91998E2376

WRITTEN QUESTION E-2376/98

by Eryl McNally (PSE) to the Commission

(27 July 1998)

Subject: Language learning

Could the Commission tell me whether there are any current European initiatives in place which help adult citizens of Member States learn the language of other Member States?

If not, are there any intentions to do so, bearing in mind the importance of good communication between Member States?

Answer given by Mrs Cresson on behalf of the Commission

(7 September 1998)

The Lingua actions within the Socrates programme are horizontal measures designed to improve the quality and quantity of the teaching and learning of languages, addressing all levels and sectors of education. The language learning of adult citizens is therefore targeted by the Lingua actions. These actions are complementary to the measures enhancing language learning provided in the framework of the Leonardo Da Vinci programme.

Within the Socrates programme adult citizens are targeted as learners of foreign languages explicitly through Lingua action D which supports the development of language teaching and learning materials and curricula, and where priority is given to projects which promote self-learning tools and make pertinent use of open and distance learning approaches. Within the same action instruments for the assessment of linguistic competencies are developed which enable adult learners to evaluate their language skills.

Within the Leonardo Da Vinci programme the language learning needs of adults in the professional context are targeted through projects which develop didactic materials and training curricula.

The European project Lingu@net which receives funding under Socrates and Leonardo Da Vinci is developing a virtual resource centre which will provide information on language learning facilities for adult learners among others.