This paper is part of the UNESCO Working Paper Series on Mobile Learning. The Series seeks to better understand how mobile technologies can be used to improve educational access, equity and quality around the world. It comprises fourteen individual papers that will be published throughout 2012.
The Series is divided into two broad subsets: six papers examine mobile learning initiatives and their policy implications, and six papers examine how mobile technologies can support teachers and improve their practice.
This paper identifies strategies, initiatives and projects for mobile learning in formal education in Europe. Data collection has mainly been done through research inquiry. A questionnaire sent out to thirty Ministries of Education resulted in only two responses, probably reflecting the low priority given to mobile learning at the policy level in Europe today.
Many research and development (R&D) projects regarding the use of mobile technology in education have been carried out in Europe. There has also been a growing recent interest in experimenting with tablets and similar devices in schools, with pilot projects typically conducted on a small scale and driven by enthusiastic teachers. However, the practice of using mobile phones for education is still emergent, and the concept of mobile learning, with few exceptions, has not yet reached the policy level.
The European Commission, which is the executive body of the European Union and is responsible for proposing legislation, implementing decisions, and running the general day-to- day affairs of the EU, has funded a number of successful R&D projects focused on mobile learning. Over the years those projects have gradually evolved from developing hardware and software, a primarily technology-driven process, to a learner-centred approach in which mobile technologies play a part, alongside more fixed technologies, in supporting learning at any time and in any place.
To access existing and forthcoming titles in the Series, please see:
http://www.unesco.org/new/en/unesco/themes/icts/m4ed/mobile-learning-resources/unescomobilelearningseries/