Minerva spreads the word on ICT for open and long-distance learning
Those interested in the development of open and distance learning (ODL) - particularly through the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) - can now find a new presentation of the Minerva action of the European Commission's Socrates programme on the Web. Minerva is a Commission-funded action which supports a variety of projects in the ODL and ICT fields. These may aim to develop educational resources and methods on the basis of innovative experiments, the preparation of studies or comparative analyses of particular aspects of ODL, or the use of new educational technologies in Europe. Minerva's main objectives are: - to promote understanding among teachers, learners, decision-makers and the public at large of the implications of ODL and ICT for education, as well as the critical and responsible use of ICT for educational purposes; - to ensure that pedagogical considerations are given proper weight in the development of ICT and multimedia-based educational products and services; - to promote access to improved methods and educational resources as well as to results and best practices in this field. The re-vamped website includes detail of the types of activities most likely to receive funding under the Minerva action as well as links to related reports and publications.