Case Study: Maastricht University improves lab maths skills with SURF’s OLaF online feedback tool

Instant feedback during online practice of lab maths skills

Maastricht University identified a challenge where its biomedical, health science, and medicine students lacked the fundamental lab maths skills required for their practicals. This knowledge gap consumed valuable teaching time, as instructors had to answer basic calculation questions instead of focusing on the core subject matter. To address this, the university partnered with SURF and developed OLaF, an online tool for practicing lab calculus with instant feedback.

Developed with support from SURF's Open and Online Education Incentive Scheme, the OLaF solution provided immediate, automated feedback on student calculations, allowing them to quickly understand and correct their mistakes. The results were significant: 85% of students felt it helped them learn, and instructors reported saving valuable teaching time. The tool’s success led to higher test grades and generated interest from other institutions, demonstrating the wide applicability of the concept pioneered by SURF.

Maastricht University

Herman Popeijus

Associate Professor and Testing