The Seventh Framework Programme (FP7) brings together, under one roof, all research-related EU initiatives playing a crucial role in reaching the goals of growth, competitiveness and employment. In Luxembourg, members of the European Commission recently outlined opportunities for TEL-related research, as part of the FP7 Challenge, “Digital Libraries and Content”.  In Call 1, there are two lines of action currently open. 

These lines of action were discussed in presentations at the Open Day, and are described in detail in the current work plan, which was developed, in part, with input from Kaleidoscope members. 

Research objectives for FP7 Call 1 (http://cordis.europa.eu/fp7/understand_en.html )  include:

1.    Responsive environments for technology-enhanced learning, which:
•    accommodate specific learning needs and contexts (mass individualisation)
•    are capable of transforming learning outcomes into knowledge assets
•    enhance competence, skills and performance of the learner
•    are pedagogically sound

2.    Adaptive and intuitive learning systems, able to:
•    identify learner’s requirements from intelligently monitoring progress
•    exploit learning and cognitive abilities of the learner
•    give meaningful advice to both learners and teachers

It was clear from the day’s presentations that while the work plan (http://cordis.europa.eu/fp7/understand_en.html ) describes in detail what the Commission is expecting to see reflected in proposals, how such developments are achieved will be very much up to the consortia submitting. It is also important to note that there are some changes in respect to proposals made under FP7 as compared with FP6. One of these involves the streamlining of evaluation, which will now focus on three criteria: scientific and technical quality, implementation and impact.

Those considering submitting proposals were invited to check their ideas with Commission staff in order to assess their relevance. Approximately 50M€ is available for the Technology Enhanced Learning and the Digital Libraries action lines under Call 1 and a variety of funding schemes (called “instruments” in Framework 6) are available: Individual Projects (IPs), Networks of Excellence (NoEs), Small or medium-scale focused research actions (STREPs) and Coordination and Support Actions (CSAs)

Deadline for Call 1: 8 May
For more information: http://cordis.europa.eu/ist/telearn

If you are looking for project partners for FP7, look here .