Exploring key components for higher education interoperability
Experts in higher education interoperability make new steps towards co-creating a European Higher Education Interoperability Framework. The framework aims to foster a seamless digital teaching and learning experience and bring European campuses to life.
On 26 June, some 65 members of the higher education interoperability workgroup, including experts and representatives from 24 European University alliances, gathered for a workshop organised by the European Digital Education Hub (EDEH).
The participants explored key components for
- interoperable virtual learning campuses
- flexible learning paths
- seamless mobility within and between alliances
Their work on the European Higher Education Interoperability Framework aims to fulfil the shared vision presented in the Higher Education Interoperability Manifesto [pdf]
Get a one-page visual overview of the manifesto
Aims of workshop
- review the analysis of existing solutions and the extent to which they meet the requirements of the current use cases for interoperability
- prioritise use cases and topics to address to help European University alliances' work
- co-create the framework to ensure that it meets the needs of European University alliances and to provides a solid basis for further work
- discuss expectations and ideas on how guidelines might be produced
Highlights and insights
The participants highlighted the need for
- common terminology
- standards
- a clear, concise narrative
to make the virtual higher education campuses interoperable.
To ensure seamless learner journey and data exchange among institutions, the framework for higher education interoperability needs to be practical. Ways of making this happen could be compiling an implementation toolkit and a prescriptive solution architecture blueprint on which to base development and implementation decisions.
Participants agreed that it would be good to have a platform for sharing good practices and discussion between higher education institutions and alliances.
Feedback from the workshop will support the framework that will be published in February 2025.
Join the workgroup
Since its start in 2024, the workgroup has grown to more than 130 members of very diverse backgrounds. This diversity is a key ingredient in achieving the group's mission.
Do you have a relevant skill set? You could also contribute to building a practical toolkit to ensure interoperable virtual learning environments.
Read more about the higher education interoperability workgroup