The European Union requires its member countries to follow a number of common European policies in various aspects of life. One of them is education, within which countries have already introduced or are in the course of introducing measures that aim at improving the quality of educational services at different levels across the entire UE. An example of such a programme is the so-called Bologna Process. The following webquest will give you an opportunity to explore the idea of the project, and reflect on how it might influence you and other learners in the UK, Poland or other EU member countries.

 

 

TASK 1

 

Visit the websites below and find out:

 

1. What is the Bologna Process?
2. When was it launched?
3. When is it scheduled to end?
4. What are the main goals of the process?

 

 

• The Council of Europe website – a comprehensive source of information

• ACE website – a Latvian site with information in brief 

 

 

TASK 2

 

Now that you know what the Bologna Process is about, see how it is being implemented in the UK and Poland. Go to Ace Bologna Process Reports website and try to focus on the following (optionally, use the Polish Ministry of Education official website for Poland):

 

 

1. In what forms is the process being implemented in both countries?
2. Which specific areas of education are being tackled?

 

 

Fill in the table with your answers:

 

	POLAND	UK
FORMS
AREAS

 

 

TASK 3

 

 

i) As every idea, the Bologna Process has its advantages and disadvantages. Explore the ESIB website (to view the document you need Acrobat Reader - download here) and find out:

 

1. What is the ESIB?
2. How do students view the pros and cons of the Bologna Process?

 

 

ii) Now, go to Material/Edge and learn why some UK university staff approach the Bologna Process with reservations.

 

 

iii) Now, try to reflect on what you have found out so far and answer the questions below:

 

1. How do you personally feel about the Bologna process?
2. According to you, how can it benefit Polish students?
3. What possible dangers, if any, can you see for Polish students?
4. Do you agree with the opinions of European students?

 

 

TASK 4

 

Ask your colleagues what they would add or change to the Bologna Process to make it even more effective. On the basis of the responses you’ll get, write a brief proposal for the changes suggested.