Frequently asked questions about Map the System

 

Who is Map the System for ?

For bachelor’s, master’s, and Phd students enrolled at UNIL in the spring of 2025.

Do I have to participate alone or as part of a team ?

Both options are possible : you can compete alone or in a team of up to five people.  

Don’t have a team yet ? No problem ! During the launch workshop in mid-March, there will be a dedicated time for team formation.

Already have a team ? Great ! List your teammates in the registration form.

Is it possible to form a team with students from other faculties ?

Yes, and it’s even encouraged ! The diversity of academic backgrounds and perspectives will enrich your work.

If I register, am I guaranteed to be accepted ?

The only eligibility criteria is being enrolled as a student (bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD) in spring 2025 at one of the seven faculties of UNIL. However, only one team will go to Oxford.

Is there a maximum number of teams that can be accepted ?

Participation in the program: The HUB supports a maximum of 20 teams (from 1 to 5 people). If the number of applications exceeds this limit, teams will be selected on a first-come, first-served basis.

Presentation before the jury: Among the 20 selected teams, 6 to 8 will be chosen to present before the jury at UNIL.

What are the required deliverables ?

There are three :

  • A visual systems map: Illustrate the components and dynamics of the problem.
  • A written analysis: Summarize your findings and ideas in a maximum of 3,000 words.
  • A bibliography: Reference a diverse range of sources to support your research.
What are the evaluation criteria for the deliverables ?
  • Understanding of the problem: Demonstrate depth in identifying the causes, effects, and key actors. 
  • Applying systems thinking: using tools such as feedback loops and stakeholder mapping. 
  • Understanding existing solutions: Assess current interventions and their effectiveness.
  • Action levers: Highlight the areas where intervention can create change. 
  • Perspectives and reflections: Share personal learning and the lessons to be drawn from it.
In which language is the competition held ?

The competition at UNIL will be bilingual, English/French. The submissions can be in either of these two languages, as well as the presentation before the jury.

However, if your team wins the UNIL competition, your work will need to be translated into English if it is not already. The presentation at Oxford will also be in English.

What level of English is required to participate ?

To fully benefit from what Map The System offers, including the online learning modules, a B2/C1 level is recommended. It is not necessary to be bilingual; in fact, non-native English speakers have won the global competition in recent years !

I have a question that is not answered here, how can I contact you ?

Email us at hub@unil.ch. You can also fill out the contact form via this link.