advice before, during & after your degree ............................................................................. 31
A3.5 HEALTH AND SAFETY ..................................................................................................................................... 31
A3.5.1 Fire and emergencies ............................................................................................................................. 31
A3.5.2 Computers and RSI ................................................................................................................................ 31
A4 FACILITIES .......................................................................................................................... 33
A4.1 BUILDINGS ......................................................................................................................................................... 33
A4.1.1 House rules, regulations ........................................................................................................................ 33
A4.2 LIBRARIES ......................................................................................................................................................... 34
A4.2.1 University Library .................................................................................................................................. 34
A4.2.2 Library at Zernike campus .................................................................................................................... 35
A4.2.3 Library of the University Medical Center Groningen ........................................................................ 36
A4.3 INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION CHANNELS ............................................................................. 36
A4.3.1 Personal account ..................................................................................................................................... 36
A4.3.2 Student Portal ......................................................................................................................................... 36
A4.3.3 E-mail ...................................................................................................................................................... 37
A4.3.4 Ocasys ...................................................................................................................................................... 38
A4.3.5 Schedules................................................................................................................................................. 38
A4.3.6 Nestor ...................................................................................................................................................... 38
A4.3.7 ProgRESS WWW .................................................................................................................................... 38
A4.3.8 Student PCs ............................................................................................................................................ 38
A4.3.9 Usage rules .............................................................................................................................................. 38
A4.4 PRINTING, COPYING AND SCANNING........................................................................................................ 39
B Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence .............................................................. 40
INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................................... 42
B1 THE FIELD OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ........................................................................ 43
B1.1 WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE? ....................................................................................................... 43
B1.1.1 Basic fields of study ................................................................................................................................. 43
B1.1.2 What can you do with a degree in Artificial Intelligence?.................................................................. 46
B1.2 THE BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAMME IN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ..................................... 46
B1.3 THE MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAMME IN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ........................................... 47
B1.3.1 What jobs are in store for you? .............................................................................................................. 47
B1.4 THE MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAMME IN HUMAN-MACHINE COMMUNICATION ....................... 48
B1.4.1 What jobs are in store for you? .............................................................................................................. 49
B1.5 LINK TO RESEARCH AT THE UNIVERSITY OF GRONINGEN ................................................................. 49
B1.6 FOR WHOM? ...................................................................................................................................................... 50
B1.7 LEARNING OUTCOMES OF THE DEGREE PROGRAMME ....................................................................... 50
B1.8 OVERVIEW OF RESEARCH AND ACADEMIC SKILLS OF THE BACHELOR’S DEGREE
PROGRAMME IN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ......................................................................................... 51
B2 THE DEGREE PROGRAMME IN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ............................................. 52
B2.1 STRUCTURE OF THE BACHELOR'S DEGREE PROGRAMME IN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ...... 52
B2.1.1 Propaedeutic phase ................................................................................................................................. 52
B2.1.2 Second and third year ............................................................................................................................ 53
B2.1.3 Studying abroad ...................................................................................................................................... 53
B2.2 STUDY PROGRAMME 2016-2019 .................................................................................................................. 54
B2.2.1 Entry requirements ................................................................................................................................ 57
B2.3 AFTER THE BACHELOR'S PHASE ................................................................................................................. 58
B2.3.1 Registering for the Master's degree in AI or HMC at the University of Groningen ....................... 58
B3 COURSE UNITS IN 2016-2017 ............................................................................................... 59
B3.1 CHANGES IN 2016-2017 ................................................................................................................................... 59
B3.2 COURSE UNITS IN 2016-2017......................................................................................................................... 59
B4 PRACTICAL TEACHING-RELATED MATTERS ...................................................................... 62
B4.1 TIMETABLES AND THE STRUCTURE OF THE ACADEMIC YEAR .......................................................... 62
B4.1.1 Lecture and examination timetables .................................................................................................... 62
B4.1.2 Changes .................................................................................................................................................... 62
B4.2 ACADEMIC YEAR 2016-2017 ........................................................................................................................... 62
B4.3 REGISTERING FOR COURSE UNITS AND EXAMS .................................................................................... 64
B4.3.1 Registering for exams of the FMNS ..................................................................................................... 64
B4.4 PROCEDURES FOR REQUESTING DEGREE CERTIFICATES ................................................................. 66
B4.4.1 Procedure for requesting a propaedeutic certificate .......................................................................... 66
B4.4.2 Procedure for requesting a Bachelor's degree certificate .................................................................. 66
B5 HELP, ADVICE AND SUPPORT............................................................................................. 68
B5.1 INFORMATION PROVISION ........................................................................................................................... 68
B5.2 COMMITTEES WITHIN THE DEGREE PROGRAMME .............................................................................. 70
B5.2.1 Education Support Centre ..................................................................................................................... 70
B5.2.3 Programme Committees and evaluations ........................................................................................... 71
B5.2.4 KISO, the Artificial Intelligence Student Platform ............................................................................ 71
B5.3 MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS TO THE ACADEMIC ADVISOR .......................................... 72
B5.4 SOCIETIES .......................................................................................................................................................... 75
B5.4.1 Cover study association.......................................................................................................................... 75
B5.4.2 Axon alumni society ............................................................................................................................... 76
B6 COURSE UNIT DESCRIPTIONS ............................................................................................ 77
C Rules, Regulations and Addresses ......................................................................................... 125
C1 RULES AND REGULATIONS ................................................................................................ 127
C1.1 STUDENT CHARTER ....................................................................................................................................... 127
C1.2 TEACHING AND EXAMINATION REGULATIONS (OER) ........................................................................ 128
C1.3 RULES AND REGULATIONS OF THE BOARD OF EXAMINERS ............................................................ 128
C2 ADDRESSES CENTRAL BODIES UNIVERSITY OF GRONINGEN ..........................................129
C2.1 GENERAL ADDRESSES .................................................................................................................................. 129
C2.2 ADDRESSES FOR STUDENTS ....................................................................................................................... 130
C3 FACULTY ADDRESSES ........................................................................................................ 131
C3.1 BUILDINGS ....................................................................................................................................................... 131
C3.2 LIBRARY............................................................................................................................................................ 131
C3.3 EXCHANGE OFFICE ....................................................................................................................................... 131
C3.4 EDUCATION SUPPORT DESK ....................................................................................................................... 132
C4 LOCATIONS ........................................................................................................................ 133
C4.1 ZERNIKE ............................................................................................................................................................ 133
C4.2 ADL ..................................................................................................................................................................... 134
A
General part
8
General part
A1
GENERAL INFORMATION
A1.1 INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the Study Guide for all degree programmes offered by the Faculty of
Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMNS). This Study Guide aims to provide students
and lecturers with information about the various degree programmes.
The Study Guide comprises a general section, which is identical for all FMNS degree
programmes, and a programme-specific section.
The general section of this Study Guide contains a wide range of information, for
example about facilities, student matters and what to do if you run into problems,
whereas the degree programme-specific section discusses matters such as the study
programme, study associations and important addresses.
A1.2 FACULTY ORGANIZATION
The Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programmes are offered by the Faculty of
Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMNS). FMNS is one of the largest natural sciences
faculties in the Netherlands. Teaching within FMNS is organized in an Undergraduate
and a Graduate School of Science. The Undergraduate School of Science organizes the
teaching of Bachelor’s programmes, while the Graduate School of Science organizes the
teaching of Master’s programmes and PhD projects in strong relationship with the
research institutes. In general the lecturers of the programmes are researcher in one of
the research institutes as well.
All Bachelor’s degree programmes within FMNS except Biology, Life Science and
Technology, and Pharmacy are offered in English. All Master’s degree programmes,
except Education and Communication and Pharmacy, are offered in English as well. This
increases student exchange and reflects the international character of research within the
faculty.
A1.3 DEGREE PROGRAMMES IN BRIEF
All FMNS degree programmes start with a three-year (180 ECTS) Bachelor’s phase, each
year comprising two semesters. A completed Bachelor’s degree can be followed by a
Master’s degree programme lasting at least two years (120 ECTS). Students who
successfully complete an FMNS degree programme are awarded the title of Bachelor of
Science (BSc) or Master of Science (MSc). In addition, some degree programmes also
lead to the conferral of the Dutch ‘ingenieur’ degree, a teaching qualification or a
pharmacist’s diploma.
Bachelor
Applied Mathematics
Applied Physics
Artificial Intelligence
Astronomy
Biology *
Chemical Engineering
Chemistry
* Only offered in Dutch.
ECTS
180
180
180
180
180
180
180
Bachelor
Computing Science
Industrial Engineering and Management
Life science and technology *
Mathematics
Pharmacy *
Physics
ECTS
180
180
180
180
180
180
General part
Master
Applied Mathematics
Applied Physics
Artificial Intelligence
ECTS
120
120
120
Astronomy
120
Behavioural & Cognitive
Neurosciences *
Biology
Biomedical Engineering
120
120
120
Biomedical Sciences
120
Chemical Engineering
Chemistry
Computing Science
Ecology and Evolution #
120
120
120
120
Master
Education and Communication**
Energy and Environmental Sciences
Human-Machine Communication
Industrial Engineering and
Management
Marine Biology
ECTS
120
120
120
Mathematics
Medical Pharmaceutical Sciences
Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
120
120
9
120
120
##
120
Nanoscience *
Pharmacy**
Physics
Water Technology (Joint Degree) ***
120
180
120
120
* Top/Research master.
** Only offered in Dutch.
*** The Joint Degree programme is offered in collaboration with other institutions skilled in this
field of expertise: two other Dutch universities (Wageningen University, University of Twente) and
the Technological Top Institute for Water Technology Wetsus, Leeuwarden.
# The top track Evolutionary Biology is part of the master Ecology & Evolution.
## The top track Biomolecular Sciences is part of the master Molecular Biology and Biotechnology.
A1.3.1 Research and academic skills in undergraduate education
Introduction
Since the introduction of the undergraduate and graduate educational degree-programmes
at the University of Groningen in 2002, bachelor and master studies are essentially separate
and independent degree-programmes. As the University of Groningen is an academic
institution, the education of both graduate and undergraduate degree-programmes thus
need to be thoroughly intertwined with academic research and students should be
familiarized with academic research skills.
Academic skills cannot be regarded as just a separate learning pathway in academic
education in which students are trained to retrieve information, communicate, reflect etc.,
but these skills should be fully connected to and embedded in the academic context in which
they are practiced. Academic skills are thus an important precondition and a logical
consequence of academic training.
Finally, research and academic skills require an academic attitude, which can be described as
a positive predisposition and orientation towards an academic approach of research
problems and issues. It requires the tendency to be curious and critical and to work
analytical, systematical, fact-based and accurate.
Research-based undergraduate education at the Faculty of Mathematics and
Natural Sciences
At the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMNS) the education of undergraduate
programmes is based on the latest academic theories and research outcomes, in the sense
that these form an integral part of courses and research projects of bachelor degreeprogrammes. Furthermore, each undergraduate programme contains an explicit learning
pathway introducing, practicing and assessing research and academic skills such as:
- Formulating adequate research goals, questions and/or hypotheses;
- Searching for, assessing and reflecting on scientific literature;
- Setup of basic research experiments, analysis of and reflection on its outcomes and
drawing appropriate conclusions;
- Critical thinking, reflection, analytic attitude and capacity;
10
General part
-
Reflecting on research methods and research methodology;
Communicate about research progress and outcomes (both orally and in writing);
Cooperate in a (multi-disciplinary) team.
The educational mission of the FMNS is to train students to be able to perform scientific
research independently, with a critical and academic attitude, accompanied with a clear
ethical conduct, thus preparing them for an excellent starting position for an academic or
professional career.
Implementation of research-based education in curricula of FMNS
undergraduate studies
Research-based education is implemented in virtually all teaching methods used at the
faculty; each with its own specific learning objectives, as exemplified below:
- Lectures: The vast majority of lecturers of the FMNS (>95%) are actively involved in
academic research and thus are inspired to present the latest academic theories and
research outcomes within lectures.
- Initial literature (re)search, analysis and assessment is carried out already in first
year symposium type of courses. These assignment-based courses connect students
closely to research groups of the FMNS, carrying out literature research linked to or
relevant for these research groups.
- Practical courses, tutorials and assignments have the following objectives:
 Practicing and familiarizing students with experimental work and skills
 Designing and executing basic research experiments
 Analysis of data and outcome of these experiments
 Draw adequate conclusions from and reporting on experimental data
 Reflect and report on experimental results and conclusions
- Science, Ethics, Technology, and Society course: In this course basic concepts of
science philosophy, ethics, innovation theory, argumentation theories and policy
making are introduced. This course not only introduces important philosophical and
societal considerations and implications of research on society, but also aims to
create awareness on ethical and societal conduct of students.
- Bachelor research thesis: During the Bachelor thesis, students are actively involved in
research carried out in research groups of the FMNS. Students are challenged as
much as possible to excel in their research assignment, while getting regular feedback
from their supervisor(s) and other members of research groups in which they are
allocated.
As the degree programme progresses, the complexity of the research pathway increases,
while the students’ involvement will shift from a more passive to a more active stance.
Each degree-programme has realized and detailed its research learning line in its own
specific way, depending on the focus, scope, and learning outcomes of the study. More
details on the research learning pathway are available in the programme-specific study guide
of each degree-programme or in the digital course catalogue Ocasys:
 www.rug.nl/ocasys/fwn
A1.3.2 Erasmus programmes
At the moment FMNS participates in two Erasmus+ (formerly known as Erasmus
Mundus) Master’s degree programmes:
- MEME (as part of the Master’s programme Ecology and Evolution),
www.evobio.eu
- TCCM (as part of the Master’s programme Chemistry),
tccm.qui.uam.es
General part
11
Erasmus Mundus aims to enhance quality in higher education through scholarships and
academic cooperation between Europe and the rest of the world by supporting joint
programmes provided by academic consortia. Erasmus Mundus offers financial support
for institutions and scholarships for individuals.
A1.3.3 Science, Business and Policy profile
The Science, Business and Policy profile (SBP-variant) is the option to choose if you are
interested in the social and commercial aspects of your subject. This profile will prepare you
for a career within a company or policy organization. In addition to gaining scientific
knowledge, you will learn effective presentation skills, how to deal with tough deadlines, how
to apply for an internship at a company or organization outside the University, how to give
and receive feedback, and how to work efficiently in groups.
The Science, Business and Policy profile is part of many of the Master’s programmes of
FMNS and consists of one year of course units and research in the field of your Master’s
degree programme complemented with one year of course units and internship focusing on
business and policy.
For more information, consult the website: www.rug.nl/fwn/sbp and the programmespecific part of the study-guide to see whether the Science, Business and Policy profile is part
of your Master’s degree programme.
A1.3.4 How to become a high school teacher
Since the different trajectories for becoming a high school teacher are taught in Dutch
only, this subsection is in Dutch.
Altijd al gewild...
- Voor de klas staan;
- Je kennis van het vak delen, maar ook je passie;
- Leerlingen motiveren en inspireren.
In dat geval zijn de hieronder genoemde mogelijkheden om een onderwijs- bevoegdheid
te behalen wellicht interessant voor jou.
Minor Educatie
Als je de mogelijkheid hebt om binnen je Bacheloropleiding een vrije minor te kiezen,
kun je kiezen voor de Educatieve Minor. Deze minor is een intensieve fulltime opleiding
van een halfjaar die - in combinatie met een Bacheloropleiding in een schoolvak - opleidt
tot leraar. Je gaat drie dagen per week aan de slag op een middelbare school. Daarnaast
verdiep je je bij de Lerarenopleiding in vakdidactiek, ontwikkelingspsychologie en
onderwijskunde.
Als je de Educatieve Minor en je Bacheloropleiding met goed gevolg hebt doorlopen, krijg
je een onderwijsbevoegdheid 'beperkt tweedegraads' voor de onderbouw van zowel
vmbo-tl als havo-vwo.
Voor meer informatie zie:
 www.rug.nl/lerarenopleiding/onderwijs/educatieveminor
Master Educatie en Communicatie
De richting Educatie van de Master Educatie en Communicatie in de wiskunde en
natuurwetenschappen biedt je een tweejarige Masteropleiding tot eerstegraadsleraar in
de bovenbouw havo-vwo. Met deze opleiding verdiep je je bètakennis én leer je hoe je die
kennis kunt delen, communiceren en onderwijzen.
Voor meer informatie zie:
 www.rug.nl/masters/educatie-en-communicatie-in-de-wiskunde-ennatuurwetenschappen
12
General part
Master LVHO
Behalve via een tweejarige opleiding, kun je ook eerstegraads docent worden via een
éénjarige variant, Leraar Voorbereidend Hoger Onderwijs (LVHO). Voorwaarde daarvoor
is dat je een Masterdiploma hebt in de richting van het schoolvak waarvoor je een
eerstegraads lesbevoegdheid wilt halen. Dus als je eerst een Masteropleiding in je e igen
wetenschappelijke discipline wilt volgen en daarna pas een lerarenopleiding wilt doen,
kun je voor de Master LVHO kiezen. Je wordt dan eerstegraadsleraar in bovenbouw
havo-vwo.
Voor meer informatie zie:
 www.rug.nl/fwn/beta-master/postmaster
A1.4 UNIVERSITY OF GRONINGEN HONOURS COLLEGE
If you would like an extra intellectual challenge in addition to your regular degree
programme, the Honours College may be just what you are looking for. Talented and
ambitious students are offered the opportunity to participate in the University of
Groningen Honours College during their Bachelor’s and Master’s phases.
A.1.4.1 Honours College during the Bachelor’s phase
The Bachelor’s honours programme comprises an extra 45 ECTS in addition to your
regular Bachelor’s programme. Within this interdisciplinary programme, 25 ECTS are
intended for in-depth study and 20 ECTS for broadening your horizon. The deepening
part consists of course units offered by your own faculty in which you get the opportunity
to develop and experience research on a subject of your interest. The broadening part
consists of course units (unrelated to your faculty), development of a range of skills and
also attention is paid to your personal development.
Next to this interdisciplinary programme, the Honours College offers also a Honours
programme in Philosophy.
Admission to the programme is by selection, since the number of places available is
limited. The top 15% of students on the Bachelor’s degree programme are invited to
apply, but students who have not received an invitation can also apply (on a ‘wild card’
basis).
For more information on the application procedure see:
 www.rug.nl/education/honours-college
Or contact the coordinator Han van der Strate:
 [email protected]
A.1.4.2 Honours College during the Master’s phase
The Master’s honours programme is a one-year extracurricular programme with a
student workload of 15 ECTS. It offers students who are able and willing to excel, the
possibility to deepen their theoretical knowledge about leadership and to improve their
leadership skills. This programme will provide a solid starting point for your future
academic or social career and it will contribute to your personal development.
For information, see:
 www.rug.nl/education/honours-college
Or contact the coordinator Han van der Strate:
 [email protected]
General part
13
A.1.4.3 HTSM Honours programme
The focus of this Master’s honours programme is on High Tech Systems and Materials
(HTSM). The HTSM honours programme is offered by the University of Groningen – in
cooperation with Philips Consumer Lifestyle, University Campus Fryslân and University of
Twente – and aims to equip talented, motivated students with the knowledge and skills
needed to excel at the frontiers of High Tech Systems and Materials (HTSM).
The 1.5 year HTSM honours programme worth 20 ECTS is followed in addition to the
standard Master's programme. It has been developed especially for students who want to get
more from their studies. The Honours programme offers intensive, small-group teaching
with a group of like-minded, motivated students. Furthermore, it offers a unique opportunity
to collaborate with students from different disciplines on challenging, real-life product
development assignments by the industry.
For more information, see:
 www.rug.nl/education/honours-college/htsm-masterprogramme
Or contact the coordinator Vanessa van Hest:
 [email protected]
14
General part
A2
STUDENT MATTERS
A2.1 ADMISSION TO THE PROGRAMME
In order to be able to participate in course units and examinations, you must be
registered at the University of Groningen as a student of a certain degree programme.
Registration for a programme is done via Studielink (www.studielink.nl). You must
reregister every year. Please contact the University Student Desk if you have any
questions concerning your registration.
Practical information, such as application procedures, can be found on the University
website. The University website can also be consulted for the top programmes and the
Erasmus Mundus deadlines.
International students please look at:
 www.rug.nl/fwn/fmns-programme
 www.rug.nl/education/international-students/application-procedure
Dutch students please look at:
 www.rug.nl/fwn/beta-studie
 www.rug.nl/education/nederlandse-studenten/inschrijven/
For international students, sufficient proficiency in English (a minimum IELTS test score
of 6.5 or a TOEFL test score of 580 (paper-based)) is required for the English taught
programmes and sufficient proficiency in Dutch (NT2-II) is required for the Dutch taught
programmes.
A2.1.1 Admission to bachelor’s programmes
In case you have a Dutch diploma that according to Dutch higher education law gives
entry to the degree programme of your choice, admission is automatic and is handled by
Studielink:
 www.studielink.nl
In all other cases (e.g. when you have a non-Dutch diploma or a Dutch diploma that does
not give automatic access to the degree programme), besides registering through
Studielink, you have to go through an admission procedure in which the Admission
Board BSc Programmes of FMNS based on information provided by you, decides whether
or not you meet the admission requirements of the programme of your choice.
A2.1.2 Admission to master’s programmes
Students can be admitted to a Master’s degree programme once they have successfully
completed a related Bachelor’s degree programme at the University of Groningen.
Students with a Bachelor’s degree from another Dutch or foreign university may also
qualify for admission. However, admission is then granted on an individual basis by the
Admissions Board. The Admissions Board will check whether you have the appropriate
qualifications. In case of a Bachelor’s degree from a foreign university after registration
in Studielink you will be contacted by the Admissions Office who will provide you with
information on how to proceed with the admissions process. In case of a Bachelor’s
degree from another Dutch university please contact the relevant academic advisor for
information on how to proceed with the admissions process.
General part
15
Pre-master programme
In certain cases a pre-master programme is required for Dutch students with a partially
suitable Bachelor of Science or a suitable Bachelor’s degree in Applied Sciences (HBO).
For more information and assistance with applying ask the relevant academic advisor.
A2.2 ACADEMIC YEAR
The general academic year overview for FMNS is set out on the next page.
The course units offered by the Life Science programmes are offered in blocks. Each
block takes three weeks. During a block a student is engaged in one course unit.
The course units offered by the other degree programmes are offered in periods of ten
weeks (eight weeks of classes followed by two weeks of exams). A student is in g eneral
engaged in three course units during a period.
Some course units, for example for the degree programmes in Artificial Intelligence and
Industrial Engineering and Management, are offered by other faculties. As their
academic year overviews may differ from the one set out in the schedule presented here,
for these course units you should consult the timetables on the web or the programme specific part of this Study Guide.
Information about timetables and national holidays can be found via the following
website:
 rooster.rug.nl
16
General part
Academic calendar 2016–2017
PERIOD 1.1
PERIOD 1.2
09-09-16
16-09-16
23-09-16
30-09-16
07-10-16
14-10-16
21-10-16
28-10-16
04-11-16
11-11-16
18-11-16
25-11-16
02-12-16
09-12-16
16-12-16
23-12-16
06-01-17
13-01-17
20-01-17
27-01-17
03-02-17
10-02-17
17-02-17
24-02-17
03-03-17
10-03-17
17-03-17
24-03-17
31-03-17
07-04-17
13-04-17
21-04-17
28-04-17
04-05-17
12-05-17
19-05-17
26-05-17
02-06-17
09-06-17
16-06-17
23-06-17
30-06-17
07-07-17
14-07-17
01-09-17
PERIOD 2.1
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
th.
fri.
fri.
th.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
fri.
Resits 2.2
Vacation
PERIOD 2.2
-
PERIOD 1.1
05-09-16
12-09-16
19-09-16
26-09-16
03-10-16
10-10-16
17-10-16
24-10-16
31-10-16
07-11-16
14-11-16
21-11-16
28-11-16
05-12-16
12-12-16
19-12-16
26-12-16
09-01-17
16-01-17
23-01-17
30-01-17
06-02-17
13-02-17
20-02-17
27-02-17
06-03-17
13-03-17
20-03-17
27-03-17
03-04-17
10-04-17
18-04-17
24-04-17
01-05-17
08-05-17
15-05-17
22-05-17
29-05-17
06-06-17
12-06-17
19-06-17
26-06-17
03-07-17
10-07-17
17-07-17
PERIOD 1.2
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
tu.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
tu.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
mo.
Non-life Science
degree
programmes
L1
L2
L3
L4
L5
L6
L7
L8
PERIOD 2.1
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52–1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29–35
Life Science
degree
programmes
L1
L2
L3/E
L4
L5
L6/E
L7
L8
L9/E
Resits 1.1
L1
L2
L3/E
L4
L5
L6/E
Vacation
L7
L8
L9/E
Resits 1.2
L1
L2
L3/E
L4
L5
L6/E
L7
L8
L9/E
Resits 2.1
L1
L2
L3
L4/E
L5
L6
L7/E
L8
L9
L10
L11/E/R
PERIOD 2.2
Week
Start & end date
Nr.
Remarks
L3/E: lectures & exams
Examinations 1.1
L1
L2
L3/R**
L4/R**
L5/R**
L6
Vacation
L7
L8 (Resits AI*)
Examinations 1.2
Resits 1.1**
L1 (Resits***)
L2
L3/R**
L4/R**
L5/R**
L6
L7
L8 (Resits AI*)
Examinations 2.1
Resits 1.2**
L1 (Resits***)
L2
L3/R**
L4/R**
L5/R**
L6
L7
L8
L9 (Resits AI*)
Examinations 2.2
Resits 2.1**
Resits 2.2.
L3/R: lectures & resits > 17:00 h
Christmas and New Year
Fri. 14-04 Good Friday
Mo. 17-04 Easter Monday
Th. 27-04 Kings Day
Fr. 05-05 Liberation Day
Th. 25-05 Ascension Day
Mo. 05-06 Whit Monday
Summer holidays
L: lectures E: exams R: resits;
* For Artificial Intelligence courses the resits are scheduled in the last week of the following block.
**For Computing Science courses the resits are scheduled either in week 3, 4, 5 of the following block or at
the end of the next exam period.
*** For some Non-Life Sciences courses (mainly IEM and (Applied) Physics) the resits will take place in the
first lecture week of the following block.
General part
17
A2.3 FINANCIAL MATTERS
The University Student Desk (USD, see C2.2) provides information about registration
procedures, tuition fees and everything you need to do to ensure that your registration
becomes and remains valid. They also provide students who have paid their fees and have
registered as students at the University of Groningen with a University Pass, the so called
RUG-pass.
A2.3.1 Tuition fees
Information regarding tuition fees can be found on the website:
 myuniversity.rug.nl/infonet/studenten/inuitschrijving/collegegeld/
International students can find information on tuition fees on the following website:
 www.rug.nl/education/international-students/financial-matters
You can also contact the USD for further information.
A2.3.2 Student finance – DUO grants
For more information about Student Finance and grants (and the changes as of 1 September
2015 in this system) for Dutch students, please contact the Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs
(DUO) Groningen office:
 www.duo.nl
A2.3.3 Study costs
The University of Groningen has a policy on study costs. The policy aims to control costs
so that the study cost component does not exceed the grant/loan budgets for Dutch
students. The amount that students are required to spend on study materials will
therefore not exceed the government grant. The standard sum for 2016-2017 is € 740,-.
Each programme phase has a cost ‘ceiling’ (standard sum x length of programme phase,
i.e. propaedeutic, bachelor, master, major, minor).
Sometimes it is not possible to avoid exceeding the ceiling amount. In such cases it is
possible to apply to the Faculty Board for reimbursement of half the extra expenditure on
the basis of receipts submitted as proof. Sometimes other arrangements may be possible.
Students can obtain information on the cost policy at www.rug.nl/insandouts or
Frequently asked questions on /myuniversity. They can also visit the University Student
Desk or their academic advisor.
A2.4 REGISTRATION FOR COURSE UNITS AND EXAMS
Registration for course units and exams is compulsory and should be completed in time
and is done via ProgRESS WWW:
 progRESSwww.nl/rug
-
-
Timely registration for course units is considered to be registration at least
4 weeks before the period the relevant course unit starts in.
 Registration for a course unit obliges the registered person to appear for the
first session of the course unit.
 ProgRESS WWW does not allow you to register for more than four courses in
a period. In case you want to register for more courses in a period please
contact your academic advisor.
 Please deregister for a course unit in case you decide not to attend.
Registration for written examinations is coupled to
the registration for course units! Students are responsible for a timely
registration at least one week before the date of the exam:
 In case you attend a (re-)exam you need to be present at the start of the
(re-)exam.
18
General part





In case you register for a course unit you will automatically be registered for
the exam.
In case you fail the exam you will automatically be registered for the re-exam.
It is possible to register separately for an exam or re-exam, i.e. you can register
for a (re-)exam without registering for the course.
Despite the automatic exam registration the student remains responsible for
being properly registered for (re-)exams.
Please deregister for a (re-)exam in case you decide not to attend.
There is an opportunity to sign out until at least 1 week before the date of the
(re-)examination.
Note: Some degree programmes, for example Artificial Intelligence and Industrial
Engineering and Management, include a lot of course units offered by other faculties.
Different registration procedures apply to these course units! Please check the
programme-specific section of this Student Handbook for the registration deadlines for
these course units, or contact the Education Office of the relevant degree programme or
faculty.
You can always contact the student information desk of the faculty that offers the course
unit, i.e. the Education Support Desk (see Section A3.1.1) for courses offered by the
Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, if you have trouble registering.
The Board of Examiners may grant permission to take a course unit or examination, even
when a student is not properly registered, in special cases of force majeure. Please
contact the academic advisor for more information.
Coupling between ProgRESS WWW and Nestor
Nestor is the electronic learning environment of the University of Groningen (see Section
A4.3.6) and is used by the lecturer of a course to provide course material (like slides,
reader, exercises) and post announcements.
Registration in ProgRESS WWW and enrolment in a Nestor course are coupled:
- Registration in ProgRESS WWW for a course or exam automatically results in
enrolment in the corresponding Nestor course.
- Enrolment in a Nestor course does not mean you are allowed to participate in the
course itself, therefor you need to be registered in ProgRESS WWW for the
course.
- If you are planning a resit only, please do not register in progress for the whole
course unit (including practicals and or group assignments) but sent a request to
be admitted to Nestor to have access to the learing environment of the course
unit.
Registered/access in
ProgRESS
WWW
ProgRESS
WWW
Nestor
Course
I have access to the
course in Nestor
Yes (if available)
I am allowed to participate in
the course
Yes
Exam
Yes (if available)
Course
Yes (if available)
Only if registered in ProgRESS
WWW for the course
No
General part
19
A2.5 CREDIT POINTS AND MARKING SYSTEM
University degree programmes comprise several course units. Each course unit is
awarded a number of ECTS credit points (ECTS: European Credit Transfer and
Accumulation System). ECTS is an EU standardized system for measuring student
workload as a means of facilitating international mobility. One ECTS credit point
represents 28 hours of full-time study (including contact hours, reading, independent
study, preparation for exams, etc.). 60 ECTS credit points represent one year.
A2.5.1 Marking system
After an exam is completed, the results are administered in the automated results
registration system (ProgRESS WWW). A list of the results you have achieved can be
found on the internet:
 progRESSwww.nl/rug
Please contact the Education Support Desk (ESD) immediately if you find an error in
your registered marks.
If an official results transcript is required, a printout can be requested from the
Education Support Desk (ESD, see Section A3.1.1).
In general, each course unit is examined either by an examination (written or oral), a
written assignment, or a presentation. The Dutch marking scale ranges from 1 (lowest) to
10 (highest). As an indication, 6 is the minimum pass mark, and 10 and marks lower than
3 are highly exceptional:
10
9
8
7
6
<6
Outstanding; a remarkable performance; seldom given
Excellent
Very good
Good
Satisfactory
Unsatisfactory
A mark below 6 requires the course unit to be repeated until a 6 or higher is achieved.
The final cumulative mark for the whole programme is the weighted average of the
individual marks for each of the elements, taking into account the student workload.
Alternatively, an assessment can be registered as pass or fail only. This type of
assessment is used for practicals and also for the registration of results from abroad
(based on the transcript of records of the foreign University).
A2.5.2 Fraud
Fraud and plagiarism are not accepted at this University or anywhere else in the
academic community. In all cases where plagiarism is found or suspected, the Board of
Examiners will act accordingly. If the Board decides that plagiarism has occurred, it will
impose a sanction in accordance with the Rules and Regulations (see Section C1.3). In
general, this will result in the student being excluded from participation in examinations
or other forms of testing for the relevant course unit for the current academic year.
A2.6 BINDING STUDY ADVICE: THE BSA SYSTEM
A binding (negative) study advice is a binding decision regarding the continuation of the
Bachelor’s degree programme.
To be allowed to continue your Bachelor’s degree programme, you must have earned at
least 45 ECTS credit points by the end of your first year and have gained your
propaedeutic certificate by the end of your second year.
If you fail to satisfy these requirements, you will be issued a binding (negative) study
advice. This means you are not allowed to continue your degree programme and will not
20
General part
be allowed to register for the same Bachelor’s degree programme for the next two years.
You can, however, register for other degree programmes. However, a negative BSA for a
certain degree programme may also apply to a cluster of related degree programmes (see
the website below for the clusters within FMNS).
If you decide in your first year to deregister for your degree programme before the 1st of
February, it is possible to register in a later academic year for the same degree
programme again, thereby avoiding a binding study advice in the academic year of
deregistration.
If you fail to satisfy the BSA requirements due to personal circumstances, you can apply
for an adapted BSA threshold. Please contact the academic advisor as soon as the
circumstances arise.
More information about the BSA system can be found on:
 myuniversity.rug.nl/infonet/studenten/bindend-studie-advies/
A2.7 STUDY DELAY AND GRADUATION FUND (PROFILERINGSFONDS)
If circumstances beyond your control affect your progress during your studies, you may
be eligible for financial assistance from the Graduation Fund (Profileringsfonds). The
conditions are set out in the regulations pertaining to the Fund:
 myuniversity.rug.nl/infonet/studenten/profileringsfonds/
If you experience study delay due to circumstances beyond your control, and if the
delay is expected to amount to more than four weeks, you must report this
immediately to the academic advisor. The following can constitute grounds for
financial assistance:
- Illness;
- Family circumstances;
- A disability (physical limitations);
- Pregnancy;
- Lack of a degree programme that meets objective standards;
- Loss of certification for your degree programme;
- Other circumstances of an exceptional nature.
The academic advisor will direct you to a student counsellor if your delay amounts to or
is expected to amount to more than 15 ECTS credit points. You will have to make an
appointment with a student counsellor for a follow-up report yourself.
If during the academic year the delay amounts to more than 15 ECTS after the first report
to the academic advisor, you must contact a student counsellor immediat ely, even if you
have not been told to do so by the academic advisor.
You must follow the advice of and the agreements made with the academic advisor and
the student counsellor or you will not be eligible for financial support from the
Graduation Fund.
Apply in good time for financial assistance. If you apply late you will not receive
any financial compensation.
General part
21
A2.8 GRADUATION AND APPROVAL OF STUDY PROGRAMME
The degree application comprises two steps:
1. The approval of your study program by the Board of Examiners.
2. The actual degree application ultimately resulting in the graduation ceremony.
Starting the application process takes place by means of registration in ProgRESS WWW the
same way you register for a module, exam or re-sit, and subsequently composing your study
program in ProgRESS WWW (see Section A4.3.7).
In ProgRESS WWW you go to:
Enrolments RuG > Mathematics and Nat. Sciences > (Under)Graduate school > BSc /MSc
“Program” > Aanvraag examen BSc/MSc “Program”
Once you have submitted your programme the Board of Examiners will decide about
approval of your programme.
ProgRESS WWW detects when you have finished all modules of your approved study
programme. The administration will than start the process of the degree application. You can
follow the progress of this process in the degree application module in ProgRESS WWW.
Information regarding ceremony dates can be found on the Student Portal or the
programme-specific section of the Study Guide.
On request, students who drop out can receive a statement of their academic record
including the course units passed.
Honours predicate
In some cases a student will be awarded an honours predicate, Cum Laude or Summa
Cum Laude. The specific guidelines for this predicate can be found for the Bachelor’s
programmes in the Teaching and Examination Regulations (see Section C1.2) and for the
Master’s programmes in the Rules and Regulations of the Board of Examiners (see
Section C1.3).
A2.9 OBJECTION AND APPEAL PROCEDURES
If you have a complaint, or if you disagree with a certain decision, you can voice your
concerns in an informal and/or a formal way:
- Informal - The quickest way to solve a problem is to talk to the person or body
with whom you have the problem. If the relationship or atmosphere between you
and the person in question does not allow for informal talks, you can ask your
academic advisor or the SSC student counsellors for advice.
- Formal - You can lodge an official complaint, objection or appeal if there are
degree programme-related matters that you are not happy with or do not agree
with.
22
General part
A2.9.1 Board of Appeal for Examinations (CBE)
The Board of Appeal for Examinations (CBE) is an independent body where
administrative appeals can be lodged against individual decisions by Boards of
Examiners, examiners and Admissions Boards on the basis of Article 7.60 of the Higher
Education and Research Act (WHW). This may concern decisions about subjects
specifically related to teaching, such as:
- Marking of examinations and final assessments;
- Admission to examinations;
- Admission to a degree programme;
- Assessment of the entrance examination (colloquium doctum);
- Establishing the number of ECTS credits earned;
- Granting of exemptions.
For more information, see the Student Portal.
Appeals can be submitted to the Central Portal for the Legal Protection of Student Rights
(CLRS, see A2.9.3).
A2.9.2 Complaints, concerning sexual harassment, aggression,
violence and discrimination (SIAGD)
Complaints concerning, for example, sexual harassment, aggression, violence or
discrimination should be reported to the University of Groningen Confidential Advisor.
The Confidential Advisor is available to both students and staff members. The
Confidential Advisor has an independent position within the University and all
consultations are treated confidentially. For more information, see the Student Portal.
If you feel you are the victim of unwanted behaviour, you can also submit a written
complaint to the Central Portal for the Legal Protection of Student Rights (CLRS, see
A2.9.3). All documents related to such complaints are treated strictly confidentially.
A2.9.3 Central Portal for the Legal Protection of Student Rights (CLRS)
Appeals against individual decisions by Boards of Examiners or official complaints
concerning sexual harassment, aggression, violence or discrimination can be submitted
in writing to the Central Portal for the Legal Protection of Student Rights at the following
address:
CONFIDENTIAL University of Groningen
Central Portal for the Legal Protection of Student Rights (CLRS)
P.O. Box 72
9700 AB Groningen
the Netherlands
Every complaint will be treated as confidential. More information can be found on:
 www.rug.nl/education/laws-regulations-complaints/complaintobjectionappeal
A2.10 COMMITTEES
The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences has a number of managerial bodies,
including:
A2.10.1 Board of Examiners
The Board of Examiners [Examencommissie, EC] draws up rules related to the practical
aspects of examinations, such as how exams may be taken, what the criteria for a ‘cum
laude’ predicate are and how registration is arranged. In addition to these general rules,
the Board of Examiners is also responsible for individual matters such as approval of
individual study programmes, granting exemption from course units, admission to
course units to which you would normally not be admitted, assessing force majeure in
General part
23
situations related to registration and examinations and investigating potential cases of
fraud. The Board of Examiners is also your point of call for complaints about
examinations and marking.
Each degree programme has its own Board of Examiners, which is only authorized to rule
in matters concerning that specific degree programme. Some degree programmes include
course units offered by other degree programmes. The Board of Examiners for the degree
programme setting the examinations is authorized to assess the examinations, deal with
any complaints and decide upon requests for alternative exam regulations. Course units
taught by other degree programmes or faculties are the responsibility of the Board of
Examiners of the degree programme in question.
The Board of Examiners comprises at least of one member who is a lecturer in the degree
programme and one member from outside the programme. Please see the programmespecific section of the Study Guide for more information and a list of members of the
relevant Board of Examiners.
A2.10.2 Programme Committee
The Programme Committee [PC, Opleidingscommissie, OC] handles all important
matters regarding a degree programme, with the exception of individual problems. This
committee directly advises the Faculty Council with regard to the content of the Teaching
and Examination Regulations [OER, onderwijs- en examenregeling]. Additionally, the
Committee is responsible for the evaluation of course units and the evaluation of the
degree programme. It also issues solicited and unsolicited advice to the Programme
Director about educational issues. A Programme Committee consists of both staff
members and students. Information on the Programme Committee members for your
degree programme can be found in the programme-specific section of the Study Guide.
Student platforms and Bètastuf
Most degree programmes also have a student platform, in which students from all
cohorts meet to discuss their degree programme. This way, problems can be identified at
an early stage and possibly even resolved before the end of the course unit in question.
Student representatives from the Programme Committees (OCs) also attend these
meetings, which may therefore also serve as input for the OCs.
Please check the programme-specific section of the Study Guide for more information
about your degree programme's student platform and how to contact it.
Bètastuf is the overarching organisation for all the student-representation in FMNS.
See for more information:
 www.rug.nl/fwn/organization/betastuf
A2.10.3 Admission Board BSc Programmes
Students who apply for admission to a Bachelor’s degree programme based on prior
education that according to Dutch higher education law does not give entry to the degree
programme of your choice (e.g. a non-Dutch diploma, Dutch diploma without the proper
profile, or Dutch propaedeutic certificate of a university of applied sciences) will be
assessed by the Admission Board BSc Programmes (CBT, Commissie Bijzondere
Toelating). For more information about the admissions procedure, see Section A2.1.
Contact information can be found on the FMNS website:
 www.rug.nl/fwn/beta-studie/praktisch/toelating-inschrijving/
24
General part
A2.10.4 Admissions Board for the Master’s programme
Students can be admitted to a Master’s degree programme once they have successfully
completed a related Bachelor’s degree programme at the University of Groningen.
Students with a Bachelor’s degree from another Dutch or foreign university may also
qualify for admission. However, admission is then granted on an individual basis by the
Admissions Board of the programme. Each (cluster of) Master’s degree programmes has
its own Admissions Board. For more information about the admissions procedure, see
Section A2.1.
A2.10.5 Faculty Board
The Faculty Board (Faculteitsbestuur, FB) is responsible for the management and
administration of the Faculty, and for the supervision of the quality of the teaching and
research. The FB also draws up the budgets and allocates the staff.
After each meeting, the Faculty Board sends an overview of the topics discussed and
decisions taken to the Faculty Council, the Director of Undergraduate and Graduate
Studies and the directors of the research institutes for their information, unless the
interests of the University or of the involved persons preclude this.
A2.10.6 FMNS Faculty Council
The Faculty Council [Faculteitsraad] is FMNS’s consultative participation body. It has
staff and student members and is authorized to discuss the general affairs of the Faculty
with the Faculty Board, to make suggestions and to voice its opinions.
The Faculty Council has rights of approval and rights to advise the Faculty Board about
matters that are specifically relevant to the Faculty.
In addition, the Faculty Council has rights of approval with regard to the Faculty
Regulations and a large part of the Teaching and Examination Regulations. Where the
Faculty Board has the right to take certain measures independently, the staff section of
the Faculty Council has rights to advise as well as rights of approval.
More information can be found on the website:
 www.rug.nl/about-us/organization/administrative/participation/facultycouncils/faculty-council-fwn
General part
25
A3
STUDENT SUPPORT
A3.1 EDUCATION SUPPORT CENTRE
The staff of the FMNS Education Support Centre (ESC) provides support to the teaching
organization. Staff members are academic advisors, degree programme coordinators,
schedulers, exchange coordinators, student administration, and secretaries.
Their support involves:
- Providing information for students and prospective students about the teaching
programme;
- Helping students with study-related problems;
- Organizing registration for course units and examinations;
- Administering examination results and degree certificates;
- Compiling lecture and examination timetables;
- Providing information about study abroad and financial support;
- Formulating and implementing education policy, etc.;
- Conducting and processing surveys in the field of teaching quality assurance;
- Supporting the Programme Committees and Board of Examiners.
The ESC has offices at Zernike and at the A. Deusinglaan (ADL) location. Although FMNS
students are welcome to visit both locations if they have general questions, programme specific knowledge is mainly concentrated at the location where the students follow most
of their course units.
A3.1.1 Education Support Desk
The Education Support Desk (ESD) is the ESC’s front office. This is where students can
turn to with questions and comments about the teaching organization. Please feel free to
contact the ESD via e-mail or phone, or drop by during opening hours.
You may visit the ESD for the following kind of matters:
- To hand in programme-related forms or documents;
- To get a certified transcript of records (free of charge);
- In case of questions about the processing of grades in ProgRESS WWW;
- In case of enrolment problems in ProgRESS WWW;
- If you have questions about graduation (after reading the relevant information on
this Nestor page).
ESD Zernike
Location:
Opening hours:
Telephone:
E-mail:
Bernoulliborg, Nijenborgh 9, building 5161, first floor
10:30 – 12:00 (all week days)
13:00 – 15:00 (not on Wednesday and Friday)
(050) 363 4422
(between 9.00 – 12:00 and 13:00 – 16.00)
[email protected]
26
General part
ESD ADL
Location:
Opening hours:
Telephone:
E-mail:
UMCG, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, building 3214, ground floor
12:00 – 14:00
(050) 363 3315 or (050) 363 3343
(between 9.00 – 12:00 and 13:00 – 16.00)
[email protected]
For detailed information about closing days (for instance due to holidays) see the Student
Portal.
A3.1.2 Academic Advisor
Successful study depends on many different factors, and it is therefore understandable
that students sometimes need to consult an impartial expert. The task of the academic
advisor [studieadviseur] is to assist students in finding solutions to any problems
encountered while studying. In practice, this concerns matters like the choice of degree
programme, study pace or an improvement in study methods. You can visit the open
office hours of an academic advisor or make an appointment via the Education Support
Desk or using youcanbook.me. For an overview of the academic advisors see the Nestor
page of the Education Support Centre and for the contact information of the academic
advisor relevant for you see the programme-specific section of the Study Guide.
During the academic year academic advisors organize meetings to support students with
certain aspects of their study. In the Thesis Support Group students, who have problems
keeping pace when working on a large research project, meet weekly under the
supervision of an academic advisor. They discuss their progress and set goals for the
coming week. Similarly, other groups of students meet on a regular basis to increase their
general study progress.
Problems of a more general nature (e.g. the financial consequences of study delay) are
often dealt with by consulting the University student counsellors. You can also discuss
social matters with the academic advisor if you need a confidant for personal problems.
In some of these cases the academic advisor will recommend the more specialized
assistance provided by the Student Service Centre (SSC, see section A3.4.2).
Students can book their own appointment with an academic advisor, using an online
booking system (https://youcanbook.me), for which the specific URL can be found at
Nestor.
A3.1.3 Degree Programme Coordinator
The degree programme coordinator [onderwijscoördinator] supports the teaching
process within the programme, is the secretary of the Board of Examiners and advises the
Programme Committee. Consult the contact information in the programme-specific
section of the Study Guide if you wish to contact the degree programme coordinator.
A3.2 STUDYING WITH A PERFORMANCE DISABILITY
Sometimes personal circumstances necessitate adjustments in teaching or testing. This
can occur when students have dyslexia or performance disabilities due to a physical
disability, a psychiatric problem or a chronic illness. Adjustments usually involve:
- Making certain facilities available (extra exam time, adapted exam material, etc.)
permitting exceptions from the Teaching and Examination Regulations (see
section C1.2);
- Extracurricular individual examinations;
- Different examination time or place;
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27
- Relaxation of study progress rules;
- Replacement assignment for compulsory lectures or practical’s, etc.
In consultation with the academic advisor, you can examine what is necessary or
determine which facilities you can use, which departures from the OER will be requested,
whether it will be necessary to adapt your study pace or study planning, etc.
Please inform as soon as possible the academic advisor in case you have a
performance disability.
A3.3 STUDYING ABROAD
Several FMNS Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree programmes offer students the opportunity
to gain academic and social experience abroad. Next to attending regular courses at a host
university, you can also opt for other projects, such as: work placements, minors (3rd year
BA) or MA research projects. Please ask your academic advisor whether an exchange period
or a project fits in your programme. If your academic advisor finds your project feasible, go
to the Exchange Office (see A3.3.2) who will tell you how to proceed.
A3.3.1 Organizing study period abroad
Where can you go?
If you want to study at another European university, you can be hosted at the following
Erasmus partner universities of the FMNS Faculty: check the Student Portal.
Note: contact the Exchange Office (Bernoulliborg) to know whether you are eligible for an
Erasmus exchange period and to check which places are still available.
If you would like to spend a study period outside Europe, you could leave within the
framework of the Multi-Faculty Exchange (MFE). The RUG has university-wide agreements
with some highly ranked universities worldwide, see the Student Portal.
Bear in mind that the deadline for MFE is extremely early (last year: February 1 st) and that
many documents (as an official language test) should be handed in by then. The deadline for
the academic year 2015-16 was not known at the moment this study guide was prepared.
In case you wish to conduct an internship, be aware that you can go anywhere in Europe
(with an Erasmus funding) or outside Europe (with a Marco Polo scholarship). For
information about funding and/or eligibility, contact the Exchange Office.
How can you finance your study period abroad?
The easiest way to finance a study period or a work placement abroad - within Europe - is
with an Erasmus grant. This scholarship entitles you to an allowance of 12 months, which
you can use in several (interrupted) times. For destinations outside Europe (be it for a study
programme or for an internship), you can apply for a grant from the University’s Marco Polo
travel fund. Know that a combination of both these grants (Erasmus and Marco Polo) is not
possible. For more details about these grants or any additional funding, please contact the
Exchange Office (see A3.3.2).
Are you eligible for a grant?
To be eligible for an Erasmus or Marco Polo grant, you must at least have completed the first
year Bachelor’s degree programme.
Besides, the following conditions apply to both grants:
- Internship duration: min. 2 months/ max. 12 months.
- Study period: min. 3 months/ max. 12 months.
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General part
Which requirements must your study programme abroad meet?
Before your departure, the Board of Examiners must approve the study programme you
compiled for your study period at the hosting university. Be aware that, without this
approval, your results will not be included in your list of marks after your return.
How do you prepare your stay abroad?
There are a number of things to arrange before you can go abroad: the application procedure
at the host universities, a housing request, etc. Keep in mind that hosting universities all
have different application deadlines. The deadlines for the grants also vary according to your
dates of departure and arrival.
This being said, remember that you first have to be officially nominated as an exchange
student by the Exchange Office before you can start applying at the host university.
When should you start preparing your stay abroad?
For an Erasmus exchange, it is recommended to contact the Exchange Office at least 8
months before the start of the semester abroad.
For a MFE application, please pass by 4 months before the deadline.
A3.3.2 Exchange Office
The Exchange Officers for FMNS are:
- Henriëtte Mulder (at Zernike)
- Margriet Hulshof (at ADL)
They can advise and help you complete all the necessary procedures.
You can contact them by e-mail:
 [email protected]
 [email protected]
Or come by during the Office Hours:
 Exchange Office, Bernoulliborg, room 5161.0050
 ADL 1, room 3213.0017
For additional information, see:
 www.rug.nl/fwn/informatievoor/studenten/studerenbuitenland
A3.4 NON-DEGREE-PROGRAMME-RELATED SUPPORT
During your studies you may run into all kinds of problems and questions. The following
organizations may be able to help you:
A3.4.1 University Student Desk
If you have any questions about application, admission, registration or deregistration,
study delay, student finance and other financial matters, please consult the knowledge
base at:
 www.rug.nl/education/hoezithet
If you cannot find the answer to your question, just click the contact button to send an
e-mail.
You can also contact the University Service Desk (USD) at the Academy Building about
any of these issues. If the USD cannot help you, they will refer you on, for example to the
Student Service Centre. You can make an appointment for the SSC student counsellors’
office hours via the USD. At the end of August and the first weeks of the academic year
the USD holds office at the Zernike Complex as well.
For the contact details and the opening hours of the USD, go to:
 www.rug.nl/usd
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29
A3.4.2 Student Service Centre (SSC)
The Student Service Centre is the student counselling expertise centre of the University
of Groningen. The student counsellors, psychologists and trainers work together to
provide an integrated package of student support with the aim of helping students with
their studies. They can prevent or remove possible impediments to your study progress
so that you can develop fully during your time at university.
The SSC has a wide range of support facilities – information and advice, individual
sessions, short-term therapy and a wide variety of workshops and training courses.
For more information see the Student Portal.
Information, advice and counselling
The student counsellors have been appointed by the University to provide confidential
counselling for students. They deal with all kinds of non-degree-programme-related
matters such as significant study delay (more than 3 months (15ECTS)), legal matters,
complaints, objections and appeals, but also questions concerning choice of degree
programme, financial help and personal and confidential matters.
You can make an appointment with a student counsellor via the Student Service Centre,
Uurwerkersgang 10, telephone: (050) 363 8066 or via the University Student Desk
(USD), Broerstraat 5, telephone: (050) 363 8004.
Short-term therapy
Not everyone will have an easy time adjusting to a new environment, strange customs
and a different language. This does not necessarily mean that you will need professional
help, but if problems begin to affect your studies and your personal life, you can always
ask the psychological counsellors for help. This help is available to all students at the
University. An initial assessment is free of charge, follow-up sessions will cost EUR 40
(once-off payment).
For more information, see the Student Portal.
You can make an appointment with a psychological counsellor via the Student Service
Location:
Uurwerkersgang 10, 9712 EJ Groningen
Telephone:
(050) 363 8066
E-mail:
[email protected]
Training courses and workshops
Do you have a tendency to procrastinate? Are you not sure how to deal with Multiple choice exams? Is learning how to study effectively still a challenge for you? For all these
study issues and more you can find a course or workshop at the Student Service Centre.
Please visit the Student Portal for more information.
30
General part
Open office hours for International Students
Living and studying in a foreign country is a great experience, but sometimes problems
can stand in the way of studying successfully. Do you doubt your study methods? Are you
encountering study problems? Or are you experiencing personal difficulties? Come to the
open office hours for international students at the Student Service Centre of the
University of Groningen. An expert from the Student Service Centre will try to help you
solve your problems. In some cases they might refer you to a student counsellor , a
psychological counsellor or one of the workshops of the Student Service Centre.
Participation is free. You don’t have to register. Just come in during the hours that are
stated on the Student Portal.and report to the information desk at the Student Service
Centre, Uurwerkersgang 10 in Groningen.
A3.4.3 International Service Desk (ISD)
The International Service Desk (ISD) provides information to foreign students,
prospective students and foreign researchers, specifically with regard to studying, doing
a PhD and temporary residence at the University of Groningen for research or other
purposes. The ISD also assists foreign guests staying in Groningen or those responsible
for their stay with any queries they may have about issues such as regulations relating to
foreigners, study advice, medical care, financial matters, accommodation, and fac ilities
and official organizations within the city. The ISD also organizes and coordinates a
number of introductory and social activities jointly with organizations such as Wings, the
Global Club and the Foreign Guest Club. In some cases, the ISD is solely responsible for
looking after foreign guests – if, for example, they have been invited to Groningen as
guests of the Board of the University or have come to the University of Groningen within
the framework of a joint project with a developing country.
For more information, see:
 www.rug.nl/education/international-students/international-service-desk
A3.4.4 International students’ association ESN-Groningen
ESN-Groningen coordinates and stimulates the international activities of the student
community in Groningen. It was founded in 1988. ESN-Groningen is part of the Erasmus
Student Network (ESN) and works closely with the University of Groningen. One of the
functions of ESN-Groningen is to support international students. This includes finding a
student mentor – a Dutch student who can help with practical matters and aid foreign
students in getting to know the city of Groningen and student facilities such as the
libraries and the sports centre. ESN mentors also ensure that the first taste of student life
in Groningen is an enjoyable one. During your stay in Groningen, ESN-Groningen will
organize various activities to make you feel at home, such as an introductory weeke nd, a
weekly social in the pub Rumba, trips to the island of Schiermonnikoog and to
Amsterdam, ice-skating, sailing, theme parties and much more. ESN-Groningen wants
you have a great time in Groningen. A small-scale activity such as a dinner or movie is
organized every Sunday. And last but not least, ESN-Groningen publishes a magazine
especially for international students, the WaM.
Location:
Telephone:
E-mail:
Website:
Pelsterstraat 23, 9711 KH Groningen
(050) 363 7176
[email protected]
www.esn-groningen.nl
If you want to be kept informed of all the upcoming events and activities send a mail to
their e-mail address.
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31
A3.4.5 Careers advice before, during & after your degree
NEXT
The University of Groningen wants to offer its students the best possible
facilities to prepare and develop their careers. Within the framework of
NEXT, various activities are organized to help students make choices –
and study choices in particular – and prepare them for the job market.
In order to achieve this, NEXT is working actively with faculties, study
associations, alumni organizations and other providers in the field of
careers services. Announcements can be recognized by the NEXT logo.
Visit for more information:
 www.rug.nl/next
The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences will make student career events,
student-assistant positions and regular job vacancies related to their degree programmes
available in the Student Portal at the tab Career.
A3.5 HEALTH AND SAFETY
A3.5.1 Fire and emergencies
Dial (050 363) 8050 in the event of fire or an accident. Clearly explain the situation and
location. For other less urgent matters, call (050 363) 5520 to report malfunctions or
irregularities.
A3.5.2 Computers and RSI
Students spend a lot of time working at computers and are at risk of developing RSI
complaints. RSI is the abbreviation for Repetitive Strain Injury and is a generic term for
all conditions involving the neck, shoulders, arms, wrists and hands. These conditions
can become chronic and lead to incapacity for work and cause serious limitations to
everyday life.
Symptoms
RSI symptoms may vary from stiffness, pain and tingling sensations to loss of strength in
the above-mentioned body parts. Initially, the symptoms occur only while working at a
computer, but at later stages they also occur during rest. Ultimately, the complaints can
occur continuously, causing pain during even the simplest of actions or even rendering
them completely impossible.
How to prevent RSI
There is no standard method to prevent RSI. The measures you can take mainly involve
relaxation of the muscles and the mind, and stimulation of blood flow. To minimize the
risks of developing RSI, five points should be considered. This is also known as the ‘5W
approach’.
Workload
Undertake regular time planning and prevent creating peaks in workload. If necessary,
take a ‘study skills’ course at the Student Service Centre (tel. (050) 363 8066).
Realize that your productivity is higher if you take regular breaks than if you work
without interruption.
Try to keep things in perspective – it will help you avoid working for too long, stimulate
you to take regular breaks and help you unwind. If you do not feel on top of things drop
by your academic advisor, student counsellor or student psychologist.
32
General part
Work organization
Incorporate as much variation in your work as possible: reading, writing, typing and
browsing on the internet. Also alternate between easy and difficult tasks. Use the
shortcut keys on your keyboard more often than your mouse. Take regular breaks. Alert
your tutors if you are allocated too many deadlines or too many writing assignments at
the same time.
Working hours
Do not work on your computer for more than five or six hours a day. Do not forget to
count the hours spent gaming and browsing on the internet. Special software has been
developed to remind you to take breaks. Take regular breaks. Take a minimum break of
ten minutes every two hours of work at a computer.
Workplace
Locate the screen directly in front of you, not too close. Avoid having to work with a
turned neck. Ensure the top of the screen is at eye level. Avoid annoying reflections from
windows. Use large font sizes, so that you do not have to lean forward to read the letters.
You need a good chair that permits the height of the back and armrests to be adjusted.
The back of the chair should mainly provide support to your lower back. Armrests relieve
the shoulders. Adjust them so that the upper arms loosely touch them and form a right
angle with your forearms. If necessary, search for more information on the internet on
how to equip your workplace. Report unsatisfactory computer workplaces to the
Occupational Health, Safety and Environment Coordinator. Never work for longer than
two hours a day at a laptop. Connect an unattached keyboard and mouse to your laptop,
and place the screen at eye level. Ensure you have a good workplace at home.
Work posture
See to it that you are in good physical condition. Sit upright and make sure that your
upper and lower legs are at right angles when your feet are flat on the ground. Keep your
wrists extended when using the keyboard and mouse. Perform regular physical exercise
during work on the computer.
Finally
Drink a lot of water (the resulting visits to the toilet make natural breaks). Take early
complaints seriously, check the risks applicable to your situation and find a solution. Do
not ignore your body’s warning signals. If necessary, visit your family doctor or the
physiotherapist at your sports centre.
A lot of information about RSI can be found on the internet. For further questions or
advice, contact the Occupational Health, Safety and Environment Coordinator:
Mr A. Weitenberg, or the Head of the Department of Occupational Safety, Mr J. Jager.
E-mail: [email protected]
Telephone: (050) 363 4618
E-mail: [email protected]
Telephone: (050) 363 4427
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33
A4
FACILITIES
A4.1 BUILDINGS
The teaching and support facilities of the faculty are accommodated in a number of
buildings:
- Linnaeusborg (buildings U, 5171–5174): Centre for Life Sciences,
Nijenborgh 7, 9747 AG Groningen; telephone reception (050) 363 2021.
Open: 8:00 – 20:00.
- Bernoulliborg (building V, 5161): ESC – Mathematics – Computing Science
Artificial Intelligence, Nijenborgh 9, 9747 AG Groningen; telephone reception
(050) 363 6868.
Open: 8:00 – 20:00.
- Nijenborgh 4 (buildings X, 5111–5121): Chemistry–Physics–Environmental
Sciences – Industrial Engineering and Management – Nanoscience,
Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen; telephone reception (050) 363 4133.
Open: 8:00 – 20:00.
- Kapteynborg (building J, 5419): Astronomy, Landleven 12, 9747 AD Groningen;
telephone secretary (050) 3634074
Open during office hours, ring the bell to enter the building
- ADL1 (buildings 3211–3217/3219): ESD, Medical Sciences, Dentistry and
Pharmacy, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen; telephone reception
(050) 363 8000.
Open: Mon–Thurs: 8:00 – 20:30; Fri: 8:00 – 17:30.
For a map, route description and more information about the buildings, see:
 www.rug.nl/fwn/organization/locaties
A4.1.1 House rules, regulations
Staff, students, visiting researchers and visitors are required to obey the facility house
rules.
- Smoking ban. In accordance with Dutch law there is a general ban on smoking in
public buildings;
- Mobile phones should be switched off in teaching rooms, libraries, laboratories
and rooms with computer facilities;
- It is absolutely forbidden to eat or drink in the laboratories, teaching rooms,
libraries and rooms with computer facilities;
- Bikes must be stored in the bicycle racks;
- The University accepts no liability for theft or lost property.
Everyone who works or studies at FMNS will come into contact with matters of safety,
health and the environment. Many national rules and regulations about health have been
formulated in the Working Conditions Act. The Environmental Protectio n Act contains a
lot of rules concerning the environment. The consequences of these regulations for
students and staff members are described in several manuals available on the internet:
 myuniversity.rug.nl/infonet/medewerkers/fwn/arbomilieuveiligheid
You will be expected to have read these rules, particularly those concerning important
matters such as the location of emergency exits, evacuation procedures and the location
of the fire extinguishers. The rules on safety and care for the environment must be
observed and complied with.
34
General part
It is absolutely forbidden:
- To eat or drink in the laboratories;
- To drink from laboratory glasswork;
- To store food in laboratory fridges;
- To prepare food in laboratory ovens.
Before you start working in a laboratory:
- Take note of the safety regulations;
- Locate the emergency exits and escape routes;
- Locate the fire extinguishers, absorption equipment for chemicals, fire blankets,
fire showers, first-aid boxes and eye-wash fountains;
- Always wear safety goggles and a cotton laboratory coat;
- Working in a laboratory without the supervision of a staff member is not
permitted!
Building rules: Faculty of Medical Sciences
- All bikes should be placed in the bike parking facilities below building 3219 or in the
bicycle racks next to this building. Nowhere else!
- Food and drink are prohibited in the lecture halls with the exception of bottled water;
- All lectures start at the time indicated in the timetables. Someone from the Education
Support office will be present (Keuningzaal and 3219.0061) 15 minutes before the
scheduled start of the lecture to give technical support where required;
- Doors to the lecture halls will be closed shortly after the start of the lecture to avoid
interruption from late comers. It is possible to leave the room at anytime;
- Please be quiet. Noise, even whispering is distracting for lecturers and fellow
students.
Protocol for removal of bikes at Faculty of Medical Sciences
The Faculty of Medical Sciences has strict rules for the management of bike parking around
the Antonius Deusinglaan 1 and 2 buildings because bikes which are not parked in the
parking facilities cause a lot of inconvenience: bikes which are not parked correctly will be
fixed on the spot and removed upon repeated violation.
A4.2 LIBRARIES
The mission of the library of the University of Groningen is to support and promote
academic teaching and research by providing high-quality information services, the aim
is to achieve this by adopting a demand-oriented and innovative approach.
The University of Groningen has one central University Library (UL) and three location
libraries: the University Library Zernike, the Central Medical Library and the Library of
Behavioural and Social Sciences. Many facilities are provided collectively by these
libraries. There is, for example, one central catalogue and one lending system, and a large
number of online databases can be accessed through the university network.
A4.2.1 University Library
The central University Library (UL, or in Dutch ‘UB’) functions as a facility centre for the
entire university community – for faculties and library users. The collections of Arts,
Archeology, Law, Philosophy, Theology and Religious Studies have been moved to the UL
recently, and are available in the study halls. For students there are lots of facilities and
there is room to study. Furthermore, the library holds vast collections of reference and
teaching material, either available in the study halls or in the closed depots.
Interdisciplinary works, bibliographical material and a number of special collections can
also be found in the UL.
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Electronic library
An important facility is the electronic library, for consulting catalogues, e-books and ejournals, online databases, etc. Word processing facilities are also provided. Access to
this information is limited to students and staff of the University of Groningen, and is for
personal study or research only.
A new catalogue has been introduced recently, SmartCat: a catalogue containing all
printed and electronic works owned by the University of Groningen libraries, with direct
links to the full text. Furthermore, the University Library provides access to a large
number of academic journals online, see:
 myuniversity.rug.nl/infonet/studenten/bibliotheek/zoeken/elektijdschr/
You can access almost all online catalogues, databases, e-books, e-journals, etc. from any
computer within the RuG network, and, even outside the campus through Connect, see:
 myuniversity.rug.nl/infonet/studenten/bibliotheek/zoeken/connect
Borrowing
You can use your University Card to borrow publications from the libraries of the
University of Groningen. The loan period for books is four weeks unless otherwise stated.
Please return books or renew the loan before the loan period expires.
In general, loans can be renewed online through SmartCat by clicking on Borrower
Information, provided that the loan period has not expired, that nobody has put a hold
on the book and there are no fines outstanding. Borrowed material can be returned to
any UL location. You can e-mail any questions to:
 [email protected]
For more information, go to the Student Portal.
Address University Library
Location:
Broerstraat 4, 9712 CP Groningen
Telephone:
(050) 3635020 and/or (050) 3635000
E-mail:
[email protected]
A4.2.2 Library at Zernike campus
The UL Zernike is the joint library of three faculties located on the Zernike Campus:
Economics and Business, Mathematics and Natural Sciences and Spatial Sciences. The
library is responsible for the scientific information supply for students and staff of these
faculties, and offers an extensive collection of journals, books and databases, printed and/or
electronic. The electronic collection can be found through the Student Portal.
You can access most databases from anywhere, using the internet. For instance your home
computer. In the UL Zernike you can find literature in one of the discipline-related
collections, you can borrow or return books, you can use one of the 84 university
workstations, or simply find a quiet place to study. The library offers tutorials and support in
literature searches. For instance an information literacy training and RefWorks workshops.
Visit our library and have a look at what it has to offer. You are very welcome!
For current opening hours, address details and a range of scientific information and
workshops, please go to the Student Portal.
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General part
Here you will find both general and location-specific information.
Address University Library Zernike
Location:
Nettelbosje 2, 9747 EA Groningen
2nd floor of the Duisenberg building
Telephone:
(050) 363 3708
E-mail:
[email protected]
A4.2.3 Library of the University Medical Center Groningen
More information on the Central Medical Library can be found on the Student Portal.
Address Central Medical Library
Location:
Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen
Winkelstraat 1 or Poortweg 12, 4th floor, Y 4.202
Telephone:
(050) 363 3048 and/or (050) 361 2596
E-mail:
[email protected]
A4.3 INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION CHANNELS
A4.3.1 Personal account
After enrolment, you will receive a student number and a personal computer account by
email. A student computer account, consisting of a login name and a password, provides
access to several web-systems and storage servers. This includes:
- Access to the Faculty Novell servers, for the use of computer applications;
- Access to the Internet;
- Use of a personal data storage server;
- Use of an e-mail account;
- Access to Nestor, the electronic learning environment of the University of
Groningen;
- Access to ProgRESS WWW, where you can enrol in courses and exams, and view
your study results.
You will need the following to log in: the name or address of the server, a login name and
a password. Your login name is made up of your student number preceded by an ‘s’. Your
initial password will be sent per email. You can change your password at:
 myuniversity.rug.nl/infonet/studenten/ict/werkplek/
For information about IT facilities for students accessible with your account see the IT
knowledge base for students on the Student Portal.
A4.3.2 Student Portal
The Student Portal is a protected environment that contains information for students of
the University of Groningen. You can log in with your student number.
Personalize your dashboard
Once you log in to the Student Portal you will be taken straight to your personal
homepage, known as the Dashboard. A small part of the Dashboard contains information
for everyone. The rest can be furnished to taste, using what are known as widgets. You
can, for example, install widgets for Twitter, the UK, the CIT Service Desk, the Library or
My News. Have a look in the Widget Store (via the button Options on the Dashboard) to
get an idea.
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37
All information from the RUG Planner, ProgRESS WWW and Nestor, to name but a few
applications, are also easily accessible via your own Dashboard.
The Student Portal is also the primary source for the Education Support Desk to provide
you with up-to-date information concerning your study program. This involves important
announcements about your program (such as deadlines, procedures, changes,
workshops), but also documents that you will need to apply for graduation, a minor or a
bachelor project, documents about studying abroad, information about minor, master
possibilities, etc.
Students are urged to check this site daily, to avoid missing important events. All
information that is published on the Student Portal is considered to be known by
students. Practically, this means that any problems arising from not having read the
information on the Student Portal, will be solely the responsibility of the student.
A4.3.3 E-mail

googleapps.rug.nl
Your e-mail address is one of the primary means of personal communication of the
University and the Faculty. For example, if one of the University employees (teacher,
academic advisor, etc.) would like to send you a personal message, he/she will send it to
your University e-mail address. Your e-mail address consists of [email protected].
Your name is made up of your initials and your surname, separated by dots.
Your University e-mail may also be used by the university to send you important
messages such as requests for enrolment for certain courses or alterations to the
timetables.
Students are expected to check their mailbox every day. For your own convenience , you
may choose to forward your University mail to your private mail (use the settings after
login).
The University of Groningen uses Google Apps for Education which gives students
permanent access to their e-mail (Gmail), calendar (Google Calendar), chat (Google
Talk), documents (Google Drive) and web pages (Google Sites).
For more information, see the Student Portal.
You can access your Google Apps University of Groningen account via:
 googleapps.rug.nl
This is where you log in with your student number and password (RUG account). The
first time you log in, you will see a screen with a request from SURFconext. Click on Yes,
share this information to activate your Google Apps for Education account.
38
General part
A4.3.4 Ocasys

www.rug.nl/ocasys
Ocasys is the university course catalogue. It contains information about the content of
courses, learning objectives of courses, necessary literature of courses, assessment form
and computation of final grade of courses, and the general outline of the degree
programmes. You can search in Ocasys for courses as well as for degree programmes.
However, the full description of the degree programmes can only be found in the
programme specific part of the studyguide.
Ocasys serves with regard to the assessment form of courses as an appendix of the
Teaching and Examination Regulations (see Section C1.2). It contains the official
information about the way courses are assessed.
A4.3.5 Schedules

rooster.rug.nl
You can compose your own schedule by searching for courses or a degree programme.
Please check the schedules on a regular basis, changes are still being made.
A4.3.6 Nestor

www.nestor.rug.nl
Nestor is the electronic learning environment of the University of Groningen. Lecturers
use Nestor to provide information about courses, to set electronic examinations and to
exchange documents within their students. Students use Nestor to read important
announcements, to cooperate with group members and to submit assignments.
You will be enrolled in a Nestor-course environment after you enrol for the specific
course or corresponding exam in ProgRESS WWW. However, enrolment in a Nestor
course does not mean you are allowed to participate in the course itself, therefor you
need to be registered in ProgRESS WWW for the course (see also Section A2.4).
A4.3.7 ProgRESS WWW

progRESSwww.nl/rug
ProgRESS WWW is a web-based application used by the University of Groningen.
Students need to register for modules and exams well in advance. You may also use
ProgRESS WWW to view your study results.
A4.3.8 Student PCs
You can use PCs at various University facilities by logging onto the student network. You
will then have access to applications, your own data on the home directory (X: \) and the
internet. Some of the rooms are used for practicals and courses, but when these are not
scheduled you can use the room for self-study. Printers are also available for students.
A4.3.9 Usage rules
Using the University IT facilities implies that you agree to the usage rules for University
IT facilities as published on:
 www.rug.nl/rc/security/aup
Users of the university computer systems should be aware they are not the only users of
these computers. Many computers are multi-user systems, and the users of these
computers belong to a community. Therefore, the ground rule on which this AUP
(Acceptable Use Policy) is based is similar to the ground rule on which traffic is based:
General part
39
users of the University computer systems may not endanger these systems, nor may they
hinder other users.
Some of the implications of this ground rule are that users are not allowed to send
unsolicited e-mail or try to obtain or use other users’ passwords, either accidentally or
‘for fun’. Abusing University computer systems may result in disciplinary
action!
A4.4 PRINTING, COPYING AND SCANNING
Students can use the multifunctional printers for printing, copying and scanning.
Printing facilities are located close to the student computer rooms. The printers and
copiers for students have equipment for reading and devaluating the card and choosing
the job to print.
You can pay your printouts with a credit on your University Card. This credit can be
topped up through MyOrder or through Webdeposit. Identify yourself at a printer with a
University Card or by entering your student number and password, to release the
machine or print job.
For more information, see the Student Portal.
B
Bachelor’s degree
programme
Artificial
Intelligence
42
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the degree programme-specific section of the study guide, which supplements
the Faculty-wide general part. This section contains information specific to the Bachelor’s
degree programme in Artificial Intelligence (AI), such as the structure of the degree
programme and the course unit descriptions.
As a student of AI you will often follow course units at other faculties. As these course units
may have different regulations, for example with regard to resits, course unit registration
and timetables, this section of the study guide will contain more extensive
information than the general section. This applies in particular to the following
matters:
- The structure of the academic year;
- Registering for course units and exams;
- Information provision.
Please read the degree programme-specific section of the study guide carefully!
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
43
B1
THE FIELD OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
This chapter will briefly discuss the field of Artificial Intelligence – what does Artificial
Intelligence mean, what does this science study, which fields of science serve as its sources of
inspiration, and what can you do with a degree in Artificial Intelligence?
B1.1 WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the science that aims to understand information processing by
intelligent autonomous systems (for example a human being or animal) to such an extent
that functional models can be created which, like their natural examples, are able to
adequately process information in a complex environment. The differences in behaviour
between the model and the natural system will teach us something about both systems. This
approach will enable the development of new fundamental insights and the realization of
functional applications.
The invention of the computer was soon followed by the introduction of computer chess as
the central challenge within the study of Artificial Intelligence. In the meantime we have
discovered that playing chess is a relatively simple task for a computer, whereas various
everyday types of information processing (such as perception, reasoning with uncertainty
factors, motor planning and language processing) are much more difficult to simulate. In
addition, it has turned out that natural intelligence encompasses a lot of important factors
that did not appear in the chess studies. In recent years, great progress has been made in the
field of research on autonomous systems (developing intelligence in robots) and on how
people use their cognitive skills. The insights acquired can be applied, for example, in
optimizing human-machine interaction.
B1.1.1 Basic fields of study
The following fields of study serve as great sources of inspiration for Artificial Intelligence:
cognitive science, psychology, computing science, linguistics, philosophy, biology and
neurosciences. For decades or even centuries, all these fields have studied intelligence
(including human intelligence), thinking and reasoning, perception and behaviour, each
from its own perspective. Artificial Intelligence considers it vital to combine the knowledge
and methodologies from the various fields of study in order to reach a better understanding
of the essence of artificial and natural information processing. The concepts of knowledge
and cognition play an important role here. As the aim of Artificial Intelligence, building
functional models (or 'understanding by building'), differs from those of the existing
fundamental sciences, the field is increasingly developing into a separate discipline.
Cognitive science
Cognitive science focuses on human knowledge and human thinking. This includes, for
example, mental processes, which everyone will immediately recognize as thought processes,
such as conscious thinking and logical reasoning. These thought processes play an important
role in mathematics, as well as, for example, in playing chess. Solving a maths problem and
playing a game of chess require a great deal of mental effort. In order to play chess you need
a certain level of intelligence.
However, cognitive science not only deals with conscious thought processes like solving
maths problems, it also studies unconscious problems such as perceiving and recognizing
objects. Our brain plays an active role in the process of perception, which can also cause
several forms of optical illusion. We do not see the world exactly as it is – the incoming visual
information is supplemented, and when our brain incorrectly supplements missing
information, we may end up seeing something that is not really there. Cognitive science
studies both conscious and unconscious mental processes and states.
44
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
The brain, the way it works and what it is or is not capable of, play an important role in
almost everything we do. Brain research is therefore a vital part of cognitive science research.
In addition, the brain is a valuable source of information to researchers who want to develop
functional models.
However, cognitive science covers more than just theory. In recent decades, a number of
important developments have taken place in the field of technology, due to which people are
increasingly confronted in their everyday life with machines and appliances – just think of all
the equipment that the average household today includes: clock radios, VCRs, sound
installations, microwave ovens, PCs, the central heating thermostat. Unfortunately, until
recently the development of new machines only concentrated on the possibilities that
technology offered, while the users of these machines, with all their capabilities and
limitations, were overlooked in the design process. As a result, many people find it hard to
get to grips with their equipment and lots of unnecessary mistakes are made by people
operating machines, which in some cases has led to accidents and even major disasters.
Fortunately, increasing attention has recently been paid to the future users in the
development of new equipment. The knowledge required for this is largely acquired via
cognitive science.
Psychology
Psychologists study human behaviour – and since human behaviour cannot be isolated from
mental processes and states, psychology has also always focused on human thought. The
subfield of experimental psychology in particular concentrates on cognitive skills such as
information processes, thought, attention, decision-making and learning. In addition,
experimental psychology also pays ample attention to the relationship between mental
processes and the physical and functional structure of the brain. For example, researchers
ask the question which processes take place in the brain when someone tries to retrieve
certain information from memory or takes a decision. In order to study the relationship
between mental processes and brain structure, technologies have been developed that enable
psychologists to view the brain without damaging it. These technologies enable them to
study what happens inside the brain of a health test subject while taking a decision or during
a cognitive process such as understanding a word or a series of words.
Computing Science
The field of computing science offers one important tool used in Artificial Intelligence: the
computer. The computer is very useful in testing cognitive theories and models. In addition,
computers can in principle carry out certain mental tasks very adequately. The computer was
initially deployed to perform tasks that human beings in general are not very good at, such as
making complicated calculations and managing large databases. In recent years, however, it
has also increasingly been used to do things that people are also capable of, such as
communicating in spoken or written language, solving problems and carrying out complex
actions – in other words, typical cognitive skills. Simulating cognitive activities on a
computer provides more insight into the skills that are needed to perform such activities and
that human beings thus apparently have. In addition, it enables automation of tasks that,
although they require a certain degree of intelligence, are simply too boring to be done by
humans. Pattern recognition and machine learning are two subfields within computing
science that mainly focus on these topics.
Linguistics
One typically human cognitive skill is the use of language. Language is one of the most
complicated subfields of cognitive science because there are many factors involved in
language use. In order to use language, people need more than just implicit knowledge of
their mother tongue – knowledge of the world is also essential when it comes to
understanding language. Moreover, language is a form of interaction between people, which
makes it all the more complex. Linguists study the structure of language and the way
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
45
language is processed, and linguistic research focuses on the sounds that are part of a certain
language, the way words and sentences are constructed, the relationship between sentence
structure and meaning, and universal and language-specific characteristics. Systematically
investigating the structure and associated meanings of sentences in one or more languages
provides an understanding of the underlying systems of language. Psycholinguists study the
way children acquire their native language and the language disorders that may emerge
during the development phase or at later stages (for example as a result of a stroke). The
field of computer linguistics develops computational models for language processing.
Philosophy
Philosophy forms the basis for virtually all sciences, including Artificial Intelligence and
cognitive science. Philosophy focuses on the question of how science should be practised.
How can observations be linked to theories? A more recent philosophical question is how
scientific theories can be tested using computers. Another subfield of philosophy is logic, the
theory of correct argumentation. A range of logical systems are used both in computing
science and linguistics. Finally, one example of an important philosophical issue is the mindbody problem, a question that is crucial to cognitive science and which philosophers have
been concerned with for centuries. The question is: how can a physical body produce a
seemingly non-physical mind? In other words, is the fact that we are capable of thought the
result of the physical characteristics of our brain (the material that the brain is made up of,
the currents running through the neurons), or is it possible that there are systems with
different physical characteristics which may also be able to think (such as a computer or
computer program)? Needless to say, the answer to this question is crucial to Artificial
Intelligence.
Neurosciences
The field of neurosciences focuses on the biological aspects of cognition. Neuroscientists
study the physical aspects of the brain, individual brain cells, the links between brain cells in
networks, and the molecular and chemical processes that take place inside the brain.
Neuroinformatics, a subject field at the interface between neurosciences and Artificial
Intelligence, uses computers to simulate networks of brain cells. These computer versions of
our brains, also known as neural networks, are used in artificial perception and signal
processing. This type of computer system appears to have great application potential, for
example in designing intelligent prostheses that can be linked to the human nervous system.
Think, for example, of artificial eyes or ears that function just like real body parts and can
send information to our nervous system in exactly the same way.
Biophysics and Biology
In recent years, the field of Artificial Intelligence has become increasingly aware that
intelligence should be interpreted from the principle of 'embodied and situated cognition',
according to which intelligence is expressed in beings that have their own body separate
from the physical environment in which they are situated.
Autonomous systems (robots) must develop a variety of practical skills in their interaction
with their environment, via perception, motor skills and navigation. Conscious reasoning,
cognition and language did not emerge until a rather late stage in evolution. Nature can
therefore teach us some valuable lessons. The complex structure of the anthill, for example,
has taught us that complicated systems may be based on the presence of large numbers of
'actors' – in this case ants – which in themselves are relatively simple. Coordination of
behaviour, as in animal herds or bird flocks, may also provide insight into the type of information processing that is needed to coordinate the behaviour of autonomous actors
(usually referred to as 'agents') in a software environment. However, biology is by no means
the only source of inspiration – biomechanics and psychophysics can reveal the limitations
within which a cognitive system can develop intelligent behaviour. We now know, for
example, that a natural cognitive system does not need to direct its locomotor system in
great detail from one millisecond to the next – we make clever use of the mass and elasticity
46
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
of our muscles to plan fluent movements. Psychophysics can teach us how we merge sounds
and images into a coherent interpretation of, for example, speech.
Science and Engineering
In addition to the fields of science discussed above, engineering and technology research also
play an essential role in Artificial Intelligence at the University of Groningen. The term
'engineering' is used to denote academic and professional subject fields that focus mainly on
the natural sciences. Developing and building a machine, for example, is an engineering
activity. However, since the invention of the computer, the term 'engineering' can also refer
to computer programs. A computer program can simulate actions from physical reality, but
it can also perform cognitive tasks itself. By emphasizing the design of computer programs
(and machines in general) that are somehow related to intelligence, Artificial Intelligence is
involved in the application of cognitive scientific knowledge. Programming skills and
knowledge of measurement and control engineering, signal processing and software
engineering are essential in the design of such applications. However, AI is more than just an
engineering degree programme due to the emphasis on the academic justification of the
models and systems. It is great if you can get a certain system to work, but it's even better if
you can describe a solution that works for all systems.
B1.1.2 What can you do with a degree in Artificial Intelligence?
Graduates of AI are widely deployable in the field of information technology. The career
options available to well-educated students vary from software engineer working in a private
company (for example in the field of face recognition, search engines) or the government to
game programmer. At the other hand you may decide to continue your studies and pursue a
Master’s degree. Once you have completed your Bachelor's degree you can choose between
two Master's degree programmes at the University of Groningen: Artificial Intelligence and
Human-Machine Communication. The Master's study guide discusses these degree
programmes in more detail.
B1.2 THE BACHELOR’S
INTELLIGENCE
DEGREE
PROGRAMME
IN
ARTIFICIAL
The Bachelor's degree programme in Artificial Intelligence takes three years. The first year
comprises a number of compulsory course units. From the second year onwards you will be
able to choose some of your own course units and specialize, for example, in the fields of
cognitive sciences or artificial intelligence.
The propaedeutic phase (the first year of the degree programme) aims to impart basic
knowledge of the disciplines that play important roles in Artificial Intelligence and to provide
an overview of the most important aspects of Artificial Intelligence. You will follow
introductory course units in almost all the sciences discussed above that contribute to the
field of AI. The second and third years concentrate on four major topics in AI: Knowledge
and Agent Technology, Cognitive Models, Language and Autonomous Perceptive Systems.
Introductory course units will provide an overview of each of these topics and will usually
include small assignments to practise with. In your second and third year you will follow
several practicals in these fields and work on one or more large assignments. The Bachelor's
degree programme is rounded off with a project, in which you will work on a concrete
research assignment.
A detailed overview of course units and the structure of the degree programme can be found
in Chapters B2 and B3.
Once you have finished your Bachelor’s degree you can continue on to a Master’s degree
programme in the Netherlands or abroad. Note: In former times students with a Bachelor's
degree in AI were unconditionally admitted to all AI Master's degree programmes in the
Netherlands. In the academic year 2014-2015 the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
47
Science disestablished the obligation to offer a continuative Master’s degree programme (in
Dutch: doorstroommaster) for Bachelor’s degree programmes. Hence, there is a large
chance that admission to specific Master’s degree programmes will incorporate a selection
procedure in the coming years. However, on a national level there will be always one
Master’s degree programme available without a selection procedure. Of course, we will keep
you informed about the developments. The University of Groningen offers two AI Master's
degree programmes. For a short description please read the text below. More detailed
information can be found in the study guides for the relevant Master's degree programmes.
B1.3 THE MASTER’S
INTELLIGENCE
DEGREE
PROGRAMME
IN
ARTIFICIAL
This two-year Master’s degree programme focuses on multi-agent systems, machine learning
and autonomous systems (robotics). In addition, attention is paid to knowledge technology.
Both logic and statistical approaches (machine learning and neural networks) play important
roles in solving problems and building models.
The Master’s degree programme centres on developing systems that display forms of
intelligent behaviour. The departmental robotics lab is equipped with different commercial
robots and drones and a robot built by the department itself, called Alice. This robot is
equipped with Kinects to apply image processing and a laser to map its surroundings. Alice is
able to do household chores and participates in robotics competitions all over the world.
Intelligent agents – programs that behave like robots in a software environment, where they
have to cooperate, negotiate, etc. – fall into a second domain. In the Master’s specialization
phase, the different technologies are discussed in more detail and more systematically,
particularly from the perspective of logic. An essential characteristic of this degree
programme is its active working method – the programme requires an active attitude on the
part of the student.
B1.3.1 What jobs are in store for you?
This Master’s degree programme is suitable both for students who would like to move on to
the business world and those who prefer a career in academic research. Below is an overview
of the most important jobs that MSc graduates of AI could fill.
Developer of autonomous systems
Every intelligent system, be it a human being or a computer program, functions within an
environment. This environment can be observed by means of perception and influenced by
means of actions. Even though the environment influences the system, an intelligent system
also has a certain degree of autonomy, which enables it to realize predefined goals. Each of
these four components – the intelligent system, perception, action and environment – can be
fleshed out in different ways.
In the case of robotics, the ‘real world’ is the environment, which means that a robots
perception and action components must translate the world into the computer inside the
robot. To be able to independently navigate in the human world, robots must also be able to
pick up relevant information. The graduate in AI investigates reading systems, which can, for
example, help a robot in a rescue operation to navigate in an unknown building on the basis
of texts on signposts and room numbers. Another example of such reading systems is
‘Googling’ in historical manuscripts with unfamiliar handwriting. The opposite happens
when working with virtual environments, such as a car or flight simulator. In this case the
system is a human being, whereas a computer generates the environment artificially. A great
advantage of such simulators is that they can imitate situations that may be very rare or
dangerous in real life. Know-how from the field of autonomous systems can help us model
actors (opponents) displaying almost natural behaviour in a virtual environment.
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Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Designer of intelligent multi-agent systems
An important example of an autonomous system is a software agent – a concept introduced
above. The relevant components of a software agent are all computational. The agent’s
environment may be the internet, for example, and the agent may perform actions by
establishing network connections.
Information on the internet is often stored in the form of natural language, so an agent may
need to be able to process such language to a certain extent. Mobile agents can even move
from one computer to another. An example of a software agent is a program that manages
your e-mail, discarding information that you are not interested in and sorting everything that
is left, for example by content or by priority. Such personal agents can learn from the user’s
feedback on their actions.
More complex problems that involve different types of expertise can be solved by means of
multi-agent systems, in which several software agents work together. An example is the
system that assists the air traffic control department at Schiphol Airport in scheduling flight
take-off and landing processes. In this setting, a swift response to changes in the
environment, such as an airplane that reports an expected delayed arrival, is vital. A multiagent system equipped with agents that continuously and jointly adapt their plans and, if
necessary, negotiate with airlines’ software agents can significantly help prevent delays.
The agents in a multi-agent system need to understand their world in order to choose their
actions. The ‘world knowledge’ required for such understanding should be stored in a
software agent in such a way that it can reason on the basis of its knowledge. This is the area
of knowledge technology, a field that is nowadays integrated with agent technology.
B1.4 THE MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAMME IN HUMAN-MACHINE
COMMUNICATION
This two-year Master’s degree programme focuses on cognitive science and its applications.
The Groningen programme places slightly more emphasis on cognitive modelling and on
language technology than similar Master’s degree programmes do. This Master’s degree
programme is offered by Artificial Intelligence in cooperation with Psychology and
Information Science (Faculty of Arts).
The programme centres on how knowledge about cognition is acquired through experimentation, how cognition can be modelled by cognitive architectures or computational models of
the neural correlates of cognition, and how this knowledge of cognition can be used to
improve cooperation between humans and computers, and humans and robots. The
programme also pays attention to computational models of language as a special domain of
cognitive science.
The specialization phase discusses a number of advanced technologies. For example we
investigate to what extent a user interface can be made adaptive by means of a ‘user model’,
an automatically constructed model of the individual user. In addition, user interfaces will be
designed that communicate using natural language. Creating such an interface is only
possible once a number of problems have been solved, including issues such as handwriting
recognition and attaching meaning to utterances made in natural language. An essential
characteristic of this degree programme is its active working method – it requires an active
attitude on the part of the student.
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
49
B1.4.1 What jobs are in store for you?
This Master’s degree programme is suitable both for students who would like to move on to
the business world and those who prefer a career in academic research. Below is an overview
of the most important jobs that graduates of the Master’s degree programme in HumanMachine Communication could fill.
User interface designer
In today’s society, humans are surrounded by computers and other machines. Many people
use computer systems at work – in hospitals, in the manufacturing industry, etc. One of the
main tasks of a user interface designer is to design and adapt systems to the cognitive
abilities and limitations of the user. Problems can arise when users cannot figure out exactly
how a system works. Designing a good user interface requires a precise understanding of the
task characteristics and a thorough understanding of human task performance.
Designer of intelligent tutor systems
Computers play an increasingly important role in education. Modelling principles derived
from research on human cognition are applied in the design of intelligent tutor systems. A
user model, a computational model of the user’s skill and knowledge, enables the tutor
system to adapt continuously to the pupil’s current knowledge and skills, so that the pupil
can be offered an individualized learning programme that increases educational efficiency.
In addition, an intelligent tutor system also provides appropriate feedback targeting the
pupil’s errors.
Language and speech technologist
Many IT applications make use of language – for example, web search engines, applications
that can read written text (such as an e-mail or text message) out loud, or systems that
automatically ‘talk’ to clients of large institutions such as banks by means of speech
recognition. Web search engines have already evolved to the point that they can specifically
search Dutch texts for names, addresses, etc., and answer question such as ‘On what island is
Mount Etna?’ A system that can read text out loud has to be able to convert letters into
sounds and provide sentences with intonation. Building such applications requires not only
technical knowledge and skills, but also knowledge of language and speech, and of how
auditory and visual information can be combined in order to create a system that also
performs well in less than ideal circumstances.
B1.5
LINK TO RESEARCH AT THE UNIVERSITY OF GRONINGEN
The degree programmes within the Groningen Department of Artificial Intelligence are
particularly – although not exclusively – suitable as preparation for a career in the world of
research. The teaching is closely connected to the research conducted at the University of
Groningen, which means that graduates of Artificial Intelligence are able to start careers as
researchers in one of the research groups that are active in the fields of Artificial Intelligence
and cognition. However, the close links that the Department maintains with various research
groups at the University are not only beneficial to students who would like to start a research
career – the excellent contacts also enable students of Artificial Intelligence to gain
experience in designing and implementing cognitive systems via various projects or
internships. In addition, various course units pay attention to very recent research in the
fields of Artificial Intelligence conducted at the University of Groningen.
A key characteristic of academic teaching is that the lecturers themselves also actively
conduct research. Artificial intelligence is a rapidly developing field, and only active
participation in these developments will ensure current and up-to-date teaching.
50
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
AI research is currently concentrated in a research institute called Alice, and focuses on the
following themes:
1. Cognitive modelling
2. Multi-agent systems
3. Autonomous & perceptive systems
4. Auditory cognition
The name ‘Alice’ is not only an acronym for ‘ArtificiaL Intelligence and Cognitive
Engineering’; it also refers to the logic in the work of the author Lewis Carroll.
The research institute has strong links and partnerships with various groups elsewhere,
including, for example, Carnegie Mellon University (USA), the University of Zurich (CH), the
University of Warsaw (PL), the University of Osnabrück (D), the University of Genoa (I),
Fraunhofer Institut (D), most Dutch research groups in this field of study, as well as a
number of research groups in the United States and Japan. In addition, partnerships are also
regularly formed with ‘the industry’, including companies such as Gasunie, IBM, Prime
Vision, Sound Intelligence and other national and international enterprises.
B1.6
FOR WHOM?
B1.7
LEARNING OUTCOMES OF THE DEGREE PROGRAMME
As the degree programme in Artificial Intelligence has already been in existence for 25 years,
we have gained a fairly accurate picture of the type of student it attracts: curious people who
like the clarity of the exact sciences but at the same time do not want to lose touch with
reality and natural phenomena by only studying 'dry' reading material. The computer plays a
central role, but that applies to virtually all academic fields these days. It is the image of
'robot studies' that attracts some prospective students while at the same time scaring off
others. And that is a pity because, as shown above, the degree programme is highly varied
and multifaceted and offers opportunities for all kinds of talents. Graduates often find
excellent jobs as researchers or consultants in a wide range of companies and institutions.
Graduates of the Bachelor’s degree programme demonstrate knowledge, understanding, and
the ability to evaluate, analyse and interpret relevant data in the field of:
1. The symbolic approach to Artificial Intelligence and have the ability to apply this.
2. The numerical, non-symbolic approach to Artificial Intelligence and have the
ability to apply this.
3. Computational models of cognitive processes and have the expertise in
constructing and applying this.
4. Autonomous systems and robotics and have the ability to apply this.
5. Linguistics and language- and speech technology and have the ability to apply this.
6. Knowledge and agent systems and have expertise in designing, implementing and
applying these.
Graduates of the Bachelor’s degree programme have knowledge and understanding of:
7. The most important philosophical theories developed in the areas of artificial
intelligence and cognition.
8. The relevant theories developed in the area of empirical sciences, psychology,
biology and physics and have experience applying and analysing results thereof.
Graduates of the Bachelor’s degree programme have relevant knowledge and the ability:
9. To apply methods and techniques from mathematics and logic used in Artificial
Intelligence.
10. To use algorithms, data structures and important programming languages used in
Artificial Intelligence.
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
51
Graduates of the Bachelor’s degree programme have the ability:
11. On an academic level, to analyse problems, critically review scientific results and
communicate about this both individually as well as in a group, in both oral and
written form, including in a broader societal context.
12. To critically reflect on their own working method and to recognize the need for
continued learning with a high degree of autonomy, including in the context of a
Master’s degree or a specialist profession.
B1.8 OVERVIEW OF RESEARCH AND ACADEMIC SKILLS OF THE
BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAMME IN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
The table below presents an overview on how research and academic skills are integrated in
the various course units of the Bachelor’s degree programme in Artificial Intelligence. The
following research and academic skills are distinguished :
- Formulating adequate research goals, questions and/or hypotheses;
- Searching for, assessing and reflecting on scientific literature;
- Setting up basic research experiments, analysing and reflecting on its outcomes and
drawing appropriate conclusions;
- Training critical thinking, reflection, analytic attitude and capacity;
- Reflecting on research appropriateness and validity of methods and methodology;
- Communicating research progress and outcomes (both orally and in writing);
- Collaborating in a (multi-disciplinary) team;
- Degree programme specific research or academic skills.
x
Cognitive Science Practical
3
x
Language Technology
Practical
Bachelor’s Project
X = contributes strongly to
x = contributes to
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
3
3
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
8. Degree programme specific skills
2
2
x
x
7. Cooperating in a (multidisciplinary) team
x
x
6. Communicating research
progress and outcomes
2
5. reflecting on research methods
and methodology
x
x
4. training critical thinking,
reflection, analytic attitude and
capacity
1
1
1
3. setting up basic research
experiments
1. formulating research goals,
questions and/or hypotheses
Cognitive Psychology
Basic Scientific Skills
General Linguistics
Language and Speech
Technology
Philosophy of Cognitive
Science
Research Methods
2. searching for, assessing and
reflecting on scientific literature
Study year
Table: Overview of the research and academic skills in the Bachelor’s degree programme.
x
x
x
x
More details on these research or academic skills and the way they are assessed, can be
found in the course unit descriptions in Ocasys:
 www.rug.nl/ocasys/fwn/
52
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
B2
THE DEGREE PROGRAMME IN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
The Bachelor's degree programme in Artificial Intelligence takes three years: a propaedeutic
phase (the first year) and two senior years. Students who have passed all course units from
the first year are awarded a propaedeutic certificate. The Bachelor's study programme is set
out in Chapter B2.
Talented and ambitious students are offered the opportunity to participate in the Honours
College alongside their Bachelor's degree programme, in which they can follow 45 ECTS
worth of extra-curricular deepening and broadening course units. More information about
the Honours College can be found in Chapter 1.3 of the general section of the study guide.
B2.1 STRUCTURE OF THE BACHELOR'S DEGREE PROGRAMME IN
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
This chapter will discuss the structure of the Bachelor's degree programme, including the
requirements for following the three years of the programme. Any differences in regulations
for different groups of students are indicated.
Note! Students can always switch to the study programme as indicated in the Teaching and
Examinations Regulations (abbreviated in Dutch: OER) of a later year. This means that the
new study programme as well as all rules from that later OER will apply to them. Please
contact the academic advisor if you are interested in this.
The Bachelor's degree programme in AI takes three years. Each year comprises 60 ECTS
credit points, which means that you must earn a total of 180 ECTS credit points.
Students must earn 150 ECTS in compulsory course units (mainly in years 1 and 2). In
addition, they must follow 15 ECTS in electives selected by AI and 15 ECTS in freely
selectable electives.
B2.1.1 Propaedeutic phase
The first year of the degree programme aims to provide an overview of the subject field of
Artificial Intelligence, impart basic knowledge of the disciplines that play an important role
in the field and introduce students to several applications of Artificial Intelligence, as well as
providing them with a solid foundation in the fields of programming and mathematics.
Binding Study Advice system
Students must have earned at least 45 ECTS credit points by the end of their first year and
have gained their propaedeutic certificate by the end of their second year. This is called the
Binding Study Advice (BSA). The BSA system is discussed in more detail in Chapter 2.6 of
the general section of the study guide.
Admission to the second and third year
Students who have earned more than 45 ECTS from the propaedeutic phase (and have thus
been issued a positive study advice) will be provisionally admitted to the second year. They
will be permitted to follow second-year course units on condition that they satisfy the
specific entry requirements for the relevant course units (see section 6.2).
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
53
Third-year course units may only be followed by students who have gained their
propaedeutic certificate. This also applies to admission to external Minors. The Bachelor's
project is officially a third-year course unit. This means that students may not start their
Bachelor's project until they have gained their propaedeutic certificate and 135 ECTS. Also,
the course unit Research Methods is a requirement to start the Bachelor’s project.
B2.1.2 Second and third year
The second and third years build on the basic knowledge acquired in the propaedeutic phase,
offering advanced course units in the fields of Artificial Intelligence and Cognitive Science.
The second and third years will include practicals in the most important application fields of
Artificial Intelligence: Autonomous Systems, Cognitive Science, Knowledge Technology, and
Language Technology. Students are urgently advised to prioritise compulsory course units
over electives in their second year.
Compulsory and elective course units
Most of the second year and about half of the third year consists of compulsory course units.
Together with the propaedeutic phase, these course units make up a total student workload
of 150 ECTS.
Students have to choose 15 ECTS of the 30 ETCS reserved for electives from the list of AI
approved electives (see section 6.2). The other 15 ECTS comprise course units that can be
completely freely chosen. You may choose to follow additional practicals or electives from
the list, or come up with a proposal yourself. You can even choose course units from other
faculties or degree programmes. If you choose to compile your own study programme, this
must be submitted to the Board of Examiners for approval in advance.
University Minors
The University offers a range of broadening Minors, which are 30 ECTS programmes in a
variety of subject fields. However, students can choose only 15 ECTS of electives not selected
by AI. Please consult the Board of Examiners if you would like to follow a broadening Minor.
Note that you must be able to motivate why this Minor would benefit your study programme.
The Board of Examiners may then grant you permission to include this Minor in your study
programme.
Bachelor’s project
The third year is concluded with a Bachelor's project, in which you will work on a concrete
research assignment for the period of one semester. This is not a full-time project, as during
this semester you will also follow a number of other course units. The Bachelor's project can
also be carried out in the first semester (of your fourth study year) in the event that you have
incurred a study delay.
The Bachelor's project comprises a small-scale research project supervised by an AI staff
member. You can choose from a number of research projects, which will be announced in an
information session at the start of the semester. There will be a series of compulsory lectures
at the start of each semester.
The Bachelor's project is subject to the Graduation Regulations. The project must be
completed within one semester. If you have not completed it by the end of the semester, you
will have to choose a new project.
B2.1.3 Studying abroad
The degree programme in Artificial Intelligence encourages students to gain academic and
social experience abroad within the framework of their studies. However, the best time to go
abroad can be different for different students. Please contact the academic advisor and the
international office of the FMNS at least 6 months before you plan your stay abroad.
54
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Although students in principle only have 15 ECTS available to choose ‘freely’, the Board of
Examiners may approve a longer stay abroad. It may be possible to complete your 15 ECTS
in electives abroad as well, so you can still spend a whole semester following 30 ECTS in
course units abroad. The Board of Examiners has to approve your proposal in
advance.
You can also choose to postpone your stay abroad until the Master's phase so you can do an
interesting Final Research Project in a foreign country. More information about studying
abroad can be found in Chapter 3.3 of the general section of the study guide.
B2.2 STUDY PROGRAMME 2016-2019
You must successfully complete the entire study programme in order to be awarded a
Bachelor's degree in Artificial Intelligence. All students must complete the study programme as set out in the Teaching and Examination Regulations
(abbreviated in Dutch: OER) for the year in which they started their degree. The
study programme for students who start their degree in the academic year 2016-2017 can be
found below. A pdf of this studyguide as well as earlier versions can be found:

http://student.portal.rug.nl/infonet/studenten/fwn/studiegidsen/
Students who started their studies before 2016/2017, should consult the OER of the
academic year in which they first registered. Students may switch to the study programme of
a later year (please contact the academic advisor if you would like to do this).
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
55
The complete study programme for Bachelor's students who start their degree in 2016-2017
is listed below:
Study programme Bachelor’s degree in Artificial Intelligence
2016-2019
All course units have a student workload of 5 ECTS, unless indicated otherwise.
Year 1 (Propaedeutic phase): 60 ECTS
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
KIB.ORKI03
INBIMP-09
Imperative Programming
Autonomous Systems
KIB.AS03
Cognitive Psychology
KIB.CP06
Introduction to Logic (AI & Philosophy)
WPAI14001
losophy) for Artificial Intelligence
Calculus
WPMA14003
Human Factors
PSB3E-CP04
Algorithms and Data Structures in C
INBADC-09
Basic Scientific Skills
KIB.WBV06
Artificial Intelligence I
KIB.KI103
General Linguistics
KIB.ATW03
Linear Algebra & Multivariable Calculus for AI&CS
WPMA14005
Years 2 & 3: 120 ECTS
Compulsory course units (75 ECTS)
Advanced Logic
KIB.VL03
Architectures of Intelligence
KIB.AVI03
Artificial Intelligence II
KIB.KI203
Biopsychology
PSBE1-04
Knowledge and Agent Technology
KIB.KT03
Language and Speech Technology
KIB.TST03
Neural Networks
KIB.NNKI03
Neurophysics
KIB.NF07
Object-Oriented Programming
INBOGP-08
Philosophy of Cognitive Science
FI053CW
Research Methods
KIB.OZM10
Signals and Systems
KIB.SENS12
Statistics (AI and CS)
WISTAKI-07
KIB.PROJ03
Bachelor’s Project (10 EC)
Choice of 15 ECTS worth of the following AI practicals:
Autonomous Systems Practical
KIB.PAS05 WBAI14001
Autonomous Systems Practical Extension
WBAI14001
Cognitive Science Practical
KIB.PRCS08
Knowledge Technology Practical
KIB.PKT10
Language Technology Practical
KIB.PTT07
Electives from the list selected by AI: 15 ECTS (see next page)*
Other electives: 15 ECTS
Or optional Minor (to be approved by the Board of Examiners)
* It is also possible to choose more AI practicals.
56
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
The following electives may be chosen:
Electives
Recommended course units:
Logical Programming** LIX003B05
Learning: Theory and
PSB3E-M14
Practice
Other course units:
Cognition and
PSB3E-CP02
Attention
Cognitive Neuroscience
PSB3E-CP06
Computer Graphics
INBCG-08
Functional
Programming
INBFP-08
Human Error
PSMIN05
IT Law for non-law
students (10 ECTS) **
RGARI70110
Introduction Intelligent
Systems
INBINTS-08
Introduction to
Information Systems
INBIIS-08
Information Security
INBSEC-08
Computational Grammar
LIX025B05
Parallel Computing
INBPAR-08
Philosophy of Natural
Sciences: Physics and
Metaphysics
Philosophy of Mind 1:
Body, Brain, Mind**
Philosophy of Science
Philosophy of Science,
Technology & Society
Problem Analysis and
Software Design
Programming in C/C++
(part 1/2/3) *
Requirements Engineering
and Software Start-ups
Zelf-organisatie van
Ecologische en Sociale
Systemen **
FI153LH
FI142LBG
FI090WET
FI073HH
WBCS16000
RC-C__1/ RCC__2/ RCC__3
INBSRE-08
WLB07103
All course units represent 5 ECTS unless indicated otherwise.
* All parts together are worth a maximum of 8 ECTS, 2 courses count for 5 ECTS, part 1 may be
followed separately for a maximum of 2 ECTS
** Taught in Dutch.
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
57
B2.2.1 Entry requirements
Most course units build on other course units that were followed earlier in the programme.
The practicals, for example, dovetail with the introductory course units. However, the
practicals are not the only components that build on knowledge acquired in previous course
units. As practice has shown that it is very difficult to pass a course unit if you do not have
the required background, some Bachelor's course units may only be followed if you satisfy
certain entry requirements. The table indicates the entry requirement for specific course
units.
Course unit name
Advanced Logic
Artificial Intelligence 2
Autonomous Systems Practical
Bachelor’s Project
Cognitive Science Practical
Knowledge Technology Practical
Language and Speech Technology
Language Technology Practical
Computational Grammar
Neural Networks
Neurophysics
Research Methods
Entry requirements
- Introduction to Logic (for AI & Philosophy)
- Artificial Intelligence 1
- Autonomous Systems
- At least 135 ECTS from the Bachelor’s phase
- Statistics (for AI and CS)
- Research Methods
- Cognitive Psychology
- Statistics (for AI and CS)
- Knowledge and Agent Technology
- General Linguistics
- Language and Speech Technology
- Logical Programming
- Linear Algebra and Multivariable Calculus for AI &
CS
- Calculus (for AI)
- Calculus (for AI)
- Linear Algebra and Multivariable Calculus for AI &
CS
- Statistics (for AI and CS)
58
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
B2.3 AFTER THE BACHELOR'S PHASE
Once you have finished your Bachelor’s degree you can continue on to a Master’s degree
programme in the Netherlands or abroad. Please note: In former times students with a
Bachelor's degree in AI were unconditionally admitted to all AI Master's degree programmes
in the Netherlands. In the academic year 2014-2015 the Dutch Ministry of Education,
Culture and Science disestablished the obligation to offer a continuative Master’s degree
programme (in Dutch: doorstroommaster) for Bachelor’s degree programmes. Hence, there
is a big chance that admission to specific Master’s degree programmes will incorporate a
selection procedure in the coming years. However, on a national level there will be always
one Master’s degree programme available without a selection procedure. Of course, we will
keep you informed about the developments. The University of Groningen offers two AI
Master's degree programmes:
- Artificial Intelligence (for more information read section B1.3)
- Human-Machine Communication (for more information read section B1.4)
Students with a Bachelor's degree in AI from the University of Groningen may also be
interested in the Research Master's degree programme in Behavioural and Cognitive
Neurosciences (BCN). A selection procedure applies to this programme, but experience
has shown that students with a Bachelor's degree in AI from the University of Groningen
stand a good chance of being admitted.
If you are interested in science communication or becoming a teacher the Master's degree
programme in Education and Communication of the University of Groningen might be
interesting for you. It comprises two variants: Education and Communication. This Master's
degree programme is taught in Dutch.
If you have more questions, please contact the academic advisors of the Master's degree
programmes in good time.
B2.3.1 Registering for the Master's degree in AI or HMC at the University
of Groningen
Registration via Studielink
Students with a Bachelor's degree in Artificial Intelligence can register via Studielink for the
Master's degrees in Artificial Intelligence or Human Machine Communication. A selection
procedure may apply. You can start the programme four times a year, at the start of
each period. Depending on your preferred starting date you must be enrolled before 1
September, 1 November, 1 February or 1 April.
Choosing the right Master's degree programme
If you are not sure which of the two Master's degree programmes is right for you, you can ask
the academic advisor for brochures or make an appointment. She can also give you more
information about Master's degrees and options outside AI, outside Groningen or even
outside the Netherlands.
Note! In 2012-2013 the 'Bachelor-before-Master rule' (in Dutch: harde knip) was
introduced, which means that provisional admission to Master's degree programmes is no
longer granted. You must complete all Bachelor's course units before you can start your
Master's degree programme.
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
59
B3
COURSE UNITS IN 2016-2017
This chapter describes the course units offered in the academic year 2016-2017. Please note
that this is not the same list as the study programme for students who start their degree in
2016, which can be found in Chapter B2. The study programmes for students who started
their degree in an earlier year can be found in the Teaching and Examination Regulations for
the relevant year.
B3.1 CHANGES IN 2016-2017
This chapter lists all changes to the course units compared to last year, including course
units that are now taught in different periods, are no longer offered, have been renamed or
have been merged into other course units.
- Year 1 (Propaedeutic phase)
There are no changes in the first year of the Bachelor’s programme in AI
- Year 2
 Advanced Logic is assigned to year 2
- Year 3
 Speech Technology Practical is no longer available
 Biopsychology is assigned to year 3
-
Electives
Electives are often course units shared with other BSc programmes. The available
range of electives may differ each year. The most important changes are as follows:
 Software Analysis and Design changed its name to Problem Analysis and
Software Design;
 Philosophy of Science is a new elective
 Thinking and Decision Making is no longer available
 An overview of electives can be found in Chapter B2. For an up-to-date overview
please check Ocasys.
B3.2 COURSE UNITS IN 2016-2017
This is an overview of course units offered in each period of the academic year 2016-2017.
Please note that this is not a study programme! Your study programme, which you will
follow for your entire Bachelor's degree programme, can be found in the Teaching and
Examination Regulations (abbreviated in Dutch: OER) for the academic year in which you
started your degree. If you first registered in 2016-2017, your study programme is also listed
in Chapter B2.2. Students who started their degree before the academic year 2016-2017
should check their own OER for their study programme.
Subsequently, check the overview below to see in which periods your course units are
offered. For your convenience, we underlined all compulsory courses. The course unit
descriptions can be found in Chapter B6.
60
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Year 1:
1a
Autonomous
Systems
1b
Cognitive
Psychology
2a
Human Factors
2b
Artificial Intelligence
1
Multivariable
Calculus and Linear
Algebra
Imperative
Programming
Calculus for AI
Algorithms and
Datastructures in C
Introduction to
Artificial
Intelligence
Introduction to
Logic AI&Philo
Basic Scientific Skills General Linguistics
Year 2:
1a
Knowledge and
Agent Technology
Language and
Speech Technology
Statistics (AI and
CS)
1b
Architectures of
Intelligence
Philosophy
Cognitive Science
Signals and Systems
2a
Research Methods
2b
Object Oriented
Programming
Neural Networks AI
Advanced Logic
Autonomous
Systems Practical or
ELECTIVE
Autonomous
Systems Practical
Extension* or
ELECTIVE
* The extension of Autonomous Systems Practical can only be followed directly after part 1.
Year 3: Compulsory Courses
1a
1b
Neurophysics
Artificial
Intelligence 2
2a
BSc Project*
2b
BSc Project*
Biopsychology
*In case of study delay the BSc project can also be followed in period 1a/b.
Year 3: Practicals
1a
1b
Knowledge
Technology Practical
2a
Cognitive Science
Practical
Autonomous
Systems Practical
2b
Language
Technology Practical
Autonomous
Systems Practical
Extension*
* The extension of Autonomous Systems Practical can only be followed directly after part 1.
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Year 3: Electives
1a
Functional
Programming
Introduction
Intelligent
Systems
1b
Logical
Programming
2a
Computational
Grammar
2b
Cognitive
Neuroscience
Learning: Theory
and Practice
Computer Graphics
Parallel Computing
Requirements
Engineering and
Software Start-ups
Introduction to
Information
systems
Philosophy of Science,
Technology & Society
Zelf-organisatie van
Ecologische en
Sociale Systemen**
Information
Security
Human Error
Cognition and
Attention
Programming in
C/C++ (part I)*
Programming in
C/C++ (part II)*
Programming in
C/C++ (part III)*
61
Problem Analysis
and Software
Design
Philosophy of Mind
1: Body, Brain,
Mind**
Philosophy of
Natural Sciences:
Physics and
Metaphysics
Philosophy of
Science
IT Law for non-law
students (10
ECTS)**
* Part I, II and III together, max. 8 ECTS; part I and II or I and III together max. 5 ECTS, part I max. 2 ECTS
** Taught in Dutch.
62
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
B4
PRACTICAL TEACHING-RELATED MATTERS
This chapter is going to discuss a number of aspects with regard to the organization of
teaching and examinations, such as lecture timetables, the structure of the academic year,
how to register for course units and examinations, and how to request your degree
certificate. This section contains more information than the general section of the study
guide, since many AI course units are offered by other faculties.
B4.1 TIMETABLES AND THE STRUCTURE OF THE ACADEMIC YEAR
B4.1.1 Lecture and examination timetables
The lecture timetables are published on the Universities timetable page:
 rooster.rug.nl
B4.1.2 Changes
As changes may be made to a course unit’s timetable in the course of the academic year, you
are advised to check the timetables regularly.
Important short term changes to the lecture and examination timetables will be e-mailed to
everyone in the [ALL] mailing list. You should therefore regularly check your student e-mail
account. Changes also often have been communicated via Nestor (nestor.rug.nl).
B4.2 ACADEMIC YEAR 2016-2017
An academic year at the University of Groningen consists of two semesters. The start and
end dates of the semesters are:
- Semester 1: 5 September 2016 – 3 February 2017
- Semester 2: 4 February 2017 – 23 June 2017 (resit weeks until 14 July 2017)
Each semester comprises 20 lecture weeks and is divided up into two periods, each lasting 10
weeks. The start and end dates of the periods are the same for all University of Groningen
degree programmes. In the Artificial Intelligence department lectures are held during the
first 7 weeks, whereas the last 3 weeks are reserved for exams, resits and finishing
assignments. Other schedules apply to other degree programmes:
- Artificial Intelligence: 7 lecture weeks, 1 resit week, 2 exam weeks
- Computing Science: 8 lecture weeks, 2 exam weeks. Resits are held in 3rd of 4th
lecture week of the next period, in the evenings.
- Psychology: 8 lecture weeks (period 1 a: 1 introduction week and 7 lecture
weeks), 2 exam weeks. Resits are held in the 2nd or 3rd lecture week of the next
period.
- Arts: 7 lecture weeks, 1 resit week, 2 exam weeks
- Philosophy: 9 lecture weeks, 1 exam week. Resits are held in the 4th or 5th lecture
week of the next period.
Please also consult the next chapter for important information about registration periods for
course units and exams.
The academic year for Artificial Intelligence is structured as follows:
Period Lecture period
Exam period
Resits
1a
5 September – 21 October 31 October – 11 November 16 January – 20 January
1b
14 November – 13 January 23 January – 3 February
27 March – 31 March
2a
6 February – 24 March
3 April – 14 April
12 June – 16 June
2b
17 April – 9 June
19 June – 23 June
10 July – 14 July
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
63
Closing date for course unit registration: 4 weeks before the start of the course unit
(course units taking place in the first period of the first year are open until the end of the first
week).
Closing date for examination and resit registration: you will automatically be
registered for the examination, please deregister if necessary 1 week before the date of the
examination/resit. It remains your own responsibility to (un-)register for course units,
examinations and resits.
Computing Science:
Period Lecture period
5 September – 28 October
1a
14 November – 20 January
1b
6 February – 31 March
2a
17 April – 16 June
2b
Exam period
Resits (evenings)
31 October – 11 November
23 January – 3 February
3 April – 14 April
19 June – 23 June
28 November –16 December
20 February – 10 March
1 May – 19 May
10 July – 14 July
Closing date for Computing Science course unit registration: 4 weeks before the
start of the course unit (course units taking place in the first period of the first year are open
until the end of the first week).
Closing date for Computing Science exam and resit registration: you will
automatically be registered for the examination, please deregister if necessary 1 week before
the date of the examination/resit. It remains your own responsibility to (un-)register for
course units, examinations and resits.
Psychology:
Period Lecture period
12 September – 28 October
1a
14 November – 20 January
1b
6 February – 31 March
2a
17 April – 9 June
2b
Exam period
Resits
31 October – 11 November
23 January – 3 February
3 April – 14 April
12 June – 23 June
5 December – 9 December
27 February – 3 March
8 May – 12 May
3 July – 14 July
Closing date for Psychology course unit registration: You can register for course
units by sending an email to [email protected] at least 1 week before the start of the
course unit.
Closing date for Psychology examination registration: When having enrolled for a
course unit, you will be automatically registered for the examination. Please note: you cannot
participate in the examination when you have not enrolled for the course unit.
Arts:
Period
1a
1b
2a
2b
Lecture period
Exam period
Resits
5 September – 21 October
14 November – 13 January
6 February – 24 March
17 April – 9 June
24 October – 11 November
23 January – 3 February
3 April – 14 April
12 June – 23 June
16 January – 20 January
27 March – 31 March
26 June – 30 June
3 July – 7 July
At the moment the study guide was edited, registration for course units of the 1st
semester has been closed already. It was not known when the registration for
course units of the 2nd semester will open. You do not need to enrol for
examinations separately.
For more information check:
 www.rug.nl/let/education/meer-onderwijs/praktische-informatie/
64
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Philosophy:
To register for course units and/or examinations of Philosophy please visit
ProgRESS WWW or contact the academic advisor Harrie ten Have:
 [email protected]
For more information about the schedules please see:
 www.rug.nl/filosofie/education/
Holidays and other non-teaching periods
There will be no lectures from Monday 25 December – Friday 6 January or on Friday 14
April (Good Friday), Monday 17 April (Easter Monday), Thursday 27 April (King's Day),
Friday 5 May (Liberation Day), Thursday 25 May (Ascension Thursday), Monday 5 June
(Pentecost).
B4.3 REGISTERING FOR COURSE UNITS AND EXAMS
Registration for AI course units takes place via ProgRESS WWW:
 progresswww.nl/rug
Register at least 4 weeks before the start of the course unit. Registration for
course units closes 4 weeks before the start of the course unit (with the
exception of course units of the 1st year of period 1a), afterwards it is not
possible anymore to register. This is done so that appropriate rooms can be booked and
sufficient student assistants hired.
Registration for a course unit obliges the registered person to appear for the first session of
the course unit. ProgRESS WWW does not allow you to register for more than four courses
in a period (this only holds for courses, which are offered in a period of 8-10 weeks). In case
you want to register for more courses in a period please contact your academic advisor.
Please deregister if you decide not to follow a course unit that you have signed up for,
otherwise the lecturer will prepare for more students than necessary.
Students who have registered for a course unit are automatically provided with access to the
course information on Nestor. Lecturers can post important information about their course
units on Nestor, including changes to the timetable, homework, the assessment procedure,
lecture slides, etc. In addition, they can also send e-mails to all students registered for their
course units via Nestor. In other words, if you are not registered, you may miss out on
important information from the lecturer about your course units and/or exams.
AI students must also register for course units and exams offered by other degree
programmes. Registration periods vary per degree programme – for all FMNS degree
programmes you will have to register for a course unit or exam at least 4 weeks in advance,
whereas for others the deadline may be one week in advance. It is better to be safe than
sorry, so make sure you always register well in advance.
If you have any questions or problems related to registering in other degree
programmes, please contact that degree programme's education office.
B4.3.1 Registering for exams of the FMNS
Registration for written examinations is coupled to the registration for course units:
In case you register for a course unit you will automatically be registered for the
examinations after the first lecture week.
- In case you fail the examination you will automatically be registered for the re examination approximately 2 weeks before the re-examination.
- If you do not attend the examination of that year you will not be automatically
enrolled for the re-examination.
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65
It is possible to register separately for an examination or re-examination, i.e. you
can register for a (re-)examination without registering for the course.
In case you attend a (re-)examination you need to be present at the start of the
(re-)examination.
Despite the automatic examinations registration the student remains responsible
for being properly registered for (re-)examinations.
Please sign out for a (re-)examination in case you decide not to attend. There is an
opportunity to sign out until at least 1 week before the date of the
(re)examination.
The Board of Examiners may grant permission to take an examination in special cases of
force majeure:
 [email protected]
Registration procedures vary per degree programme:
- The examination registration procedure for other FMNS degree programmes
(Computing Science, Biology, Mathematics) is the same as for AI.
- Registration for Arts examinations closes one week before the exam period of Arts. It
is possible to do the registration later, for a fee of €15 per exam.
- Registration for Psychology examinations is automatically after you have enrolled
for the course unit. Please note: you cannot participate in the examination when you
have not enrolled for the course unit.
Re-examinations
Each Artificial Intelligence course unit includes one examination and one re-examination
in each academic year. The examination is held 1 week after the period in which the course
unit was taught, whereas the re-examination is held directly after the next lecture period.
The re-examination for course units taught in the last period 2b are held in July.
Registration for AI re-examinations closes one week before the re-examinations take place.
The re-examination periods may vary per degree programme (see above).
Practicals are only offered once per academic year and there are no re-examinations.
Homework assignments, computer assignments, etc. are also regarded as practicals.
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B4.4 PROCEDURES FOR REQUESTING DEGREE CERTIFICATES
B4.4.1 Procedure for requesting a propaedeutic certificate
All students who have passed all compulsory course units from the first year are awarded a
propaedeutic certificate. Once you have satisfied all the requirements, the Education Support
Desk will automatically start the certificate procedure for you. A propaedeutic certificate
ceremony is held once a year, usually in October. Any additional ceremonies will be
announced at least one month in advance.
The propaedeutic certificate should be seen as a sort of 'incentive prize' for a successful
further study career. The propaedeutic phase is an integral part of the Bachelor's degree
programme and successfully completing the entire first year can be regarded as the first step
towards the final goal: gaining your Bachelor's degree. Passing the propaedeutic phase will
have no formal effect on your registration – you were already a Bachelor's student of AI and
this is what you will continue to be.
B4.4.2 Procedure for requesting a Bachelor's degree certificate
Approval of study programme
Once you have completed almost all the required course units in the Bachelor's degree
programme, you should apply for graduation. It is advisable to submit your study program
approximately 6 months, but no later than 2 months before you wish to graduate.
To apply for your BSc graduation log into ProgRESS WWW and go to Mathematics and
Natural Sciences - Undergraduate School (BSc) - BSc Artificial Intelligence - Registration
BSc exam AI -Degree Application Artificial Intelligence. Enrol for the degree application of
your BSc in the same way as if you would enrol for a course or examination. Then you can
continue to complete all the remaining course units and finish your thesis.
From the moment you enrolvia ProgRESS WWW the system will guide you through the
steps. For each next step that you must take, you will see new instructions or you will receive
an email with further notifications/instructions.
In brief:
1. First of all you need to compile and submit your Bachelor’s study programme to the
Board of Examiners. To compile your study programme, drag all the courses you wish
to include to your list and submit the list to the system. The list may include courses
which you haven’t passed or finished yet.
2. Now you have to wait until the Board of Examiners has approved your study
programme. This process might take a couple of weeks so apply in due time.
3. After approval of your study programme and after all grades are registered, the
judicium will be determined.
4. You will then receive an invitation for and further instructions concerning the
graduation ceremony.
If you have any questions about the content of your study programme (which courses should
go into the programme), please make an appointment with the academic advisor Rachel van
der Kaaij at this url:
 rachelvdkaaij.youcanbook.me
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Cum Laude/Summa Cum Laude
The predicate ‘cum laude’ or ‘summa cum laude’ may be awarded to your Bachelor's degree.
Please consult the rules and regulations of the FMNS for more information about this:
http://student.portal.rug.nl/infonet/studenten/fwn/rules-and-regulations/
Your registration with the CSA will change once you have gained your Bachelor's degree
As soon as the Education Support Centre submits the request for your Bachelor's degree
certificate to the Central Student Administration (CSA), the CSA will register that you have
completed your Bachelor's degree programme. If you have already registered for a Master's
degree programme within our University, your AI Bachelor's registration will be
discontinued as of that moment. However, if you have not registered as a University of
Groningen Master's student, you will have to deregister as a Bachelor's student yourself.
Bachelor's degree certificate ceremony
Once your request has been processed and you have satisfied the requirements for gaining a
Bachelor's degree, you will be invited to the Bachelor's degree certificate ceremony. Once you
have signed your degree certificate you are officially a Bachelor of Science.
The dates on which you can receive your degree certificate are as follows:
Degree certificate ceremonies 2016-2017
12 September 2016
14 October 2016
12 December 2016
6 March 2017
12 June 2017
11 September 2017
Bachelor's/Master’s
Propaedeutic certificate
Bachelor's/Master’s
Bachelor's/Master’s
Bachelor's/Master’s
Bachelor's/Master’s
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B5
HELP, ADVICE AND SUPPORT
Below is an overview of which information can be found where.
B5.1 INFORMATION PROVISION
The Faculty and the degree programme communicate with students in a variety of ways and
provide information via several websites. Here are the most important links to information
on the internet:
-
the studentportal contains general information for all students and specific
information for AI students
 http://www.myuniversity.rug.nl/infonet/studenten/
ProgRESS WWW, where you can register for course units and exams and see an
overview of your study results:
 progresswww.nl/rug
Nestor, the electronic learning environment for course units:
 nestor.rug.nl/
Ocasys, the online course catalogue:
 www.rug.nl/ocasys/
Lecture and examination timetables:
 rooster.rug.nl
Previous study guides:
 http://student.portal.rug.nl/infonet/studenten/fwn/studiegidsen/
Previous OERen:
 http://student.portal.rug.nl/infonet/studenten/fwn/rules-and-regulations/oeren/
University website
 www.rug.nl
STUDENT PORTAL
The Student Portal is the internal information portal of the University of Groningen for
students. The Education Support Centre (ESC) and your degree programme offer their
information via this portal. It also contains information about all services and policies of the
university and the faculty, such as ICT services and Teaching and Examination Regulations.
Moreover, the electronic learning environment Nestor is implemented in the Student Portal.
You can log in to the student portal with your personal account. The student portal is divided
in several tabs:
Today tab
On the upper left side, you will find Need to Know messages. These are generally important
messages from your degree programme, the faculty or the university. It is essential that you
regularly read these messages, in order to stay updated about important issues regarding
your studies. A message is colored in red if you have not read the contents before, and turns
into grey after reading it.
In the middle, you will find Nice to Know messages. These messages are less essential to
read: examples are announcements for symposia and summer courses, or calls for
participation in study support workshops or interviews. Missing these messages may not
directly harm you in your daily studies, but reading them every once in a while will keep you
informed about interesting activities apart from your degree programme.
On the right you see an overview of all the courses that you enrolled for. If a course unit is
missing, the lecturer probably has not made the course page available yet.
The other elements of this tab (student portal intro, time schedules,…) are pretty much selfexplainable
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69
Study Info tab
This tab is divided into 4 different subcategories: Quick links, Bachelor’s degree
programmes, Master’s degree programmes, Rules and Regulations: Under quick links you
can find information about general aspects of the FMNS or facilities that are shared by
several programmes, such as the Education Support Desk or the Exchange Office. Under
Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes you can find specific information about your
programme. The subcategory Rules and Regulations combines all kinds of official
documents such as the Teaching and Examination Regulations.
Career tab
This tab is dedicated to all kinds of information that may help you to develop a clearer
picture of how your career path should look like. You can find a calendar with upcoming
events as well job postings. So it is definitely worthwhile to have a look at this tab every now
and then!
ONLINE LEARNING AND SUPPORT ENVIRONMENT: NESTOR
Nestor is the electronic learning environment of the University of Groningen. Lecturers use
Nestor to provide information about course units, to exchange documents, and to give
electronic examinations. Students use Nestor to find course information, read
announcements, to cooperate with fellow students and to hand in assignments.
After logging in to Nestor, you arrive at the start page of the Student Portal, which includes
relevant Nestor widgets on the right side of your screen. The start page will be the Today tab
of the Student Portal.
Here, you see the information box “Courses”, which lists all course units you have enrolled in
via ProgRESS. If a course unit is missing, the lecturer has not made it available yet.
Clicking on a course link directs you to the course information page, which contains the
latest updates on the course.
Furthermore, on the start page of the Student Portal you will also find the Nestor
information box ‘Organizations’. Some associations or committees offer their information via
this Nestor tool. Note that you will probably not be enrolled in many of these Nestor
organizations at the start of your programme.
IGRONINGEN APP
iGroningen is the University of Groningen’s app for Android and iOS. It gives you access to
Nestor, to your grades, to course schedules, as well as to maps, news, and much more.
AI mailing list
In addition to the University student account that all students have, each AI student is also
provided with their own Unix account for the AI servers. Everyone who is entitled to use this
server is included in the mailing list:
 [email protected]
Important information about timetables, examinations, colloquia, etc. is announced via this
mailing list. Students are expected to read these e-mails!
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B5.2 COMMITTEES WITHIN THE DEGREE PROGRAMME
As described in the general section of the study guide, the degree programme has several
committees and bodies that students can turn to. This chapter discusses whom you can
contact in which situations.
B5.2.1 Education Support Centre
Academic Advisor
The academic advisor is your first point of contact for study-related problems, study delay,
questions about your study programme, advice about which Master's degree you should
choose and which options are available within the degree programme, questions about the
graduation process, regulations and other teaching-related matters, etc. The academic
advisor for the Bachelor’s programme AI is Rachel van der Kaaij:
 [email protected]
You can make an appointment with the academic advisor at this url:
 rachelvdkaaij.youcanbook.me
For short questions you can also visit the open office hours: Tuesdays and Thursdays 10.30 –
12.00, Bernoulliborg, room 0079. An overview of the answers to the questions the academic
advisor is most frequently asked can be found in Chapter B5.3.
Programme Manager
If you want to report general (i.e. not individual) timetabling issues or bottlenecks in the
teaching programmes, please contact the degree programme manager Ika Neven:
 [email protected]
Please note: Ika Neven will be on pregnancy leave from September 2016 until beginning of
January 2017.
Education Support Desk
You can consult the Education Support Desk for all other matters such as requesting certified
lists of marks, questions about course unit and exam registration, reporting missing study
results, general questions about lectures or the degree programme, and setting a date for
your Bachelor's/Master's colloquium.
You can reach the Education Support Desk via:
 [email protected]
 Telephone 050 363 44 22
The desk is located at the Bernoulliborg. See the general section of the study guide for more
information.
B5.2.2 Board of Examiners
For a more detailed description of the duties of the Board of Examiners, consult section
A2.10. You can contact the Board of Examiners in the following situations. Please note,
however, that this only applies to course units offered by AI. For questions about course
units offered by different degree programmes you should contact the Board of Examiners of
that degree programme.
- To request exemption from course units;
- To apply for admission to course units that you would not normally be admitted to;
- To discuss whether force majeure applies in situations related to registration or
examinations;
- To lodge complaints about examinations (including marking).
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71
Requests to the Board of Examiners can be submitted via the official secretary:
 [email protected]
The Board of Examiners of Artificial Intelligence has the following members:
- Dr M.K. van Vugt (Chair)
- Prof. N.A. Taatgen (secretary)
- Prof. Dr. L.C. Verbrugge
- Dr. M. Wiering
- Prof. Dr. D.H. van Rijn
B5.2.3 Programme Committees and evaluations
Lecturers will hand out evaluation forms at the end of each course unit, on which you can
give your opinion about the course unit. These forms are forwarded to the Programme
Committee (in Dutch: Opleidingscommissie, OC), which uses them to monitor the teaching
quality. Please fill in these evaluation forms! The more students give their opinions,
the more seriously possible criticism can be taken. Please note: Do not only focus on the
negative aspects. If you really liked a course, it is also worth mentioning! If the evaluation
form is not handed out during the exam or in the last lecture, you can always check with the
lecturer or contact the Education Support Desk.
In addition, the OC issues advice to the degree programme board, advises about changes to
the curriculum and approves the Teaching and Examination Regulations and its appendices.
You can contact the OC if you have a complaint about teaching in general, specific course
units or related matters such as facilities. The student members of the Programme
Committee can be reached via:
 [email protected]
For more information see:
 http://student.portal.rug.nl/infonet/studenten/fwn/bachelors/artificialintelligence/support/programme-committee
B5.2.4 KISO, the Artificial Intelligence Student Platform
KISO [Kunstmatige Intelligentie Studenten Overleg] is the student platform for Artificial
Intelligence. KISO meets at least four times a year and is open to all AI students. Students
from all cohorts gather in these meetings to discuss the degree programme. If there are any
problems, for example with a particular course unit, they can be discussed here so that
improvements can be made before the course unit ends. Representatives from all types of
student consultative participation, including the Programme Committee, attend these
meetings. This means that the KISO provides direct input to the Programme Committee. The
KISO is also used by student members of consultative bodies to provide feedback to students
and to ask for input towards new ideas and plans. Members of the KISO can be contacted via
 [email protected]
The KISO has a mailing list via which meetings are announced and issues can be raised.
Please send an e-mail to [email protected] to sign up for this mailing list.
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B5.3 MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS TO THE ACADEMIC
ADVISOR
1. Due to illness or personal circumstances, I have not been or will not be able
to study fully for a longer period of time. What should I do?
Answer: Report this immediately to your academic advisor. It is important to report that you
might be incurring study delay as quickly as possible. In some cases you will be eligible for
extra funding (studiebeurs).
2. What is the BSA system?
Answer: The BSA system applies to all students who start a Bachelor's degree programme.
Students must earn at least 45 ECTS credit points before the end of their first year and
complete the propaedeutic phase within two years.
If you fail to earn at least 45 ECTS by the end of your first year of study, you will be issued a
binding (negative) study advice, which means that you must discontinue your degree
programme and will not be allowed to register for the degree programme in Artificial
Intelligence for two years. You may, however, register for other degree programmes. In
addition, you must gain your propaedeutic certificate within two years. If you fail to do so,
you will be issued a binding (negative) study advice.
If you fail to satisfy the BSA requirements due to personal circumstances, you can apply
for an adapted BSA threshold on condition that you contact the academic advisor as soon as
the circumstances arise. More information about the BSA system can be found at:
 www.rug.nl/studenten/studiebegeleiding/eerstejaars/bsa
3. When will I receive my BSA notifications?
Answer: All first-year students will receive a study progress overview in early December, and
a results overview in the form of a preliminary study advice in late February or early March.
All students who have earned at least 45 ECTS credit points will be issued a positive study
advice at the end of the third study period. If at the end of the third study period the
conclusion must be drawn that earning 45 ECTS before the end of the year is not feasible, the
student will receive a negative advice notification. The definitive binding (negative) study
advice will then be issued by the last week of July at the latest.
4. I do not yet have my propaedeutic certificate. Can I start taking secondyear course units?
Answer: Students who have earned at least 45 ECTS credit points but have not yet gained
their propaedeutic certificate must draw up a study plan in consultation with the academic
advisor. They may then only take those second-year course units that are listed in this
planning.
5. I have gained my propaedeutic certificate but have not passed the secondyear Statistics course unit. Can I start my Bachelor's project?
Answer: No, you must have passed the Statistics and Research Methodology course units,
gained your propaedeutic certificate and have earned at least 135 ECTS in Bachelor's course
units before you can start your Bachelor's project.
6. How do I contact the Artificial Intelligence Board of Examiners?
Answer: send an email to:
 [email protected]
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73
7. I want to follow a course unit outside Artificial Intelligence. What are the
conditions that apply?
Answer: All course units listed as electives in our study guide are acceptable, even if they are
course units provided by a different degree programme. For all other course units you need
permission from the Board of Examiners to include them in your AI study programme before
you take the course. You must provide arguments to support your request – a course unit
will only be approved if it is relevant to your studies (in the opinion of the Board of
Examiners) and at a level appropriate to the degree programme.
 [email protected]
8. How many ECTS credit points are the C++1, C++2 and C++3 course units
worth?
Answer: C++ part 1 can be included in your study programme for 2 ECTS, two course units
(either part I and II or part I and III) can be taken for a total of 5 ECTS whereas you can earn
8 ECTS for part I, II and III together.
9. How do I apply for an exemption?
Answer: If you think that you qualify for an exemption, please send an e-mail to the Board of
Examiners. You must submit a statement from the degree programme where you passed the
course unit, a description of the content of the course unit, the student workload in ECTS
credit points and the literature used. A course unit description from Ocasys and a listing of
the result of the course unit in ProgRESS WWW will suffice for students of the University of
Groningen.
 [email protected]
Needless to say, exemption will only be granted if the course unit in question has at least the
same study workload and the same level as the course unit for which you are requesting
exemption.
10. What is the Honours College?
Answer: The Honours College is an extra programme worth 45 ECTS credit points, which is
followed alongside the regular Bachelor’s degree programme. The programme starts
after the first semester of the first year and comprises both in-depth and
broadening course units. The in-depth parts will be related to your own degree
programme and will be followed at your own faculty, while the broadening parts involve
intensive contact with honours students from all the other faculties. This is where you will
look beyond the frontiers of your discipline and where personal development plays a central
role. For more information, please go to:
 http://www.rug.nl/education/honours-college/
11. How can I apply for the Honours College?
Answer: Not every student will be able to follow the Honours College programme. There is a
selection procedure for admission to the Honours College. At the end of the first semester of
the Bachelor's programme, the top 10% within each degree programme will be determined.
These students will be sent a letter and an e-mail with information about the Honours
College, an invitation to attend an information meeting and an invitation to apply for a place
on the Honours programme. Students who do not fall within the top 10% may also
participate in the selection procedure. If the student can convince the Admissions Board on
the basis of his or her CV, letter and if necessary an explanatory meeting that he or she is
sufficiently motivated and suitable for the honours path, the Board may decide to admit the
student.
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12. How do I apply for my propaedeutic certificate?
Answer: The Education Support Centre will do this for you. However, if you do not receive a
notification, please contact the Education Support Centre. See also Chapter B4.4.
13. How do I apply for my Bachelor's degree certificate?
Answer: You must request your degree certificate yourself by enrolling in ProgRESS WWW.
It is advisable to submit your study program approximately 6 months, but no later than 2
months before you wish to graduate. See also Chapter B4.4.
14. I am registered for the Bachelor's degree programme in AI. I don’t have my
Bachelor’s degree yet, but would like to start following Master’s course units.
Is that allowed?
Answer: No, you are not allowed to follow any Master's course units until you have
successfully completed the Bachelor's degree programme in Artificial Intelligence.
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75
B5.4 SOCIETIES
B5.4.1 Cover study association
Cover is the study association for students of Artificial Intelligence and Computing Science.
Cover organizes a wide range of degree-programme related as well as social activities for its
members, such as an introduction camp at the beginning of each academic year where firstyear students of Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence can get to know each other as
well as senior students.
Cover also organizes many social activities, including drinks (in Dutch: borrel), and monthly
games and film nights. In addition, Cover has many specialized committees that organize fun
activities for members, for example a LAN party twice a year.
As well as its social activities, Cover also organizes several study-related activities, including
monthly activities in collaboration with companies, such as lectures and workshops. In
addition, an excursion abroad is held once a year. Previous excursions have visited
Stockholm, Moscow, Dublin and New Zealand to name just a few.
Cover maintains lively contacts with many universities and companies both in the
Netherlands and abroad, and thus offers its members a wide knowledge network. Lectures
about interesting topics are regularly held, and once a year a large symposium about a degree
programme-related theme is organized.
Members of Cover are also entitled to discounts on textbooks. You can order your books one
period in advance, and collect them during the official book sale at the start of the relevant
period.
Cover has about 360 student members, about one-sixth of whom are active in committees or
on the board. A committee consists of a number of members who perform certain duties for
the association. For example, the book committee organizes book sales each period, the
activities committee organizes the majority of all social activities, the study committee is
responsible for study-related activities and the excursion committee organizes the annual
excursion abroad. Joining a committee will enable you to contribute to the study association
in a fun way.
Cover’s aim is to continue working on making the degree programmes even bigger, broader,
better and more fun, and is looking forward to welcoming a whole new cohort of enthusiastic
members again this year!
More information on Cover and its committees can be found on the website:
 www.svcover.nl
This is also where you will find our activities schedule. For more information about the study
association or if you would like to attend one of our activities you can also send an e-mail to:
 [email protected]
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B5.4.2 Axon alumni society
Axon is the alumni society of Artificial Intelligence at the University of Groningen.
It is a good idea to join the Axon alumni society via:
 www.axonline.nl
When you are about to graduate, as membership can help you discover the labour market –
for example you can contact other alumni more easily to get to know more about what they
are doing now.
Drinks
Axon organizes drinks several times a year at different locations, for example in Groningen,
Utrecht or The Hague, to help you stay in touch with your fellow students.
Companies and universities
Not a clue what you want to do after you graduate? Or do you simply want to check out the
available options? Our website contains a list of companies, universities and institutions,
with descriptions and information about whether any members did their final-year project,
worked or still work there. You can contact members via www.axonline.nl to ask them for
more information.
Vacancies
Axon’s website also contains AI-related job advertisements, posted by members who are
working for the companies in question. Here, too, you can contact your fellow members for
‘inside information’ about the company where you would like to apply. In addition, Axon has
made arrangements with many interesting companies, including TNO and Everest, about the
publication of vacancies.
Cover and Axon
Cover and Axon work closely together. Although their target groups partly overlap, the
associations are not each other’s competitors. Cover provides information to students during
their studies, whereas Axon focuses on providing information to graduates.
Questions
Please feel free to contact Axon by e-mail via:
 [email protected]
Or visit the website if you have any further questions:
 www.axonline.nl
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77
B6
COURSE UNIT DESCRIPTIONS
Below are the course unit descriptions, providing information about various aspects of each
course unit, including its content, the name of the lecturer, the period in which it is taught,
the literature used, etc.
Each course unit description starts with its official name and ProgRESS WWW code,
followed by the number of ECTS credit points to be earned and the period in which it is
taught. The 'Course unit offered by' field states the degree programme that teaches the
course unit. You need this information when you register for a course unit and it also
indicates which Education Office you can contact if you have questions about it.
The entry requirements for each course unit are also listed. Students must have the indicated
prior knowledge to participate in a course unit. If a course unit itself provides the prior
knowledge for another course unit, this is also indicated.
The extra information field can contain important information, for example
concerning registration methods, special arrangements for AI students, additional
information on practical assignments, etc. Read this information carefully!
Reservation
Unfortunately, not all details were known when this study guide went to press, which is why
some items have not been filled in. The information missing here will be published on the
website or Nestor page of the relevant course units in due time. Important changes will also
be sent to the [ALL] mailing list.
The most up-to-date information can be found in the online course catalogue Ocasys
 www.rug.nl/ocasys
This is where all course units in the AI study programme can be found.
Although the course unit descriptions have been prepared with the greatest
possible care, mistakes and inaccuracies cannot be completely ruled out. All
information is therefore subject to errors.
Advanced Logic
Lecturer:
EC:
Period:
Course of:
Prerequisite(s):
Objective:
Content:
Format:
Assessment:
Literature:
KIB.VL03
prof. dr. L.C. Verbrugge
5
4
Artificial Intelligence
Introduction to Logic
Familiarity with logic techniques with AI applications.
Topics include: proof by induction, many-valued logic, modal logic,
temporal logic, nonmonotonic reasoning.
lectures, tutorials
assign homework, assignments, written exam
G. Priest, An Introduction to Non-classical Logic(ISBN: 978-0-52167026-5), € 27.00
B. Kooi and R. Verbrugge, Induction Study Guide
J. Barwise and J. Etchemendy, Language, Proof and Logic(ISBN:
1575866323), € 61.00
Reader Advanced Logic, € 1.00
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79
Algorithms and Data Structures in C
INBADC-09
Lecturer:
prof. dr. G.R. Renardel de Lavalette
Contact:
prof. dr. G.R. Renardel de Lavalette
EC:
5
Period:
3
Course of:
Computing Science
Prerequisite(s):
Knowledge of the contents of the course Imperative Programming is
highly desirable.
Objective:
1. Knowledge of several fundamental algorithms and data structures
that are central in Computing Science.2. Ability to write efficient
programs in C for these algorithms.3. Ability to describe algorithms
in pseudocode.4. Ability to solve problems, using the algorithms and
data structures mentioned under 1.5. Ability to report in writing
about assignments involving the knowledge and abilities mentioned
under 2 and 4.
Content:
This course builds on the course Imperative Programming. In the
lectures, the emphasis is on fundamental data structures (e.g.
stacks, queues, linked lists, trees, graphs) and on algorithms
working on these data structures. During the tutorials, the students
develop algorithms and programs. The practicals are devoted to
assignments that are related to the subjects treated in the lectures
and the tutorials. Attention will be paid to ‘good programming’, i.e.
the design of correct, efficient and understandable programs and
their documentation.The programming language used in this course
is C.
Format:
computer exercises, lectures, tutorials
Assessment:
reports, written exam
50% practical exam, 50% written exam, both at least 5.0.
Literature:
Gerard. R. Renardel de Lavalette, Lecture Notes Algorithms and
Data Structures in C 2016/2017
Brian W. Kernighan, Dennis M. Ritchie , Recommended: The C
Programming Language, Second Edition (Prentice Hall, Inc.,
1988)(ISBN: 0-13-110362-8)
80
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Architectures of Intelligence
KIB.AVI03
Lecturers:
S.K. Mehlhorn PhD., prof. dr. N.A. Taatgen
Contact:
prof. dr. N.A. Taatgen
EC:
5
Period:
2
Course of:
Artificial Intelligence
Prerequisite(s):
Recommended: Some programming experience and some
introduction in either cognitive psychology or cognitive science.
Objective:
An architecture of intelligence is an environment to simulate human
intelligent behavior. Architectures are implementations of general
theories of cognition that have the goal to cover the full spectrum of
human cognition.The goals of the class are to give insight in these
architectures and the scientific status, to gain some experience in
building models using an architecture, and to compare simulation
results to empirical data.
Content:
The main architecture we will study is the ACT-R architecture, even
though we will make comparisons with other theories. Each of the
assignments will be centered on a specific problem.
Format:
lectures, assignments(s), practicals
4 hours of lecture and 3 hours of practicals per week
Hours per week:
7
Assessment:
assignments, practical exam, written exam
Grading is based on two essay assignments, three lab assignments
(10% each), and a written exam for the remaining 50%. The
calculation for the resit is the same: the exam is 50%, the original
assignments are 10% each.
Literature:
John Anderson, How can the human mind occur in the physical
universe?(ISBN: 9780195324259), € 40.00
Literature and Practical manual on Nestor
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
81
Artificial Intelligence 1
KIB.KI103
Lecturer:
dr. A. Meijster
Contact:
dr. A. Meijster
EC:
5
Period:
4
Course of:
Artificial Intelligence
Prerequisite(s):
Introduction to Logic and Imperative Programming are desired, but
not required. The student is expected to be fluent in the
programming language C.
Objective:
The aim of the lectures is that students - given a problem in the field
of Artificial Intelligence - will be able to choose a suitable
representation of the problem and the most promising solution
method.The succesful student has knowledge of the following
subjects:1) Agent types2) Uninformed Searching3) Informed
Searching (in particular the A* algorithm)4) Game theory (Minimax
/ alpha-beta algorithm)5) Automatic deduction, reasoning, problem
solving in proposition logic6) Automatic deduction, reasoning,
problem solving in predicate logic7) Knowledge representation
Content:
The lectures will discuss the material and exercise assignments will
be done. Students will learn how the various search strategies in
Artificial Intelligence work, how they can be applied, and for which
types of problems they are suitable. The problem of representation
will also be highlighted. This may occur within the chosen
implementation language in the practicals (C) or by using predicate
logic as a representation language. The following subjects will be
discussed:1) Agent types2) Uninformed Searching3) Informed
Searching (in particular the A* algorithm)4) Game theory (Minimax
/ alpha-beta algorithm)5) Automatic deduction, reasoning, problem
solving in proposition logic6) Automatic deduction, reasoning,
problem solving in predicate logic7) Knowledge representation
Format:
computer exercises, lectures
Assessment:
assignments, written exam, intervening exam
Let L=lab, M=Midterm-exam (first half of course material),
E=Exam (remainder course material). The final grade (F) is
obtained: F=(2*L+3*M+3*E)/8. In case of a resit (E=resit):
F=(L+3*E)/4 under the constraint that L, M >= 5. If M, E < 5, then
F = minimum (M, E). A student needs to have finished all labs to be
eligible to take part in the (resit)exam.
Remarks:
This course is an entry requirement for the course Artificial
Intelligence 2
Literature:
S. Russell & P. Norvig, Artificial Intelligence, a modern approach,
Prentice Hall, 3rd edition or newer
82
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence 2
KIB.KI203
Lecturer:
prof. dr. L.R.B. Schomaker
Contact:
prof. dr. L.R.B. Schomaker
EC:
5
Period:
1
Course of:
Artificial Intelligence
Prerequisite(s):
Recommended: Statistics, Artificial Intelligence 1 (Russell & Norvig,
first part of book).
Objective:
This course is intended to introduce topics not handled in the
introductory course (KI-1) and other advanced topics in artificial
intelligence.
Content:
Topics: Planning, Symbolic vs Statistical Learning, Grammar
Induction, aspects of Computational Learning Theory,
Heterogeneous Information Integration, Data Mining and
Knowledge Discovery.
Format:
computer exercises, lectures
Assessment:
written exam, obligatory practicals
Practicals are obligatory and graded, together with the final exam
Literature:
Russell & Norvig, Artificial Intelligence, a modern approach (2002)
2nd Edition
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
83
Autonomous Systems
KIB.AS03
Lecturer:
dr. M.A. Wiering
Contact:
dr. M.A. Wiering
EC:
5
Period:
1
Course of:
Artificial Intelligence
Objective:
Acquiring insight in the field of Robotics and Autonomous Systems
and their design principles.
Content:
The behavior of autonomous systems is a result of both the internal
mechanisms and the interaction with the environment. Autonomous
systems can be robots interacting with the real world, but also
simulated agents interacting with a simulated world. An
autonomous system should be able to perceive the world and behave
in an appropriate manner. In this course, we will discuss a number
of important aspects among which embodied cognition, sensors,
machine learning, and artificial life.
Format:
computer exercises, discussion, lectures, interactive meeting(s),
student presentations, tutorials
Besides the lectures, the course contains practical sessions
Assessment:
laboratory exam, written exam
The final mark is based on an exam (50%) and the marks for the
reports of the practical sessions (50%). Both grades should be
higher than 5.0 in order to pass this course
Remarks:
The course is an entry requirement for: Autonomous Systems
Practical
Literature:
R. Siegwarts and I.R. Nourbakhsh, Autonomous Mobile Robotics
(interesting for further reading material, but not necessary to
buy)(ISBN: 9780262195027)
Maja Mataric, The Robotics Primer(ISBN: 9780262633543)
84
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Autonomous Systems Practical
KIB.PAS05
Lecturer:
A. Shantia MSc.
Contact:
prof. dr. L.R.B. Schomaker
EC:
5
Period:
3
Course of:
Artificial Intelligence
Prerequisite(s):
Autonomous Systems.
Objective:
To acquire skills in the design and implementation of various types
of autonomous systems on different robot platforms.
Content:
In this practical, students will design a number of different
autonomous systems and implement them on robots. These systems
will shed light on the different aspects of working with robots and
autonomous systems, such as the use of sensors and actuators,
processing images, navigation and learning.
Format:
Practicals: The students work in the robotlab. They work together in
small groups of 2 or 3 people due to the limited number of robots.
Assessment:
report, intervening exam, mandatory attendance, reports
The students are assessed on the following criteria. 1- Python Test
(10%) 2- Presence (10%) 3- Group Activity Report (30%) 4- Final
Paper (50%)). The minimum grade requirement for the paper is 5.5.
Remarks:
A maximum of 40 students is able to follow the course. It is possible
to extend this practical by 5 ECTS in period 4 (Autonomous Systems
Practical Extension).
Literature:
to be announced
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
85
Autonomous Systems Practical Extension
WBAI14001
Lecturer:
A. Shantia MSc.
Contact:
prof. dr. L.R.B. Schomaker
EC:
5
Period:
4
Course of:
Artificial Intelligence
Prerequisite(s):
Autonomous Systems, Autonomous Systems Practical
Objective:
To acquire skills in the design and implementation of various types
of autonomous systems on different robot platforms.
Content:
In this practical, students will design a number of different
autonomous systems and implement them on robots. These systems
will shed light on the different aspects of working with robots and
autonomous systems, such as the use of sensors and actuators,
processing images, navigation and learning.
Format:
project
Students work independently in groups in the robot lab. A
superviser will be available for questions.
Assessment:
paper, practical exam, report, intervening exam, mandatory
attendance, reports
The students are assessed on the following criteria: 1- Project
Demonstration and Group Work (40%) 2- Final Paper (60%)
Remarks:
A maximum of 40 students is able to follow the course. It is possible
to extend the Autonomous Systems Practical to 10 ECTS by
following this course.
86
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Bachelor’s Project
KIB.PROJ03
Lecturer:
dr. F. Cnossen
EC:
10
Period:
Periode 3 & 4
* This course can also be taken in other periods
Course of:
Artificial Intelligence
Prerequisite(s):
Propaedeutic exam, 135 EC, Statistics and Research Methods
Objective:
To develop research skills by conducting a medium-sized research
project.
Content:
The Bachelor’s project is the final activity of the Bachelor’s
programme. It includes (compulsory) tutorials on research
philosophy and ethics, methodology and statistics, and academic
writing. The course will also include help in developing project
management skills.With regard to content, the project links up with
one or more of the modules in the AI study programme. This means
that in general, it will not be necessary to study much additional
literature for the project and the emphasis will be more on the
practical work.Bachelor’s projects are performed within the AI
department and are usually part of the research activities of the AI
staff.Students are strongly advised to start looking for projects
before the start of the semester. Check Nestor for information on
how to secure a project.There are formal Graduation Regulations
regarding the Bachelor’s project. The project has to be finished
within one semester.
Format:
combined lectures/tutorials, project
The project is usually done individually.
Assessment:
assignments, presentation, final paper
Paper of the project, assignments and presentation at the end of the
semester
Remarks:
This course should be followed in the second semester, at the end of
the Bachelor. The variant in semester 1 is *not* for third-year
students.
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
87
Basic Scientific Skills
KIB.WBV06
Lecturer:
S.K. Mehlhorn PhD.
Contact:
S.K. Mehlhorn PhD.
EC:
5
Period:
3
Course of:
Artificial Intelligence
Objective:
To acquire insight in the scientific process and to get to know basic
scientific methods in the fields of Artificial Intelligence and
Cognitive Science.Students will acquire a number of basic scientific
skills: They will learn how to find and evaluate relevant scientific
literature, how to find and test good scientific research questions,
how to write and to review a scientific article, and how to give
presentations on a scientific topic.
Content:
During the first part of the course, an introduction to science and
scientific skills is provided in five lectures. Lecture topics include:
the philosophy and history of science, basic scientific methods,
basics of data analysis, and the communication of scientific results
in the form of written articles and oral presentations. For the entire
duration of the course, students attend practicals where they apply
the theoretical knowledge from the lectures by working on their own
research projects in small groups. Homework assignments are given
that help to progress through the research project and each
student’s project is concluded with an oral presentation and a
scientific article.
Format:
lectures, assignments(s), practicals
Assessment:
assign homework, paper, presentation, mandatory attendance
Mandatory attendance to the lectures and practicals, homework
assignments, a final scientific article and a final scientific
presentation about the student’s chosen research project. The final
mark is determined by: homework assignments (30%), final
presentation (30%), and final paper (40%). The final paper needs to
receive a passing grade in order to pass the course.
Remarks:
This course has a compulsory attendance.
Literature:
Literature will be made available during the course.
88
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Biopsychology
Lecturers:
Contact:
EC:
Period:
Course of:
Objective:
Content:
Format:
Hours per week:
Assessment:
Literature:
PSBE1-04
dr. M.R. Nieuwenstein, dr. J. Jolij
dr. M.R. Nieuwenstein
5
4
Psychologie
After the course the student knows:- the methods used in research in
the field of (cognitive) neuroscience,- the principles underlying
neural communication,- neuroanatomy and the principles mediating
development and plasticity of the nervous system,- the physiological
mechanisms underlying sensation, movement, learning and
memory, language, consciousness, emotions, temperature
regulation, sleep and waking,- the biological basis of depression and
schizophrenia.
This course deals with the anatomy and physiology of the nervous
system, and how the nervous system enables the processing of
information, the regulation of internal processes (homeostasis) and
behaviour (the motor system), rhythmic processes (including sleep),
emotion and motivation, lateralization of the brain, language, and
psychopathology.
lecture
4
written exam (multiple choice) DIGITAL
Kalat, J.W.(2016), Biological Psychology (12th edition)(ISBN: 9781-305-10540-9), € 60.00
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
89
Calculus for Artificial Intelligence
WPMA14003
EC:
5
Period:
2
Course of:
Mathematics
Objective:
Knows the basic elements, methods and applications of single
variable Calculus with respect to-functions-differentiation-Taylor
expansions-integration-complex numbers-differential equations
(general 1st order, linear 2nd order)
Content:
The course starts with refreshing and improving the basic
mathematical skills (BMS).Then real functions of one real variable
are treated: standard and composed functions, models, limits,
derivatives, extrema, Taylor expansions, integration (applications
and techniques).Subsequently complex numbers are introduced, an
imaginary extensions of the real numbers.Finally, differential
equations are solved to describe processes in physics, economy,
medical sciences, etc. This topic includes: initial value problems,
directional fields, equilibrium and stability, separation of variables,
variation of constants, homogeneous and inhomogeneous systems,
Euler’s method, conversion of complex solutions into real-valued
solutions.The material is illustrated through examples that focus on
the applications of mathematical techniques.
Format:
lectures, tutorials
Lectures, tutorials, computer-assisted tutorials to improve basic
mathematical skills.
Assessment:
assign homework, written exam, intervening exam
The grade for this course is composed of the grades for homework
HW, the midterm exam MT and final exam ET: grade = (3*ET + MT
+ HW)/5), with constraint that ET should be larger than 4.5. After
the regular teaching and examination period, the benefits of HW
and MT expire. The final grade then equals the grade for the reexamination. There are 2 exams to test the Basic Mathematical
Skills (BMS). The grade for BMS will be included in the grade ET of
the final exam.
Literature:
James Stewart, Calculus. Early transcendentals. Newest (7th)
Edition (International Student Edition), London: Thomson
Learning (ISBN: 978-0-538-49887-6)
90
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Cognition and Attention
PSB3E-CP02
Lecturers:
dr. E.G. Akyürek, dr. P.H. de Vries, dr. J. Jolij, prof. dr. M.M. Lorist
Contact:
prof. dr. M.M. Lorist
EC:
5
Period:
3
Course of:
Psychologie
Objective:
On successful completion of this course, students will be expected to
be able, at threshold level, to:- compare and contrast different
theoretical models of attention,- critically evaluate different methods
used to study attention,- outline the interaction of attention with
other cognitive functions.
Content:
The ability to selectively attend to relevant information in the world
around us or to divide attention among multiple tasks are different
facets of attentional processing. Attention prevents distraction and
enables humans and animals to dedicate perceptual, cognitive, and
motor resources to deal with the most pressing environmental
challenges. Because of the major role of attention in guiding
behaviour, a dysfunction of the attention systems can have a major
impact on the individual, but also the societal level. Therefore,
understanding the neural mechanisms of this core cognitive function
is a central goal in neuroscience. In addition, understanding how
attention mechanisms operate is critical for advancing the important
mission of developing the most effective training regimes for a wide
range of tasks, as well as for creating new methods for
education.This course addresses the basic neuroscience of how the
brain controls and maintains the focus of attention, and how
attention influences sensory and motor processes. A selection of
theoretical models, mechanisms and findings in the neuroscience of
attentional control and selection will be discussed, with an emphasis
on the different methods and experimental paradigms used to study
attention.
Format:
lecture
Hours per week:
4
Assessment:
written exam (essay)
Literature:
A selection of journal papers (the links will be provided during the
course)
Anna C. Nobre and Sabine Kastner, Chapters from: The Oxford
handbook of attention. Oxford University Press (2014) (available
online: http://proxyub.rug.nl/login?url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/oxfordhb/9780199
675111.001.0001)
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
91
Cognitive neuroscience
PSB3E-CP06
Lecturer:
dr. A.A. Wijers
Contact:
prof. dr. R. de Jong
EC:
5
Period:
4
Course of:
Psychologie
Objective:
Upon successful completion of the course, the student:- knows the
central theoretical trends and themes of the interdisciplinary field of
Cognitive Neuroscience,- knows the research methods and
techniques currently used in this field to study brain-behavior
relations.
Content:
Cognitive neurosciences is the study of the relationships between
task performance, task environment and physiological processes as
made apparent using neuroimaging methods such as EEG, PET,
fMRI. This concerns both fundamental research into the
architecture and neuro-anatomical foundation of specific processes
that are fundamental to mental functions and applied research into
changes in cognition and brain mechanisms resulting from
psychiatric and neuropsychological disorder, mental fatigue and
ageing.
Format:
lecture
Hours per week:
4
Assessment:
written exam (essay)
exam consists of multiple-choice questions and essay questions
Literature:
Purves, D. et al. (2013, 2nd edition), Principles of Cognitive
Neuroscience. Sunderland, MA: Sinauer Associates, Inc. (ISBN:
978-0-87893-573-4), € 95.00
92
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Cognitive Psychology
KIB.CP06
Lecturer:
dr. F. Cnossen
Contact:
dr. F. Cnossen
EC:
5
Period:
2
Course of:
Artificial Intelligence
Objective:
After the module, students should understand the methods of
research in cognitive psychology and the most important research
results from cognitive psychology.
Content:
This module is an introduction to the most important concepts and
research results in cognitive psychology. Subject to be dealt with
include perception, focused and divided attention, working memory,
long-term memory, knowledge, intelligence, reasoning, logical
thinking, judgment and decision making, and consciousness.A
computer practical forms part of the module, where students can
experience the phenomena discussed themselves. Students will write
a research report on such an experiment, which they will present at
the tutorial meetings.
Format:
tutorials, lectures, practicals
Assessment:
presentation, written exam, mandatory attendance, reports
The final mark is determined by: written exam (60%), essay (15%),
presentation (15%) and homework assignments (10%)
Remarks:
This course is an entry requirement for the course Cognitive Science
Practical.
Literature:
D. Reisberg, Cognition: Exploring the Science of the Mind. Edition 6
(Edition 5 is no longer accepted)(ISBN: 978-0-393-93867-8),
€ 65.00
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
93
Cognitive Science Practical
KIB.PRCS08
Lecturers:
dr. M.K. van Vugt, dr. J.K. Spenader
Contact:
dr. M.K. van Vugt
EC:
5
Period:
3
Course of:
Artificial Intelligence
Prerequisite(s):
Cognitive Psychology, Statistics
Objective:
To acquire practical skills in the area of cognitive science:- being
able to formulate a research question on the basis of literature
research- being able to program a cognitive science experimentbeing able to collect data to address the research question- being
able to perform statistical tests to test the hypothesis- being able to
interpret and present research findings
Content:
During the practicum cognitive science the students will perform an
experiment related to a current question in cognitive science. The
practical will address the whole process starting from formulating
the research question to presenting the final results. Topics that will
be addressed are experiment design, executing an experiment,
analysis and scientific reporting.The actual research is related to
current research in the AI department. Topics can include working
memory capacity, visual working memory, and attentional blink.
Format:
practicals, tutorials
Assessment:
essay, attitude, oral or written report of group work, presentation,
laboratory exam
94
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Computational Grammar
LIX025B05
Lecturers:
dr. G. Bouma, dr. B. Plank
Contact:
dr. G. Bouma
EC:
5
Period:
3
Course of:
Humanities computing
Prerequisite(s):
45 ECTS of the propaedeutic exam. Logic Programming
(LIX003B05).
Objective:
The students will understand and compare different existing
grammar formalisms. They will be able to write context-free, definite
clause, and unification grammars, and understand their formalisms,
together with those behind dependency and (combinatory) categorial
grammar. They will also be able to write parsers in Prolog, and
evaluate them. They will know what treebanks are, how they are
built, and how they can be exploited in NLP.
Content:
This is an introductory course in computational grammar.
Grammars in (computational) linguistics are sets of rules that define
what (natural language) strings are legal. Context-free grammars
(CFGs) are a simple yet powerful tool for representing (portions of)
natural languages and are convenient to work with especially when
translated as Definite Clause Grammars (DCGs) in Prolog. Issues
such as agreement, and verb subcategorisation make writing such
grammars interesting, also from a linguistic perspective. However,
other formalisms exist, such as dependency grammars, unification
grammars, and categorial grammars, and they will be part of the
course as well. Parsing will be discussed as the natural tool to obtain
derivations, and treebanks will be shown and discussed.
Format:
computer practicals, lecture
Hours per week:
4
Assessment:
computer assignments, written exam
Literature:
Blackbum, Bos, Striegnitz, - Learn Prolog Now!, chapters 7 and 8
(Definite Clause Grammars)
Jurafsky and Martin, - Speech and Language Processing, chapters
12, 13, 14
- Syllabus Computationele Taalkunde en Taaltechnologie I
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
95
Computer Graphics
INBCG-08
Lecturer:
J. Kosinka PhD.
Contact:
J. Kosinka PhD.
EC:
5
Period:
3
Course of:
Computing Science
Prerequisite(s):
The course unit assumes the following prior knowledge:- familiarity
with a mainstream programming language, ideally C++.- having
developed a small application in a mainstream programming
language (over 500 lines of code) - basic calculus and linear algebra
notions (univariate function analysis, derivatives, gradients, matrixvector products, inner/outer products, matrix inverse) - familiarity
with basic programming data structures and algorithms (arrays,
trees, lists, graphs, sorting algorithms, traversal algorithms)
Objective:
Students are able to1) use basic concepts for the design,
implementation, and use of graphic systems and algorithms,2)
describe how graphics systems work,3) employ the mathematical
models behind graphic system operations.
Content:
This course introduces the main concepts behind two-dimensional
and three-dimensional computer graphics such as scan-conversion,
transformations including the necessary linear algebra, the
rendering pipeline with its stages, local and global illumination
models, and shape representations. Lectures are accompanied by
practicals with mandatory presence. These practicals will deepen the
understanding of the presented material through implementation,
presentations, and discussions. The course is closely related to
image processing, computer vision, scientific visualization, linear
algebra, and object-oriented techniques.
Format:
lectures, practicals
Lecture/seminar, partially given by the lecturer (2h per week) and
partially by the students themselves (2h per week, presence is
mandatory), plus self-study (reading, paper authoring, lecture
preparation, and coding; 108h in total).
Hours per week:
4
Assessment:
assignments, mandatory attendance, written exam
The final grade of the course is derived as follows: 50% from
participation in practicals and completing programming
assignments, and 50% from a final written exam. If the grade for
practicals or written exam is below 5.0, the maximum final grade is
5.0. Attendance at practicals and student presentations is
mandatory.
Remarks:
This course unit is best followed by students in their third year.The
course unit prepares students for ‘Advanced Computer Graphics’
and ‘Scientific Visualization’, in which the learning objectives
attained are required as prior knowledge, and is closely related to
‘Image Processing’ and ‘Computer Vision’ and object-oriented
techniques.
Literature:
Peter Shirley and Steve Marschner, ”Fundamentals of Computer
Graphics”, third (or fourth) edition, 2009. A K Peters Ltd. (ISBN:
978-1-56881-469-8)
Plus lecture slides and comprehensive Nestor pages
96
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Functional Programming
INBFP-08
Lecturer:
dr. A. Meijster
Contact:
dr. A. Meijster
EC:
5
Period:
1
Course of:
Computing Science
Content:
A program in a functional programming language can be roughly ten
times shorter than an imperative program with the same
functionality. And, the execution speed is often not much less.
Functional languages are ideally suited to algorithm development
and rapid prototyping. In a functional language, a variable within its
scope has the same meaning everywhere (referential transparency).
This means that functional programs are relatively easy to analyse.
In Haskell and some other functional languages, the value of an
expression is only calculated if it is necessary (lazy evaluation). This
means that it is possible to work with infinite data structures (e.g. a
list of all prime numbers). Functional languages are based on the use
of functions that if required can have functions as an argument and
can produce functions as a result. The typing of a function or
expression is thus very important. The aim of the module is to teach
students to design and analyse a range of functional programs,
whereby an understanding of the efficiency and general typing
aspects is very important.Information about the practical:Three
practical assignments, in order to introduce students to various
aspects of functional programming. The practical and the exam must
be done in the same academic year.
Format:
lectures, practicals, tutorials
Assessment:
practical exam, written exam
Let P=practicals, E=Exam. The final grade (F) is obtained as follows:
F = (3*P+4*E)/7, under the constraint that E and P both are >= 4.5.
Literature:
Simon Thompson, Haskell: the craft of functional programming,
3rd Ed.(ISBN: 978-9-201-88295-7)
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
97
General Linguistics
KIB.ATW03
Lecturer:
dr. J.K. Spenader
Contact:
dr. J.K. Spenader
EC:
5
Period:
4
Course of:
Artificial Intelligence
Objective:
Introduction to the various aspects of linguistics, introduction to the
methods and techniques used in linguistics and an introduction to
the conceptual framework of linguistics.
Content:
The use of language is a cognitive skill that is typically human. This
module will discuss which knowledge is essential to speak and
understand language. This knowledge will be studied from a number
of subfields of linguistics: phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax,
semantics and pragmatics. These subjects will be dealt with at an
introductory level. The ways in which natural language can be
systematically studied will also be illustrated, following the dominant
view in current linguistics to view language ability as a rulegoverned, symbolic system. Finally, attention will be paid to the
differences and similarities between various languages, to the way
that children learn their mother tongue and to cognitive processes in
relation to language. Throughout the course how linguistic
knowledge can be utilized for language and speech technology
applications is highlighted.
Format:
lectures, tutorials
Assessment:
written exam
50% of the final mark is determined by the grade on the written
exam, the other 50% of the final mark is the grade on the written
weekly assignments
Remarks:
This course is an entry requirement for the courses:-Language and
Speech Technology -Natural Language Processing
Literature:
Handouts
98
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Human error
Lecturers:
Contact:
EC:
Period:
Course of:
Objective:
Content:
Format:
Hours per
week:
Assessment:
Literature:
PSB3E-M06
prof. dr. K.A. Brookhuis, prof. dr. D. de Waard
prof. dr. D. de Waard
5
2
Psychologie
After the course students:- know conditions that make human errors
become disasters,- know and understand the importance and the scope of
the wider area of the context in which such disasters happen,- know basic
concepts for the cognitive and work psychology that form the foundation
of such disasters,- know methods to investigate the relation between the
basic concepts and disaster conditions,- know how knowledge and
application of these basic concepts in the design of work, situations and
activities may promote more safety,- know the concept “safety culture”
and related aspects,- can analyze in a case description the underlying
aspects that contributed to errors becoming a disaster.
All too often the human is considered a hazard – a system component
whose unsafe acts are implicated in the majority of catastrophic
breakdowns. However, this is a limited view on the matter, as people act
within a system and most people do not wish to make errors or cause
disasters. Moreover, there is another perspective that should be studied
in its own right – the human as hero, whose adaptations and
compensations bring troubled systems back from the brink of disaster.
The basic premise of this course is that even when an accident can be
traced to the erroneous act of an individual, the actions of the individual
need to be understood within the context of environmental, societal, and
organizational factors. This course provides an introduction to basic
topics in work and cognitive psychology central to minimizing human
error. Topics such as designing work to maximize performance and
health, work-related mental stress, and selection and training are
accompanied by an introduction to techniques used to investigate and
classify human error. Emphasis is given to institutional safeguards
against error situations.
lecture
2
written exam (multiple choice), paper (individual)
combination of individual assignment and MC exam
Reason, J. (2013), A life in error. From little slips to big disasters(ISBN:
978-1-4724-1841-8), € 18.00
Klein, G. (2011), Streetlights and Shadows: Searching for the Keys to
Adaptive Decision Making(ISBN: 978-0262516723), € 16.00
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Human factors
Contact:
EC:
Period:
Course of:
Objective:
Content:
Format:
Hours per week:
Assessment:
Literature:
99
PSB3E-CP04
prof. dr. K.A. Brookhuis
5
3
Psychologie
After this course students- know and understand the principles of
cognitive ergonomics,- know and can explain the ergonomic
applications of psychological theories and models,- know and can
apply the most important ergonomic evaluation and research
methods,- can make a simple hierarchical task analysis.
Cognitive ergonomics (Human Factors in Anglo-Sakson) applies
knowledge of human abilities and limitations to the design of userfriendly systems and products. Systems and products are designed
to increase performance efficiency while decreasing the chances of
error or accidents. The emphasis in this course will be on applying
basic concepts from human information processing, including the
nature of perception, attention, and memory, to the development
and evaluation of work and training environments, human-machine
interfaces, and consumer products.
lecture
2
paper (individual), written exam (multiple choice)
C.D. Wickens et al., An introduction to Human Factors
Engineering(ISBN: 9781292022314), € 61.00
Papers via Nestor
100
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Imperative Programming
INBIMP-09
Lecturer:
dr. A. Meijster
Contact:
dr. A. Meijster
EC:
5
Period:
1
Course of:
Computing Science
Prerequisite(s):
Knowledge of the compulsory material from the VWO second phase
Nature and Health profile, or similar knowledge, is required.
Objective:
This module aims to make a start on developing skills to progress
from an informal research question to a correct program. In addition
to the syntax and semantics of several C constructions, special
attention will be paid to problem-solving: how to convert a research
question into an algorithm/program in C.
Content:
The Imperative Programming module forms, together with the
Object-oriented Programming and Advanced Object-oriented
Programming modules, a broad basic introduction to imperative and
object-oriented programming. This first module will deal with
common control structures in imperative languages (choice,
repetition, recursion). Since this is the first module students take,
some attention will also be paid to the practical system and the
present standard programs.Lectures: constructs of the C
programming language are presented, inspired by informal problem
formulations.Tutorials: elementary exercises (on paper).Practicals:
practical exercises (on computer). The exercises made during the
practicals are a bit more complex than the ones discussed during the
tutorials. There are weekly deadlines for the labs. The student must
pass all weekly labs in order to be admitted to the final exam. In
some weeks, a lab report needs to be written as well.There is a
practical mid-exam. During this mid-exam the students will solve 5
programming exercises in three hours time (using the computer).
The course is concluded by an exam.
Format:
lectures, practicals, tutorials
Two 2-hour lectures, one 2-hour tutorial and one 2-hour practical
per week.
Assessment:
computer test, intervening exam, reports
Let P=Practicals, M=Mid-exam, E=Exam. The final grade F is
obtained as follows: if E<5 then F=E else F=(2*E+P+M)/4.
Remarks:
IMPORTANT: Please note that this course has limited capacity!
Enrolment takes place on a first-come, first-served basis, with the
exception of students from CS and AI, for which this is an obligatory
course. In other words, if you want to take this course as an elective,
you may register but this does not guarantee that you can take part;
in case the capacity limit has been exceeded, de-registration takes
place on the 15th of August 2016.
Literature:
A. Meijster, Imperative Programming (reader), € 7.00
Brian W. Kernighan and Dennis M. Ritchie., The C Programming
Language, Second Edition, Prentice Hall. (ISBN: 0-13-110362-8 )
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
101
Information Security
INBSEC-08
Lecturer:
dr. F.B. Brokken
Contact:
dr. F.B. Brokken
EC:
5
Period:
1
Course of:
Computing Science
Objective:
Obtain theoretical and practical experience in aspects of
Information Security
Content:
This course covers both theoretical and practical aspects of
Information Security. Following a general introduction of the
thoughts behind and importance of Information Security (e.g., CIA)
aspects of Cryptography will be discussed. Stream and block cyphers
will be contrasted and currently important encryption methods
(e.g., AES) as well as hashing algorithms (e.g., SHA-1) will be
presented in detail. Public key cryptography, among which
PGP/GPG, will be compared to symmetric key cryptography as used
by, e.g., AES. Encryption often requires certain protocols (think of
SSL). During this course several of such protocols will be studied.
Authentication and Authorization will be discussed as well as the
security implications of software. The practice sessions will focus on
items like faking identities, PGP/GPG, encryption, and DiffieHellman key exchange methods.
Format:
lectures, assignments(s)
Assessment:
assignments, written exam
written exam (E), combined with the ratings of exercises (R): final
grade: if (E <= 4.0) then E else max(E, .4 * E + .6 * R)
Literature:
Mark Stamp (Wiley), Information Security (Second edition, 2011)
(ISBN: 978-0-470-62639-9)
102
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Introduction Intelligent Systems
INBINTS-08
Lecturers:
prof. dr. M. Biehl, prof. dr. N. Petkov
Contact:
prof. dr. N. Petkov
EC:
5
Period:
1
Course of:
Computing Science
Prerequisite(s):
Basic programming skills, knowledge of mathematics and statistics
that is typical of the respective courses included in standard bachelor
curricula.
Objective:
Students will obtain an overview of the main methods and
techniques used in pattern recognition and machine learning, and an
idea of some basic operations in image processing. At the end of the
course, students will be able to understand basic problems of
machine learning and pattern recognition. They should be able to
select appropriate techniques for particular tasks. Students should
be able to implement basic learning and validation methods and
apply them to practical data sets.
Content:
Computer Vision: A very brief introduction to computer vision is
given. Then edge detection and morphological image processing are
treated in more detail. At the end of the course students should be
familiar with and able to apply basic methods of, for instance,
segmentation, morphological image processing, and edge
detection.Pattern Recognition: General ideas and basic techniques of
pattern recognition are considered, such as statistical decision theory
and hypothesis testing, Bayesian classification, parametric
classification and normal distributions, non-parametric classification
and the knn-method. Clustering is illustrated by the k-means
method. Algorithms for hierarchical clustering are presented.
Finally, decision trees are also presented. Theories and methods are
illustrated by practical applications.Machine Learning: Basic ideas of
learning systems are presented and discussed referring to biological
learning and neural networks. Machine learning is outlined and
explained mainly in terms of classification problems, with emphasis
on distance-based methods such as Learning Vector Quantization as
an example framework. Validation methods and the problem of overfitting are briefly discussed in terms of classification and regression
problems.
Format:
lectures, practicals
Hours per week:
4
Assessment:
written exam
The final mark will be computed as a weighted average of the marks
for the practicals (40%) and the written examination (60%). In order
to pass, students must get a sufficient (at least 6) for each of these
separately. A student will be admitted to the written (re)examination only if the requirements are met.
Remarks:
The computer practicals are in Matlab. It would be helpful if
students have some programming experience in Matlab. Otherwise,
they should quickly acquire some Matlab programming skills by
following an on-line tutorial (many are available on internet). This is
not difficult because Matlab is easy to learn on the background of
some programming skills in another programming language.
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
103
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence and Cognitive Science
KIB.ORKI03
Lecturers:
S.K. Mehlhorn PhD., prof. dr. N.A. Taatgen
EC:
5
Period:
1
Course of:
Artificial Intelligence
Objective:
To acquire an overview of the most important aspects of Artificial
Intelligence and Cognitive Science at an introductory level, and to
gain skills and understanding in formalizing aspects of human
intelligence.
Content:
This module provides an overview of the subjects dealt within the
Artificial Intelligence program. Human and artificial intelligence
will be approached from different angles, concentrating on the
following topics: what is intelligence, the anatomy and working of
the brain, differences and similarities between brains and
computers, observation and optical illusion, remembering and
forgetting, language and language disorders, reasoning, different
forms of learning, neural networks, cognitive modelling,
consciousness and the philosophical problem of body and mind. The
focus in all these topics will be on the question of formalization: how
can we gain a better understanding of a phenomenon by creating a
formal description of it, whether in a mathematical, computational
or logical formalism. In addition, the module will focus on several
applications of Artificial Intelligence in the field of knowledge
technology and cognitive ergonomics.
Format:
lectures, assignments(s)
The course will consist of 2x2 hours of lectures per week.
Hours per week:
4
Assessment:
assign homework, assignments, written exam
The final grade will be based on 5 assignments, 10% each, and a
written exam for the remaining 50%. The calculation for the resit is
the same: the exam is 50%, the original assignments are 10% each.
Remarks:
Make sure to order the book in time, because it will be needed in the
first week. You can also use the first edition of the book.
Literature:
José Luis Bermúdez, Cognitive Science 2nd edition(ISBN:
9781107653351), € 55.00
104
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Introduction to Information Systems
INBIIS-08
Lecturer:
dr. H. Balsters
Contact:
dr. H. Balsters
EC:
5
Period:
2
Course of:
Computing Science
Prerequisite(s):
Advisable: Logic
Objective:
To gain understanding of and skills in the design, realization, and
use of databases; to acquire skills in the ORM-method for analysing
and designing a database as well as in formulating questions and
transactions in the SQL language; get acquainted with some other
(modeling) aspects of databases.
Content:
Databases, users, database management systems and architectures;
ORM modelling for the conceptual design of databases; data
abstraction and semantic data modelling; the relational data model,
integrity constraints and update operations, mapping ORM designs
to the relational model; the SQL language; capita selecta.
Format:
lectures, practicals, tutorials
Four hours of lectures per week. Additionally, in the first 4 weeks
there will be 2 hours of tutorial sessions, and in the last 4 weeks
there will be 2 hours of practicals per week. Self-study in total 92 hrs.
Assessment:
The final grade is the grade of the exam (possibly raised with a bonus
for the homework assignments), on condition that the practical
assignments received a pass mark.
Literature:
Terry Halpin, Information Modeling and Relational Databases, 2nd
Ed. 2008, by Morgan Kaufmann Publishers.
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
105
Introduction to Logic (AI & Philosophy)
WPAI14001
Lecturers:
prof. dr. B.P. Kooi, prof. dr. L.C. Verbrugge
EC:
5
Period:
2
Course of:
Artificial Intelligence
Objective:
A first introduction to formal logic and the development of skills in
using logical symbols.
Content:
Procedure and content: The course consists of two components that
run parallel to each other: A (a general part) and B (a part for
Artificial Intelligence). Part A starts with a general introduction that
explains some of the key concepts of logic. It will then deal with
propositional logic and predicate logic. Part B provides more indepth information about propositional and predicate logic. In this
module, students develop skills in analyzing sentences and
reasoning, using symbolisms, assessing the validity of reasoning,
making formal deductions, using formal semantics and deriving
normal forms for formulas. During the tutorials students can
practise using the computer teaching program Tarski’s World and
with software for constructing proofs in Fitch. Active participation in
these tutorials is required.
Format:
lectures, practicals, tutorials
Assessment:
assign homework, written exam, intervening exam
Remarks:
Prerequiste for: Advanced LogicIs desired for Logical Programming
Literature:
David Barker-Plummer; Jon Barwise; John Etchemendy, Language,
Proof and Logic(ISBN: 978-1-57586-632-1), € 70.00
R. Verbrugge, J. IJsselmuiden and B. Kooi , Syllabus Introduction to
Logic (downloadable from Nestor)
106
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Knowledge and Agent Technology
KIB.KT03
Lecturer:
prof. dr. H.B. Verheij
EC:
5
Period:
1
Course of:
Artificial Intelligence
Objective:
Acquiring knowledge and skills of knowledge and agent technology
Content:
This course is about knowledge and agent technology. Knowledge
technology is one of the success stories of the field of Artificial
Intelligence as its classic techniques have become mainstream in
computer science and industry. Still classic knowledge technology
(roughly: the state of the art in the 1980s) has strong limitations.
One of these is the limited attention for communication and
interaction, hardly imaginable in today’s internet era. Agent
technology builds on knowledge technology in order to address such
limitations. This course provides an introduction to classic and
contemporary knowledge and agent technology. Topics addressed
include rule-based systems, communication, coordination,
negotiation and cooperation between software agents.
Format:
computer exercises, lectures
The final grade is determined by taking 75% of the exam grade and
25% of the grade for the practicals.
Assessment:
practical exam, written exam
Remarks:
Required for Knowledge Technology Practical
Literature:
Michael Wooldridge, An Introduction to Multiagent Systems. 2nd
edition. Chichester: John Wiley & Sons.(ISBN: 9780470519462)
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
107
Knowledge Technology Practical
KIB.PKT10
Lecturer:
prof. dr. H.B. Verheij
Contact:
prof. dr. H.B. Verheij
EC:
5
Period:
2
Course of:
Artificial Intelligence
Prerequisite(s):
Knowledge and Agent Technology
Objective:
To acquire and develop skills in the field of knowledge systems. To
design and construct a knowledge system on the basis of expert
knowledge.
Content:
The course addresses basic techniques for designing knowledge
systems. Attention is paid to inference mechanisms and knowledge
representation with rules and objects, techniques for knowledge
acquisition and designing a user interface. In the course, students
design and construct a full-fledged knowledge system. Expert
interviews, project planning, and reporting and presentation of the
knowledge system are addressed.
Format:
tutorials, computer exercises, lectures
Assessment:
assignments, practical exam, presentation, report
108
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Language and Speech Technology
KIB.TST03
Lecturers:
dr. J.K. Spenader, dr. S.M. van Netten
Contact:
dr. J.K. Spenader
EC:
5
Period:
1
Course of:
Artificial Intelligence
Prerequisite(s):
General Linguistics
Objective:
The module is an introduction to speech perception and language
processing.
Content:
The course has two parts. One part deals with speech production and
speech perception. We look in detail at the physical characteristics of
the speech signal and how they can be linked to physiological
characteristics of the speech organ. Human speech perception will
be examined from the construction and workings of the ear up to
and including signal processing in the central nervous system. A
brief introduction will also be given to automatic speech perception.
The second part of the course concentrates on methods and
applications in language technology. Topics such as corpus
linguistics, tagging, parsing, machine translation and question
answering systems and the techniques used are discussed. The
course also include a number of lab sessions where the techniques
discussed are examined in more detail.
Format:
lectures, practicals
There are three lab sessions.
Assessment:
examination and laboratory reports
Remarks:
This course is an entry requirement for the courses Language
Technology Practical and Speech Technology Practical
Literature:
Reader with selected articles
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
109
Language Technology Practical
KIB.PTT07
Lecturers:
dr. G. Bouma, prof. dr. G.J.M. van Noord
Contact:
dr. G. Bouma
EC:
5
Period:
4
Course of:
Artificial Intelligence
Prerequisite(s):
Language & Speech Technology
Objective:
• Understanding of the role of syntactic analyses in question-answer
systems.• The ability to integrate the output of an automatic parser
into a question-answer system.• Understanding of technologies to
represent knowledge on the web, such as Linked Open Data (RDF)
and data-querying technologies (SPARQL).• The ability to work with
Sparql endpoints, and with libraries to approach them from within
an application.
Content:
This course treats a number of practical applications in language
technology. With implemenations and project work, those
applications are further illustrated and analysed. The nature of the
applications is subject to change each year. The last few years
applications such as the following were discussed: spell correction,
language to speech, automatic language classification, questionanswering systems.
Format:
practicals
Assessment:
assignments, report, written exam
110
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Learning: Theory and practice
PSB3E-M14
Lecturers:
prof. dr. R. de Jong, prof. dr. P.J. de Jong, dr. M.J.J. Lommen
Contact:
prof. dr. R. de Jong
EC:
5
Period:
2
Course of:
Psychologie
Objective:
Upon successful completion of the course, the student:- knows
current theories of the major forms or systems of learning and
memory,- appreciates and understands the various opportunities
and challenges with regard to applications of this knowledge in the
domains of education, training and rehabilitation, and therapy.
Content:
Each of the lectures will focus on a specific type of learning and
memory, such a classical conditioning, operant conditioning, skill
acquistion, and working memory. Fundamental principles and
theories will be discussed, with an emphasis on how this knowledge
currently is, or could be, applied in the domains of education,
training, and therapy (for instance, application of principles of
classical conditioning in the treatment of phobias or the use of
working-memory training methods in the treatment of learning
disorders). Each week, students will hand in a written assignment or
essay, based on the lecture and assigned readings.
Format:
lecture
Hours per week:
2
Assessment:
assignments
weekly assignments
Remarks:
Each week an essay will be written, based on a number of assigned
articles, and submitted by each student in advance of the lecture on
that specific topic. After each lecture, students will reflect critically
upon their essay and will have the possibility to submit a revision.
(Not accessible to external students)
Literature:
Reader available via Nestor
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
111
Linear Algebra &Multivariable Calculus for Artificial
WPMA14005
Intelligence and Computing Science
Lecturer:
prof. dr. R.M. Mendez
EC:
5
Period:
4
Course of:
Mathematics
Objective:
Knows the basic elements, methods and applications of both linear
Multi Variable Calculus (also known as Linear Algebra) and nonlinear Multi Variable Calculus:- vectors (linear independence,
basis,dimension)- systems of linear equations- linear
transformations- matrix operations- determinants- eigenvalues and
eigenvectors- systems of (first-order) linear differential equationsbasic geometry (lines, planes and intersections)- partial
differentiation- extrema, gradient, tangent planes, linear
approximations- multiple integration
Content:
In this course, first basic concepts and skills in the area of linear
algebra are discussed. Subsequently, functions of one variable are
extended to multi-variable functions, with topics such as: partial
derivatives, directional derivatives, gradients, extrema and multiple
integration.The material is illustrated through examples that focus
on the applications of mathematical techniques.
Format:
lectures, tutorials
Assessment:
assign homework, written exam, intervening exam
The grade for this course is composed of the grades for homework
HW, the midterm exam MT and final exam ET: grade = (3*ET + MT
+ HW)/5), with constraint that ET should be larger than 4.5. After
the regular teaching and examination period, the benefits of HW
and MT expire. The final grade then equals the grade for the reexamination.
Literature:
James Stewart, Calculus. Early transcendentals. Newest (7th)
Edition (International Student Edition), London: Thomson
Learning (also used for Calculus)(ISBN: 978-0-538-49887-6)
David C. Lay, Linear Algebra and Its Applications, 4th ed. Pearson
International Edition
112
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Neural Networks AI
KIB.NNKI03
Lecturer:
dr. S.M. van Netten
Contact:
dr. S.M. van Netten
EC:
5
Period:
3
Course of:
Artificial Intelligence
Prerequisite(s):
Obligatory: Linear Algebra & Multivariable Calculus, Calculus for AI
Objective:
Familiarization with some neural networks and application of these
networks on practical problems
Content:
This module comprises a theoretical and a practical part. The
theoretical part will deal with the following topics: basic features of
biological neurons, the excitability of neurons, comparison of
biological and artificial neurons, the McCulloch-Pitts neuron, the
perceptron, multilayered networks, energy functions and the delta
rule, back propagation, associative networks, self-organizing
networks, adaptive resonance theory, perspectives, and
catagorization and specification of neural networks. The practical
part focuses on the engineering aspects of neural networks. By
means of different problems and available measurement data, the
following aspects will be dealt with: whether or not the problem is a
neural network problem, choice of network type and network size,
choice of learning rules, setting up a learning project, evaluating and
testing a trained neural network, use and usability of the design
software, realization of the neural solution in software (MATLAB).
Format:
lectures, computer exercises
Homework and hands-on assignments are obligatory and a
passmark on these assignments is required.
Assessment:
examination and laboratory reports
Final Mark: Round off F. If E < 5, F=E; if E>=5 , F=E*2/3 + L/3 ],
where E = Written exam or resit, L = average lab reports and F =
Final Mark
Literature:
A selection of original research papers will be provided via Nestor
Kevin Gurney, An introduction to Neural Networks(ISBN:
9781857285031), € 48.00
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Neurophysics
Lecturers:
Contact:
EC:
Period:
Course of:
Prerequisite(s):
Objective:
Content:
Format:
Hours per week:
Assessment:
Literature:
113
KIB.NF07
dr. S.M. van Netten, dr. M.K. van Vugt
dr. S.M. van Netten
5
1
Artificial Intelligence
Calculus for AI, Linear Algebra & Multivariable Calculus
The course is specifically intended for bachelor students Artificial
Intelligence. Main goal of the course is to gain insights into
quantitative descriptions and analysis methods for physical
phenomena related to elementary mechanics and electricity, the
latter especially related to spike generation.
1. Mechanics (Newton’s laws; conservation laws; energy-balance;
elasticity; undamped and damped mass-stiffness systems;
harmonically forced- and unforced oscillators, linear analysis) 2.
Electricity (electrical circuits; applications of membrane biophysics
in neurophysiology; Hodgkin & Huxley model; Morris-Lecar model,
action potentials, nonlinear analysis)3. “Capita selecta”:
Computational Neuroscience and Reinforcement learning.
Homework assignments will be linked to these topics. 4. Practical
assignments (reports): Computer practical “Action Potentials”
(obligatory presence).
lectures, practicals, tutorials
Variable
assign homework, practical exam, written exam
Final mark: Round off F. If E < 5, F=E; if E>=5 , F=0.6 *E + 0.2 *A+
0.2*L , where E = Written exam or resit, A = average homework
assignments, L = average lab reports and F = Final Mark.
Syllabus will be available at the repro of the BB during the first
week of the course.
114
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Object-Oriented Programming
INBOGP-08
Lecturers:
prof. dr. A. Lazovik, dr. R. Smedinga
Contact:
prof. dr. A. Lazovik
EC:
5
Period:
4
Course of:
Computing Science
Prerequisite(s):
Students are assumed to have programming skills equivalent to
passing the module Imperative Programming.
Objective:
The aim of this module is to introduce students to object-oriented
technologies, supported by the facilities offered by the Java
language. Object-oriented design falls outside the scope of this
module, more specifically:a. define principles of OOP [knowledge],b.
classify basic design patterns [comprehension]c. recognize them in
existing API and applications [analysis],d. apply OOP principles and
use learnt Java programming techniques (Java API,e. develop
complex stand-alone applications with UI in Java based on
OOPexception handling, generics) in practice [application]principles
[synthesis]
Content:
Following the modules Imperative Programming and Algorithms
and Data Structures, this module makes up the wide-ranging
introduction to object-oriented programming.In Imperative
Programming, objects were discussed, but only as mechanisms to
cluster data that belong together, together with operators for them.
This module will concentrate more on the object-oriented aspects of
Java: inheritance, polymorphism, generics, and annotations. We will
also cover more advanced topics of Java: exception handling, IO
operations, logging, and reflection. In addition, we will examine how
to increase Java developer’s productivity by using available open
source tools.
Format:
computer exercises, lectures, tutorials
Independent work: In the lecture weeks, 7 hours a week; 30 hours of
revision for the exam.
Assessment:
practical exam, written exam
20% labs, 40% final project, 40% written exam – no result below 5.
Literature:
Walter Savitch, ”Absolute Java”, 3nd Edition, Addison-Wesley. The
book is recommended, yet it is optional.(ISBN: 9780321505040)
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
115
Parallel Computing
INBPAR-08
Lecturer:
prof. dr. N. Petkov
Contact:
prof. dr. N. Petkov
EC:
5
Period:
4
Course of:
Computing Science
Prerequisite(s):
Students should be able to program in C or C++.
Objective:
Students will get an overview of the world of parallel and highperformance computing and know where to find up-to-date
information, be able to make an estimation of the inherent
parallelism in an existing program and the possible achievable
speed-up, have knowledge of parallel architectures and parallel
algorithms, know APIs for parallel programming and be able to
parallelise existing programs or write new parallel programs.
Content:
This module is an introduction to architectures, programming
paradigms and other aspects of parallel computers. It includes
parallel programming in OpenMP, MPI and Pthreads. Various
parallel algorithms are presented.
Format:
computer exercises, lectures
Assessment:
assign homework, practical exam, written exam
The final mark is based on the grade for the written exam (50%) and
the weighted average grade of the practical assignments (50%). Both
these grades need to be at least 6 in order to pass the course.
Literature:
Recommended literature will be announced on Nestor.
116
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Philosophy of Cognitive Science
FI053CW
EC:
5
Period:
2
Course of:
Philosophy
Prerequisite(s):
Ba Philosophy of a specific discipline, Ba Philosophy, Ba Artificial
Intelligence, Ba of a basic discipline of the cognitive sciences, Minor
Philosophy
Objective:
The course presents an overview of the main conceptual issues in
philosophy of cognitive science. After the course, students will be
able to identify methodological and metaphysical presuppositions in
cognitive science and to understand how these presuppositions
influence scientific practice.
Content:
What does cognitive science teach us about the human mind?
Through a historical-systematical synopsis, the main trends in
cognitive science will be discussed. Each approach has its own
conceptual presuppositions, offering both opportunities and
limitations.
Format:
lecture
expository lectures and text discussion
Hours per week:
Variable
Assessment:
written exam
Written exam (80%) and weekly assignments (20%)
Literature:
Texts will be made available on Nestor
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
117
Philosophy of Science
FI090WET
Lecturer:
dr. M. Pauly
EC:
5
Period:
2
Course of:
Philosophy
Prerequisite(s):
none
Objective:
The student knows central problems, questions, concepts and
theories from the philosophy of science as well as central
philosophers of science and their visions. The student can apply
these to actual cases of scientific research. The student gains an
awareness of the limits of scientific knowledge.
Content:
We discuss features of scientific reasoning, the difference between
science and pseudoscience, properties of a scientific explanation,
realism versus antirealism, scientific progress and revolutions,
criticism of scientific rationality. We discuss a number of historical
case studies of scientific discussions, as well as examples of kinds of
knowledge that may be beyond the limits of science.
Format:
discussion group, lecture
lecture & discussion group
Hours per week:
Variable
Assessment:
written exam
written exam
Remarks:
Lectures will be 3 hours and will also include discussionsWhile
attendance is not mandatory, students are required to submit one
participation item which contributes to class discussions, either in
writing or orally.
Literature:
articles to be made available online
Oxford University Press, Philosophy of Science: A Very Short
Introduction, by Samir Okasha(ISBN: 978-0-19-280283-5), € 10.00
Cambridge University Press, The Golem (second edition), by Collins
and Pinch(ISBN: 978-1107604650), € 16.00
118
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Philosophy of the Natural Sciences: Physics and Metaphysics
FI153LH
Lecturer:
dr. L. Henderson
Contact:
dr. L. Henderson
EC:
5
Period:
2
Course of:
Philosophy
Prerequisite(s):
None. The course will include a minimal introduction to some formal
aspects of physics, but will assume no prior knowledge beyond some
very elementary mathematics.
Objective:
To provide an introduction to some of the key philosophical
problems raised by physics. The course will also develop students’
ability to analyse philosophical problems in a precise and rigorous
manner.
Content:
The course will cover central topics in philosophy of physics,
including philosophical problems associated with Newtonian
mechanics, special relativity, quantum mechanics and thermal
physics.
Format:
discussion group, lecture
Lectures and discussion
Assessment:
essay, written exam
Essay and written exam
Literature:
Tim Maudlin, Princeton University Press, Philosophy of Physics:
Space and Time(ISBN: 978-0691165714)
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
119
Problem Analysis and Software Design
WBCS16000
Lecturers:
prof. dr. E.O. de Brock, dr. R. Smedinga
Contact:
dr. R. Smedinga
EC:
5
Period:
2
Course of:
Computing Science
Prerequisite(s) The course unit assumes prior knowledge acquired from object oriented
:
programming (bachelor programme Computing Science) or alike. At least
elementary knowledge on object-oriented programming and terminology is
required.
Objective:
At the end of the course, the student should be able to:a. use gained
experience in using methods and tools for problem analysis and software
design efficiently b. structure and redefine problems and ask adequate
questions (problem analysis) c. make a good design for a software
application (software design) d. get to the heart of a problem using
abstraction and modelling and be able to indicate whether existing solutions
are applicable (patterns)e. adequately document the results of problem
analysis and software design so that the client can discuss about the
requirements and the programmer is able to implement the desired
applicationf. work in a project-based way and in a team to come to an
problem analysis and software design.
Content:
This module deals with the analysis of (a part of) a problem and the
development of software with the help of the so-called Unified Process (UP)
method. The first lectures will largely deal with problem analysis according
to the UP, including use cases and UML notation, and the question of how
requirements can be deduced from a case. Subsequently, software design
according to the UP will be discussed. A separate lecture will be devoted to
Design Patterns (using the book by Gamma et al.) and will pay attention to
the ‘design by contract’ principle (including an introduction to the OCL). The
final lecture will deal with the subject of how to work on a large-scale
assignment by working in a project, and how to use the methods and
techniques mentioned above to design a well-functioning implementation.
Format:
tutorials, assignments(s), lectures
Assessment:
oral exam, report
Remarks:
Students need to write their final report in a number of iterations. A special
case is used and this case will be extended and/or changed a couple of times
to let students feel that in reality clients will change their requirements while
the project is going. The reports will be commented by the teaching
assistants and the lecturers. The final reports will be carefully read and
discussed with the students. The different iterations of the final report (resp.
10%, 25% and 40%) and the defense (oral exam; 25%) will be graded
separately. The defense is graded separately and may differ from the grading
of the final report in two ways: it might be much lower if students cannot
orally argue why they have made certain decisions, and it might be much
higher if e.g. mistakes or omissions in the report are improved orally.
Argumentation is very important and can have positive effects on the final
grades.Although the reports and the oral exam are graded per group, we can
distinguish between the work of the individual members. Beforehand we
provide an abstract scheme and students have to mention in their reports
who has done what.
Literature:
Craig Larman, Applying UML and Patterns, an Introduction to ObjectOriented Analysis and Design(ISBN: 0-13-148906-2)
Course documents on Nestor (Lecture Notes)
Gamma, Helm, Johnson, Vlissides, Design Patterns (This book is optional)
(ISBN: 0-201-63361-2)
120
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Programming in C/C++ (part I)
RC-C++1
Lecturers:
J. Bokma, dr. F.B. Brokken
EC:
5
Period:
1
Course of:
CIT Courses
Content:
see for further
information:[url=http://www.icce.rug.nl/edu/1/studiegids.shtml]Pr
ogramming in C/C++ [/url].
Programming in C/C++ (part II)
RC-C++2
Lecturers:
J. Bokma, dr. F.B. Brokken
EC:
5
Period:
2
Course of:
CIT Courses
Content:
For further information:
see[url=http://www.icce.rug.nl/edu/2/studiegids.shtml]Programmi
ng in C/C++ [/url]
Programming in C/C++ (part III)
RC-C++3
Lecturers:
J. Bokma, dr. F.B. Brokken
EC:
5
Period:
3
Course of:
CIT Courses
Content:
see for further
information:[url=http://www.icce.rug.nl/edu/3/studiegids.shtml]Pr
ogramming in C/C++ [/url].
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
121
Requirements Engineering and Software Startups
WBCS15001
Lecturer:
J.S. van der Ven
Contact:
prof. dr. ir. P. Avgeriou
EC:
5
Period:
1
Course of:
Computing Science
Prerequisite(s):
Having taken ‘Software Analysis and Design’ and ‘Software
Engineering 1 & 2’ or similar courses.
Objective:
After completion of this course, the student should be able to:understand the role of requirements in software developmentidentify stakeholders and be able to elicit important information
from them- understand the effects of the feedback loop from idea to
requirements to product use in a startup setting- estimate work
based on previous experiences- be able to clarify their own ideas
about a product - have experience with changing requirements in
software startups
Content:
This course teaches requirements engineering and idea evolution.
First, the theory and practice of requirements elicitation will be
discussed and practiced. This includes interview techniques,
modelling methods and templates used, and estimation techniques.
Special attention will here be on non-functional requirements and
the product-to-requirements feedback aspect. Second, software
requirements evolution will be practiced, and the students will gain
experience in startup-thinking and the role of changing
requirements in this.
Format:
tutorials, lectures, practicals
lecturer: Jan Salvador van der Ven
Assessment:
assignments
30% individual assignments, 40% pitches and demos, 30% team
documents. More details see webpage lecturer.
Literature:
Online syllabus
122
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Research Methods (Data analytics & communication)
KIB.OZM10
Lecturer:
dr. M.K. van Vugt
Contact:
dr. M.K. van Vugt
EC:
5
Period:
3
Course of:
Artificial Intelligence
Prerequisite(s):
Statistics
Objective:
At the end of this course, the student should be able to:- develop
experiment/analysis design for reproducible science- know how to
create reproducible workflows- recognize questionable research
practices and invalid conclusions- tell accurate and convincing
stories about collected data- use computer-intensive methods for
data analysis- compare different (statistical) models
Content:
While people could easily be replaced in running statistical tests on
that, interpreting the results and communicating those to others are
much more difficult skills that cannot be mastered by a computer. In
this course we develop these crucial skills. We think together about
how to go about asking good questions for solving a scientific or
societal problem, how to conduct reproducible research, and how to
communicate the obtained results. This highly interactive course will
provide the student with crucial skills for successfully completing a
Bachelor project and for being an effective data scientist.
Format:
lectures, interactive meeting(s), student presentations,
assignments(s), practicals, discussion, combined lectures/tutorials
Assessment:
presentation, practical exam, written exam, mandatory attendance
This is a course where you’ll be working from the start; practicals are
very important. The grade consists of class participation (5%),
presentation about a statistical test (5%), assignments (40%), closedbook exam (50%).
Literature:
Readings on Nestor
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
123
Signals and Systems
KIB.SENS12
Lecturers:
dr. A. Meijster, dr. S.M. van Netten
Contact:
dr. A. Meijster
EC:
5
Period:
2
Course of:
Artificial Intelligence
Prerequisite(s):
It is recommended to have passed the course units Calculus (either
for AI or CS) and Linear Algebra & Multivariable Calculus for AI&CS
before taking this course.
Objective:
Introduction to digital signal processing and discrete linear systems
theory.
Content:
The module consists of lectures and tutorials/practicals. The
following topics will be dealt with: linear time variant systems, time
domain and time frequency domain analysis, the Z transform, the
design of recursive and non-recursive filters, the discrete Fourier
transform, the FFT, spectra, windows and the processing and
analysis of signals in noise (‘random’ signals). During the tutorials,
the theory will be applied by the students in examples, the use of
MATLAB will be introduced and experience will be gained for the
exam.
Format:
combined lectures/tutorials
Assessment:
examination and laboratory reports
Final grade: MAXIMUM(Practical+Homework+2*Examination,
Practical+3*Examination)/4 IF Practical, Examination >=5
Otherwise MINIMUM(Practical,Examination)
Literature:
J.H. McClellan, R.W. Shafer en M.A. Yoder, Signal Processing
First(ISBN: 0131202650)
124
Bachelor’s degree programme Artificial Intelligence
Statistics (AI and CS)
WISTAKI-07
Lecturer:
prof. dr. E.C. Wit
EC:
5
Period:
1
Course of:
Mathematics
Objective:
The aim of the course is that - the students learn to reason from a
statistical point of view;- the students learn how to implement
various statistical test to solve practical data-driven problems;- the
students learn the first principles of a linear and logistic regression
model;- the students learn how to programme simulation and
analysis methods in R.The student is able- to formulate a real
problem in terms of quantitative measurable outcomes; - to explore
the data from an applied problem in terms of descriptive statistics
and/or visualizations in R;- to formally analyze the data using a
variety of statistical tools, such as hypothesis tests, confidence
intervals, linear regression, logistic regression and ANCOVA in R;- to
interpret and critically discuss the results of the formal analysis;- to
programme stochastic simulations in R.
Content:
Statistics is about extracting meaning from data. In this class, we will
introduce techniques for visualizing relationships in data and
systematic techniques for understanding these relationships. The
course will make use of the R programming environment to analyze
the data and will be encouraged to use R to implement stochastic
simulations.
Format:
lectures, practicals
4 hours lectures, 4 hours computer labs
Assessment:
computer assignment, computer test, assignments
huiswerk/practicum-opdrachten. Aanwezigheid bij de werkcolleges
is verplicht. Tentamen bepaalt voor 40% het eindcijfer.
Remarks:
This course unit constitutes compulsory prior knowledge for the
Bachelor’s project for artificial intelligence students.
Literature:
Verzani, J., Using R for introductory statistics, 2005, CRC Press,
€ 43.00
C
Rules, Regulations
and Addresses
Rules, Regulations and Addresses
127
C1
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Many things treated in this Study Guide are based on formal documents approved on the
basis of the Higher Education Act by the Board of the University, the board of the faculty,
the faculty counsel or by the Board of Examiners. In case of doubt or in case of conflicts it
is advisable the refer to these formal documents. Of importance are the following.
C1.1 STUDENT CHARTER
The Student Charter
The Student Charter provides an overview of the rights and obligations of both students and
the University. It is based on national legislation, particularly the Higher Education and
Research Act (WHW), supplemented by regulations that are specific to the University of
Groningen. These latter regulations are set out in the appendices to the Student Charter.
The Act stipulates that the Student Charter comprises two sections: a university-wide section
and a programme-specific section.
 The university-wide section describes the rights and obligations that apply to the
University as a whole, such as registration and protection of rights. You can find this
section on the Student Portal. The university-wide section of the
Student Charter does not literally quote the articles from acts and regulations but
describes them as clearly as possible. The various topics are accompanied by links to
the relevant articles of the act or regulation in question.
 The programme-specific sections describe the rights and obligations that apply to
specific degree programmes. These sections include the Teaching and Examination
Regulations (OER), Rules and Regulations for examinations and final assessment
and other regulations and provisions set by the various degree programmes and
faculties. You can consult your programme-specific section at the faculty Education
Offices and in the Study Guides.
Applicability
The Student Charter applies to academic year 2015-2016. The university-wide section of the
Student Charter is approved annually by the Board of the University and endorsed by the
University Council. In the event that the Charter challenges or contradicts any legal
regulations, these legal regulations will take priority.
Publication
At the start of the academic year all students will be sent an e-mail by the Board of the
University informing them where they can find the Student Charter on the internet and
where they can consult a hardcopy of the Student Charter.
Using the Student Charter
All students are expected to be familiar with the contents of the Student Charter. Not
complying with the rules in the Charter may affect your rights, for example the right to
financial support from the Graduation Fund.
Some of these regulations may not be as hard and fast as they sound. Rules and regulations
are by definition general in character, and this Student Charter is no exception. This means
that the applicability of these regulations in concrete situations and individual instances is
not always a predictable and straightforward matter. Students who have registered for the
first time this year may find that the regulations that apply to them are different to those for
students who have reregistered. Make sure you are provided with the right information by
your faculty and/or University Student Desk and read the Student Charter and the associated
regulations carefully.
128
Rules, Regulations and Addresses
Items in the Student Charter
The university-wide section of the Student Charter contains information on the rights and
obligations of students regarding the following items:
- Admission;
- Registration and deregistration;
- Tuition fees;
- Teaching, including the binding study advice;
- Examinations and final assessments;
- Financial assistance;
- Consultative participation;
- Rules of behaviour;
- Legal rights.
C1.2 TEACHING AND EXAMINATION REGULATIONS (OER)
The Teaching and Examination Regulations is established by board and council of the
faculty. It contains a number of regulations with respect to structure and content of the
degree programmes, form and frequency of examinations, admission regulations,
tutoring, cum laude, etc.
The OER can be found at the Student Portal.
C1.3 RULES AND REGULATIONS OF THE BOARD OF EXAMINERS
The Rules and Regulations of the Board of Examiners contain a number of additional
regulations concerning examinations: e.g. registration for examinations, procedures for
exemptions, assessment, fraud, cum laude, etc.
The Rules and Regulations of the Boards of Examiners of the degree programmes of the
Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences can be found at the Student Portal.
Rules, Regulations and Addresses
C2
ADDRESSES CENTRAL BODIES UNIVERSITY OF
GRONINGEN
C2.1 GENERAL ADDRESSES
Board of the University (CvB)
Postal address:
P.O. Box 72, 9700 AB Groningen, the Netherlands
Telephone:
(050) 363 5285
University Council (U-raad)
Postal address:
P.O. Box 72, 9700 AB Groningen, the Netherlands
Telephone:
(050) 363 8535
E-mail:
[email protected]
Website:
www.rug.nl/uraad
Legal Affairs Office (ABJZ)
Postal address:
P.O. Box 72, 9700 AB Groningen, the Netherlands
Telephone:
(050) 363 5440
Donald Smits Center for Information Technology (CIT)
Visiting address:
Zernikeborg, Nettelbosje 1
Postal address:
P.O. Box 11044, 9700 CA Groningen, the Netherlands
Telephone:
(050) 363 9200
E-mail:
[email protected]
Website:
www.rug.nl/cit
CIT Helpdesk
Telephone: (050) 363 3232
E-mail:
[email protected]
Health, Safety and Environment Service (AMD)
Visiting address and postal and address:
Visserstraat 49, 9712 CT Groningen, the Netherlands
Telephone:
(050) 363 5551
E-mail:
[email protected]
Website:
www.rug.nl/amd
Office of the Confidential Advisor
Marijke Dam, Confidential Advisor
Visiting and postal address:
Visserstraat 47, 9712 CT Groningen, the Netherlands
Telephone:
(050) 363 5435
E-mail:
[email protected]
Website:
www.rug.nl/vertrouwenspersoon
Complaints Committee for harassment, sexual harassment and aggressive,
violent or discriminatory behavior (SIAGD)
Postal address:
Antwoordnummer 172, 9700 AB Groningen, the Netherlands
129
130
Rules, Regulations and Addresses
C2.2 ADDRESSES FOR STUDENTS
University Student Desk (USD)
Visiting address:
Broerstraat 5
Postal address:
P.O. Box 72, 9700 AB Groningen, the Netherlands
Telephone:
(050) 363 8004
Website:
www.rug.nl/insandouts
www.rug.nl/usd
Or myuniversity > frequently asked questions
International Service Desk (ISD)
Visiting address:
Broerstraat 5
Postal address:
P.O. Box 72, 9700 AB Groningen, the Netherlands
Telephone:
(050) 363 8181
E-mail:
[email protected]
Website:
www.rug.nl/isd
Student Service Centre
Visiting address:
Uurwerkersgang 10
Postal address:
P.O. Box 72, 9700 AB Groningen, the Netherlands
Telephone:
(050) 363 8066
E-mail:
[email protected]
Website:
www.rug.nl/ssc
NEXT Career Services
Visting address:
Uurwerkersgang 10
Postal address:
Postbus 72, 9700 AB Groningen
E-mail:
[email protected]
Website:
www.rug.nl/next
Central Portal for the Legal Protection of Student Rights (CLRS)
Postal address:
P.O. Box 72, 9700 AB Groningen, the Netherlands
Website:
www.rug.nl/clrs
University Funds Committee (UFC)
Postal address:
P.O. Box 72, 9700 AB Groningen, the Netherlands
E-mail:
[email protected]
Rules, Regulations and Addresses
131
C3
FACULTY ADDRESSES
C3.1 BUILDINGS
-
-
-
Linnaeusborg (buildings U, 5171–5174): Centre for Life Sciences,
Nijenborgh 7, 9747 AG Groningen; telephone reception (050) 363 2021.
Open: 8:00 – 20:00.
Bernoulliborg (building V, 5161): ESC – Mathematics – Computing Science
Artificial Intelligence, Nijenborgh 9, 9747 AG Groningen; telephone reception
(050) 363 6868.
Open: 8:00 – 20:00.
Nijenborgh 4 (buildings X, 5111–5121): Chemistry–Physics–Environmental
Sciences – Industrial Engineering and Management – Nanoscience,
Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen; telephone reception (050) 363 4133.
Open: 8:00 – 20:00.
Kapteynborg (building J, 5419): Astronomy, Landleven 12, 9747 AD Groningen;
telephone secretary (050) 3634074
Open during office hours, ring the bell to enter the building
ADL1 (buildings 3211–3217/3219): ESD, Medical Sciences, Dentistry and
Pharmacy, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen; telephone reception
(050) 363 8000.
Open: Mon–Thurs: 8:00 – 20:30; Fri: 8:00 – 17:30.
For a map, route description and more information about the buildings, see:
 www.rug.nl/fwn/organization/locaties
See Chapter C4 for maps of the buildings of the faculty.
C3.2 LIBRARY
Central Medical Library
Location:
Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen
Winkelstraat 1 or Poortweg 12, 4th floor, Y 4.202
Telephone:
(050) 363 3048 and/or (050) 361 2596
E-mail:
[email protected]
University Library Zernike
Location:
Nettelbosje 2, 9747 EA Groningen
2nd floor of the Duisenberg building
Telephone:
(050) 363 3708
E-mail:
[email protected]
C3.3 EXCHANGE OFFICE
Henriëtte Mulder
Location:
E-mail:
Bernoulliborg, Nijenborgh 9, room 5161.0050,
[email protected]
Margriet Hulshof
Location:
E-mail:
Antonius Deusinglaan 1, room 3213.0017
[email protected]
See:

myuniversity.rug.nl/infonet/studenten/fwn/studerenbuitenland/algemeneinformatie/contactexchange
132
Rules, Regulations and Addresses
C3.4 EDUCATION SUPPORT DESK
ESD Zernike
Location:
Opening hours:
Phone:
ESD ADL
Location:
Opening hours:
Telephone:
E-mail:
Bernoulliborg, Nijenborgh 9, building 5161, first floor
10:30 – 12:00 (all week days)
13:00 – 15:00 (not on Wednesday and Friday)
(050) 363 4422 (9.00 – 12:00 and 13:00 – 16.00)
UMCG, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, building 3214, ground floor
12:00 – 14:00
(050) 363 3315 or (050) 363 3343
(9.00 – 12:00 and 13:00 – 16.00)
[email protected]
Rules, Regulations and Addresses
133
C4
LOCATIONS
C4.1 ZERNIKE
N
Linnaeusborg
Nijenborgh 7
9747 AG Groningen
tel. 050 363 2021
5174
Zernikeplein
Bernoulliborg
Nijenborgh 9
9747 AG Groningen
tel. 050 363 6868
5171
5172
ingang
V
5161
U
ingang
5173
Zernikelaan
Nijenborgh
5118
5114
5113
5112
ingang
Blauwborgje
Tentamenhal
Nijenborgh
5111
5115
5116
5117
5121
X
Chemie–Fysica–Milieukunde
Nijenborgh 4
9747 AG Groningen
tel. 050 363 4133
Translation:
 Ingang=Entrance
 Chemie-Fysica-Milieukunde = Chemistry – Physics – Environmental Sciences – Industrial
Engineering and Management – Nanoscience
 Tentamenhal= Examination building, Aletta Jacobs
134
Rules, Regulations and Addresses
C4.2 ADL
N
ADL2
Ant. Deusinglaan 2
9713 AW Groningen
phone 050 363 3270 / 8000
Bloemsingel
3111
entrance
Oostersingel
entrance
3226
3211
3221
3212
3219
3214
3213
3216
3215
Medical Sciences,
Dentistry and
Pharmacy (ADL1)
3217
Ant. Deusinglaan 1
9713 AV Groningen
phone 050 363 8000
University Medical Center
Groningen (UMCG)