About Grand Challenges

What is Grand Challenges?
What does the programme involve?
Who’s it aimed at?
How do I choose which dilemma to study?
I’m studying at the Cornwall Campus – will I also be able to take part?
How do I sign up?
Do I have to attend?
What are the benefits of taking part?
When is it and how long does it last?

What is Grand Challenges?

The Grand Challenges programme is designed to provide all first year students with the opportunity to work in interdisciplinary research groups. You will have access to our top academics along with inspirational world leading experts to produce solutions and ideas to address some of the key dilemmas of our 21^st Century.  

Starting from your very first week at Exeter, you’ll be introduced to the scheme and the kind of dilemmas you’ll go on to investigate. After Week 6 of the first term, you’ll select which dilemma you wish to investigate following some taster sessions.

Your first year will then conclude with an 11-day programme where you will work with fellow students, academics and external experts to intensely investigate your area of interest. During the programme you will also have the chance to enhance your skills as well as participate in an exciting range of cultural, social and sporting events including a festival on campus during the middle weekend.

What does the programme involve?

You’ll work with enquiry groups of around 20 students to research and investigate your dilemma of choice. At the end of the programme you will have the opportunity to present your findings which could range from preparing a report, video or public awareness campaign to performing a play or other visual medium. There will be a number of rewards and special recognition associated with each dilemma which will be judged by a panel of experts.  

Who’s it aimed at?

The programme is for all first year undergraduate students from all disciplines in Exeter and Cornwall.

How do I choose which dilemma to study?

You’ll be able to attend taster sessions in Week 6 where you’ll be able to hear from the academics who will be leading each of the dilemmas. They’ll tell you exactly what will be involved and what will be expected of you. You can attend as many or as few of these sessions as you wish, depending on where your interests lie.

All dilemmas are tailored around interdisciplinary research themes so you do not have to have a detailed knowledge of these beforehand.

If you are unable to attend a particular taster session that interests you, they will be available to view online.

I’m studying at the Cornwall Campus – will I also be able to take part?

Yes. There will be two dilemmas running in the Cornwall Campus and a third running between both Exeter and Cornwall.

How do I sign up?

You’ll sign up via My Career Zone following the taster sessions in Opportunities Week (week 6).  Select "Browse Events" and then select "Grand Challenges" in the list. You will then be able to book yourself onto the dilemma of your choice.

Do I have to attend?

Yes, all first year students are expected to attend the programme.

What are the benefits of taking part?

You’ll learn essential skills in team working across disciplines and will gain a knowledge and understanding of Exeter’s world leading research and the impact that this has in the world today. You’ll develop different approaches to study such as problem based learning, and put into practice some of the skills you have developed through the exFactor programme.

When is it and how long does it last?

The programme runs at the end of the summer term 2013 for 11 days with a campus festival over the middle weekend. The dates are 3rd -13th June 2013.