1. Physical mobility versus virtual mobility
Dear Friend,
Let us introduce you a new form of mobility: "virtual mobility". This unit shows you the characteristics, different types and conditions required for this form of mobility.
At the end of this unit, you will be able to:
- distinguish the different types of mobility;
- define virtual mobility;
- list the advantages of virtual mobility;
- identify conditions favouring virtual mobility.
You will need 30 minutes minutes to complete the present unit.
1. Two types of mobility: physical mobility and virtual mobility
Physical and virtual mobility
The two types of mobility are:
- Physical mobility (also called "real" mobility): this refers to learners who will physically go to another institution, either within or outside of their own country, to study there for a limited period of time.
- Virtual mobility: is characterised by an absence of physical mobility. In this case, learners take a course at a foreign institution without being there phisically. This form of mobility is enabled using information and communication technologies, such as, for example, video conferencing or virtual learning environments and platforms.
Unfortunately current mobility of learners, despite a number of initiatives, remains marginal in Europe. Virtual mobility could increase the number of learners and especially those who do not have the opportunity to be physically mobile.
2. Different forms of virtual mobility
Virtual mobility forms:
- All the placement is carried out virtually: learners take all of their training in a remote institution using virtual contacts.
- Only a part of the placement is done virtually: the virtual elements are integrated into the physical placement programs for preparation and return phases (selection of learners, language training, on-line evaluation).
- Virtual work placements are organised in remote companies.
- Lecturers are invited to give classes to students virtually from remote institutions.
3. Advantages of virtual mobility
As with physical placements, virtual mobility can also offer a number of linguistic, cultural and professional advantages to students, as well as personal developments.
Activity 1 - Advantages of virtual mobility
What advantages can participants draw from virtual mobility? Consider the linguistic, cultural, educational, professional and personal aspects.
4. Prerequisits of virtual mobility
Although there are advantages of virtual mobility, but there are also some conditions as well:
- Public policy promotion to inform targeted communities;
- Financial resources for testing and introducing new technologies;
- A professional background to create on-line material;
- Specific skills to be able to use new technologies;
- Implementation of a certification system for mutual recognition of learners' achievements.
Dear Friend,
You have completed the unit.
In the following unit, you will explore the world of virtual mobility.
