Scheduling of Academic Resources in Higher Education Institutions: Case Study at the University of Brasília
Systematic literature review; Course timetabling; Model proposal
The university course timetabling problem is considered one of the most complex challenges faced by higher education institutions. Its combinatorial nature involves multiple constraints and methodological preferences, which tend to vary based on the specific needs of the institution. Therefore, it is very difficult for a single approach to efficiently generate class schedules across different scenarios without the necessity for substantial adaptations. In view of this context and considering the variety of solutions employed, the present work sets out to conduct a systematic literature review with the objective of identifying the strategies frequently used to address this issue. This investigation facilitated the gathering of information concerning the approaches, constraints, and preferences implemented in various academic contexts. Based on this research, a proposal is made for a model that is intended to be flexible and adaptable to the particularities of higher education institutions, thus supporting a more encompassing approach to this problem, which is often addressed in a specific manner. As a continuation of this research, there are plans to carry out tests within the University of Brasília (UnB), with the aspiration to assess the proposed model.