EGIS+ European level developments of flexible learning models within geographical information systems (GIS) for vocational training

This paper deals with experiences from a successful previous pilot project under the Leonardo da Vinci programme implemented during the time period 2002-2006. That project E-GIS www.e-gis.org, is the basis for eGIS+ in the Lifelong Learning Programme (LLP). Ten partners from six European countries; Bulgaria, Lithuania, The Netherlands, Norway, Sweden and Portugal participated in E-GIS. During the project period a study program, 100 % Internet based, corresponding to a one year full time study was implemented – resulting in eight course modules that were developed and tested out during the project. GIS – Geographical Information Systems – is a computer-based tool for handling and analysing digital map data to which are connected attribute data (spatially dependent phenomena), for statistical treatment – such as resource- and environmental planning, transport logistics, registration of archaeological findings etc. The main objectives of the E-GIS project was to establish a co-operation between European Universities and GIS user organisations and to develop modularised courses intended for Internet based learning. A heavy evaluation task was performed, based on digital questionnaires and interviews.
eGIS+ is a pilot project, within the Leonardo Program “Transfer of Innovation”. The objectives of the project are to develop results from the previous E-GIS project. The aim is targeting a broader range of GIS user groups, test out new Learning Management System (LMS) and different media development software, translate course material into partner languages, create a larger variety of duration of course modules (modules from just few minutes duration, without credits, up to 10 ECTS) and create flexibility to a larger extent. During the new eGIS+ eight countries are involved with totally 11 partners. The duration of the project is two years (2007-2009).