Utrecht University Debate Platform (=DUB)

Editor-in-Chief Armand Heijnen and adviser / project coach Marlies Bonnike, Director of Punta Est, are discussing DUB.

DUB is Utrecht University’s new digital platform for news and debate. Can you explain why we need such a forum? 

Armand: “Interest in the former Ublad was dwindling while the University clearly requires an independent, central news channel. In view of the developments in ‘media land’ we decided that a digital medium would be our best bet.”

Marlies: “We have created a platform for staff and students to meet up and to link them to the University. It will not only meet their information demand but also encourage interaction.”

Independent?

Armand: “We have opted for an open source-system on the world wide web. This means that everyone can see what is happening at our University and even comment on it or join a debate. It is the apex of transparency and independence! This, to my opinion, is the project’s real innovative streak – more so even than our choice for a digital approach. I do not know of any other institution that is willing to open up as we will be doing, and make it as vulnerable. By backing and funding this site Utrecht University shows it really has guts!’

Marlies, you coached this process. What does that imply?

Marlies: “I was asked as an external consultant to contribute my expertise in communications and in developing new media. My company applies a funnel perspective, focusing on the user and recipient. I first centred on the University’s main features, its core values. I then zoomed in on the impact these have on the way staff and students inform and communicate with each other. This led to a concept, in this case an on-line medium, with external options and links to social networks. A lively and topical platform, realising an enhanced involvement and impact from all parts of the University as well as from any other interested parties.”

Armand: “Obviously, this requires a different role of the editors. Our editors will have to become debate moderators rather than news hounds. They will still need to know all that is going on at Utrecht University, in the student world and in higher education, but they will need to trigger the academic community to critically discuss these topics. That’s why we will be using student-editors who are very close to our largest target group.  And, last but not least, we expect quite some input from bloggers. We have invited opinion makers to join our platform: students, staff, alumni, but also people from outside the University.”

Marlies: “It will become a platform for the academic community to interact with each other as well as with the world around them about public and academic issues. This will break the isolation of the former Ublad, which seems a great benefit.”

And now?

Armand: “Now we will have to get as many of you as possible to join in!” 

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