The research project “Learning 2.0 – the Impact of Web 2.0 Innovations on Education and Training in Europe” was launched by the Institute for Prospective Technological Studies (IPTS) in collaboration with the European Commission Directorate General Education and culture (DG EAC) at the beginning of 2008. The project aims to gather evidence on the take up of social computing by European Education and Training (E&T) institutions, to understand its impact on innovations in educational practice and its potential for a more inclusive European knowledge society, and to identify challenges and bottlenecks so as to devise policy options for Europe decision makers.

One of the conclusions of the project is the following: ‘…teachers play a pivotal role in facilitating innovation in E&T. They are the ones who will have to drive change, advocating innovative learning practices and mediating between learners and institutions. Not only will they have to improve and constantly update their own digital skills and those of their learners, but, at the same time, they will have to ensure an accessible, safe, accommodating and functioning learning environment. They will also have to develop their pedagogical skills to implement more collaborative and learner-centered learning strategies. Learning 2.0 will only be successful if teachers are actively supported in assuming this critical role.”

TACCLE and ‘Learning 2.0 – the Impact of Web 2.0 Innovations on Education and Training in Europe’ have therefore a lot in common as TACCLE actively supports teachers in assuming this critical role by training them to create e-learning materials and raising their awareness of e-learning in general.

To read the final report of the project follow this link: http://ftp.jrc.es/EURdoc/JRC55629.pdf.