Jordi Vivancos, head of the Knowledge and learning technologies unit at the Department of Education of Catalonia answers a few questions about the Policy visit organised within the framework of the p2V project:
[EUN] The Catalonian issue explained how necessary it is to create a culture of innovation and spread pedagogical innovation in schools in Catalonia. Can you explain this?
[Jordi]: Catalonia is currently facing a number of major challenges related to transformations in economic activities and changes in social structures. School is seen as a key player in responding to these changes. However, a number of studies indicate that performance of the Catalonian school system in terms of exam results is insufficient and there is considerable concern amongst the general public about the efficiency of schools. Methodological changes are needed if schools are to respond to these challenges. Such innovative changes include fostering collaborative working, developing flexibility and implementing ICT.
[EUN] Are policy visits, such as the one we had in Barcelona, a good way to develop the necessary policies to solve the Catalonian issue?
[Jordi] Yes, absolutly, the peer review process and policy developed during the seminar has enriched the issue defined previously and validated and confirmed the policy process we are developing at the moment. The contact with International, European experts has allowed us to have a first hand example of good practice already taking place in other European countries.
[EUN] What is going to happen next, how will the result of the P2V visit will be used to help policy making in Catalonia?
[Jordi] The outcome of the seminar will be translated in our language for discussion with policy makers in our department. The transversality and systemic approach developed during the seminar will allow for networking internally within the department of education and will be a blueprint for future policies in innovation and ICT implementation.