Many higher education institutions organize summer bridge programs (SBPs) to prepare students for university. However, what a SBP should contain is unclear because few studies directly compare different theoretical approaches. This study evaluated two types of SBPs offered at a Dutch university: (A) …

Companies in the Brainport region are often characterized as high mix low volume (HMLV) production environments. These companies are distinguished by a wide range of possible products (high product variety), which are produced in low volumes. These are often customer-specific products that are produced …

This thesis focuses on the design and development of an emotion-evoking humanoid creature design for Morpheus Labs, to facilitate the creation of a horror VR experience in Unreal Engine 5. The project focuses on the client’s lack of knowledge about creating an effective and emotionally impactful design, …

Wood is an increasingly demanded renewable resource and an important raw material for construction and materials. Demands are rising, with a growing attention for re-use and upcycling, opening up opportunities for new business models, empowered by the use of digital design and technologies. A KPI framework …

This dissertation describes the dynamics of motor competence (MC) development from early childhood (EC) to middle childhood (MCD). Being motor competent in early childhood creates a window of opportunity for taking part in physical activities later in childhood and adulthood. However, there is a worrying …

Background: Although maternity care is linked to improved health outcomes, it is often insufficiently tailored to the needs of low socioeconomic position (SEP) majority population women in high-income countries, leading to obstacles in achieving good health. Cultural competence can contribute to access …

Bio-based and circular building materials and techniques can play an important role in the transition toward a more sustainable construction sector. This study focuses on the Northern Netherlands and explores those competencies (in terms of knowledge, skills, and attitude) required by construction workers …

Rural regions are facing specific challenges, such as demographic ones. For example, younger people often move towards more urban regions, which results in an older and dwindling population, which could lead to less facilities and broad prosperity. These challenges ask for specific sets of policies focused …

In the current context, university education is increasingly defined by the acquisition of skills. New mechanisms and types of learning are constantly emerging that aim to form skills defined as integrated acquisitions. Digital tools applied in the implementation of energy projects are not just essential …

Pregnancy and early parenthood mark a transformative period where women become caregivers and assume a new role with new responsibilities. While often portrayed positively, the transition to motherhood can be overwhelming. This is especially true for women living in adverse circumstances, presenting …