Introduction
The objectives of international projects as an integral part of lifelong learning
programmes can be found at two levels. At school level international projects lean
towards improving and increasing the mobility of pupils/students and educational staff
throughout Europe. They encourage and improve language learning and literacy
strategies, reinforce creativity and innovation in ICT, and make subjects that are
otherwise difficult or boring, more attractive. They introduce new and better teaching
techniques and practices for teachers to try, thereby improving pedagogical
approaches and school management. Most importantly, they enhance quality and the
European dimension in schools, giving even those learners, who are socially or
economically excluded, the opportunity to become part of a larger body and thereby
gain some confidence and self-worth (Cmepius 2008:5-7).
At a higher level, as reflected in the issues central to policy development at European
level in education and training in THE GENERAL AND SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES OF
THE LIFELONG LEARNING PROGRAMME, (2006), they promote high performance,
innovation and a European dimension in systems and practices; help improve the
quality, attractiveness and accessibility of the opportunities for lifelong learning and
reinforce active citizenship, intercultural dialogue, gender equality and personal
fulfilment. They help promote creativity, competitiveness, employability and the growth
of an entrepreneurial spirit, as well as contribute to increased participation in lifelong
learning by people of all ages, including those with special needs and disadvantaged
groups, regardless of their socio-economic background. The strength of international
projects is evident in their promotion of language learning and linguistic diversity in
creating a sense of European citizenship based on understanding and respect for
human rights and democracy, and encouraging tolerance and respect for other
peoples and cul tures. By exchanging good practice in the fields covered by the Lifelong
Learning Programmes, and making the best use of project results, innovative products
and processess, they help to improve the quality of education everywhere. Finally, they
aim to foster interchange, cooperation and mobility between education and training
systems within the European Union hopefully in the longrun becoming a world quality
reference.
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