Bolognaferlið

Bolognaferlið, a term derived from Icelandic, translates to "Bologna process" in English. It refers to the Bologna Process, a series of intergovernmental meetings and agreements between European countries aimed at harmonizing European higher education. Launched in 1999, the process seeks to create a more comparable, compatible, and coherent system of higher education across the continent.

The core objectives of the Bologna Process include establishing a system of easily readable and understandable degrees, adopting a system based on two main cycles (undergraduate and graduate), and promoting the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS). ECTS facilitates the recognition of studies and qualifications across different countries. Another key aim is the promotion of lifelong learning, mobility of students and staff, and European cooperation in quality assurance.

The Bologna Process has led to significant reforms in university structures, curricula, and degree nomenclature in participating countries. While widely adopted, it has also faced criticism regarding its impact on academic freedom, the perceived Americanization of higher education, and potential for increased tuition fees. Despite these debates, the process continues to be a major driver of European higher education policy and cooperation.