The successor to the lifelong learning programme (LLP), Erasmus+, will bring together various programmes under three Key Actions: learning mobility, cooperation for innovation and good practices, and support for policy reform.
What these changes mean for the people who have found value in the study visits, and how the advantages of the study visits can be integrated in Erasmus+, was the focus of Cedefop’s conference ‘Promoting change in education and training policy and practice – The value of peer learning’. The event involved visits organisers and participants, national agency representatives, social partners, members of the Lifelong Learning Committee and European Commission officials.
The core of the conference was 13 groups structured like ‘mini study visits’, with former organisers/participants detailing what had been of value to them in the programme and drawing suggestions for Erasmus+.
Opening the conference, Cedefop Acting Director Christian Lettmayr said: ‘Participation of civil society in the implementation of any policy change is of paramount importance. We should find an alternative way to retain the benefits of peer learning, which helps to build a European identity.’
Anna-Maria Giannopoulou of the European Commission said that Erasmus+ continues the study visits ‘in spirit and impact’. But because both EU and national contexts have changed – with greater ‘streamlining’ of education policies thanks to the open method of coordination – the new programme needs to focus on the systemic level, where the policy impact is expected to be stronger; and on the EU targets of Europe 2020.