Network to SupportTrainers in Europe

Simone KirpalInstitute Technology and Education (ITB),University of Bremen, Germany

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Background 1

Goals of the Maastricht Communiqué (2004) Identify the specific learning needs and changing

role of trainers in VET Identify possibilities to making the training

profession more attractive Support the continuing up-dating of skills,

knowledge and competences of trainers Enhance the support structures for VET trainers

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Background 2

Recent European studies on trainers indicate that The area of VET trainers is underresearched, lacking data and

information to plan and provide adequate support for trainers The profession of VET trainers lacks recognition and

incentives in most European countries The continuing learning of trainers is underdeveloped Trainers‘ competence profiles need to include a broader range

of pedagogical, social and management competences Trainers in SMEs are particularly disadvantaged The training methods that trainers apply require innovation The continuing professional development of trainers needs

to be strengthened if trainers are to assume a stragetic role in knowledge-based economies

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Network‘s general objectives

Develop a European perspective on the situation and future professional development of VET trainers

Generate and share information: compile and synthesise, but also generate data, information and materials on the situation, work and qualification needs of trainers in Europe

Facilitate mutual exchange, learning and communication among experts and practitioners

Foster the political dialogue to identify strategies for improving the situation and qualification of trainers

Innovation: pilot innovative e-features for knowledge sharing and distribution in the area of trainers

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Network‘s concrete objectives

Generate data and information on the situation of trainers Provide an overview of materials and activities in the field

of VET trainers across Europe and at national/regional level

Inform European training policy by linking different initiatives and studies at the European level

Enhance the visibility of issues evolving around VET trainers

Develop a plan of action for programmes and policy priorities in the area

Improve the cooperation in the field of trainers between institutions and organisations including enterprises, social partners and other relevant bodies throughout Europe

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Network activities1. Network/platform to create linkages, synergy

effects and mutual benefits of the different European, national and regional initiatives so far implemented in the area of VET trainers. It will include: materials, tools, outcomes, resources and contacts.

2. Forum for mutual exchange emphasising the exchange of knowledge and experiences, good practices, tools and innovation in the area of VET trainers by fostering a ‘bottom-up approach’ which involves practitioners and multipliers at regional, sectoral and company level

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Network activities

3. Two international e-conferences each one addressing a particular topic. The rationale for the e-conferences is outreach, inclusion and innovation.

4. Carry out two joint network activities: one to generate more data and information and one on programming and policy

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1st E-conference:5-6 November 2008

TRAINIG OF TRAINERS – a European conference

Day 1:Theme 1: The changing role of trainers in learning Theme 2: E-learning for trainers

Day 2Theme 1: Work-based learningTheme 2: Support for the professional development of trainers

Exhibition MarketplaceTargeted at trainers and practitioners featuring a multi-lingual

exhibition area exemplifying national and international good practice examples with audio-visual support in national languages and also an English abstract. The exhibition area will be moderated and also provide a discussion forum.