Legislative resolution embodying Parliament's opinion on the proposal for a European Parliament and Council Decision establishing the second phase of the Community action programme in the field of education 'Socrates' (COM(98)0329 C4-0510/98 98/0195(COD))(Codecision procedure: first reading)
Date: 1998-11-05
Institutions: Committee on Culture and Education, European Parliament
Subjects: Central and Eastern European countries, Cyprus, EFTA countries, EU action, European citizenship, continuing education, integration into employment, mechanisation of agriculture, student mobility, young person













EUR-Lex - 51998AP0371 - EN






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51998AP0371

Legislative resolution embodying Parliament's opinion on the proposal for a European Parliament and Council Decision establishing the second phase of the Community action programme in the field of education 'Socrates' (COM(98)0329 C4-0510/98 98/0195(COD))(Codecision procedure: first reading)  


Official Journal C 359 , 23/11/1998 P. 0060 





A4-0371/98Proposal for a European Parliament and Council Decision establishing the second phase of the Community action programme in the field of education - 'Socrates' (COM(98)0329 - C4-0510/98 - 98/0195(COD))The proposal was approved with the following amendments:(Amendment 1)Recital 4>Original text>(4) Whereas the Commission in its communication 'Towards a Europe of Knowledge' set out guidelines on the gradual creation of an open and dynamic European education area capable of achieving the objective of lifelong education and training, defining six types of measures to be developed at Community level, focusing on transnational cooperation and designed to bring added value to the action taken by the Member States, in full respect of the principle of subsidiarity, and in a context of simplified procedures;>Text following EP vote>(4)Whereas the Commission in the communication 'Towards a Europe of Knowledge' and the European Parliament in its resolution' of 13 May 1998 on that communication(1) set out guidelines on the gradual creation of an open and dynamic European education area capable of achieving the objective of lifelong education and training, defining six types of measures to be developed at Community level, focusing on transnational cooperation and designed to bring added value to the action taken by the Member States, in full respect of the principle of subsidiarity, and in a context of simplified procedures;_________(1) OJ C 167, 1.6.1998, p. 136(Amendment 2)Recital 5>Original text>(5) Whereas the White Paper Teaching and learning - Towards the learning society states that the emergence of the learning society entails encouraging the acquisition of new knowledge and to this end providing motivation to learn at every opportunity; and whereas the Green Paper education, training, research: the obstacles to transnational mobility highlighted the advantages mobility brings to people and competitiveness in the Union;>Text following EP vote>(5)Whereas the White Paper Teaching and learning - Towards the learning society states that the emergence of the learning society entails encouraging the acquisition of new knowledge and to this end providing motivation to learn at every opportunity; and whereas the Green Paper education, training, research: the obstacles to transnational mobility highlighted the advantages mobility brings to people and competitiveness in the Union; whereas the objective should be to attain a participation rate of at least 10% of the target groups at whom the programme is aimed;.(Amendment 3)Recital 8>Original text>(8) Whereas it is necessary, in order to reinforce the value added of Community action to ensure, at all levels, a coherence and a complementarity between the actions implemented in the framework of the present decision and the Community interventions, in particular in the domains of culture, audiovisual, the completion of the single market, the environment, consumer protection, the information society, SMEs, social policies, employment and public health;>Text following EP vote>(8)Whereas it is necessary, in order to reinforce the value added of Community action, that the Commission, in conjunction with the Member States, should ensure a coherence and a complementarity at all levels between the actions implemented in the framework of the present decision and the Community interventions, in particular in the domains of culture, research, audiovisual, the completion of the single market, the environment, consumer protection, the information society, SMEs, social policies, employment and public health;(Amendment 4)Recital 8a (new)>Original text>>Text following EP vote>(8a) Whereas it is necessary to provide for the possibility of organising joint activities involving the Socrates programme and other Community programmes or actions that have an educational dimension, including those related to international cooperation, thus encouraging synergies and reinforcing the value added of Community action on either side;(Amendment 5)Recital 11>Original text>(11) Whereas this programme should be monitored and continuously evaluated in cooperation between the Commission and the Member States in order to allow for readjustments, particularly in the priorities for implementing the measures;>Text following EP vote>(11)Whereas this programme should be monitored and continuously evaluated in cooperation between the Commission and the Member States in order to allow for readjustments, particularly in the priorities for implementing the measures; whereas the evaluation should include an external evaluation to be conducted by independent and impartial bodies;(Amendment 6)Recital 12a (new)>Original text>>Text following EP vote>(12a) Whereas an improvement in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) is essential to ensure that mobility fully attains its objectives; whereas universities participating in the programme should be called upon to ensure the most comprehensive use possible of the ECTS;(Amendment 7)Article 2(1)>Original text>1. In order to contribute to the development of quality education, while fully respecting the responsibility of the Member States, the aims of the programme shall be:>Text following EP vote>1.In order to contribute to the development of quality education and encourage lifelong learning, while fully respecting the responsibility of the Member States, the aims of the programme shall be:>Original text>(a) to strengthen the European dimension in education at all levels, in particular by granting wider access to European educational resources and through the teaching and dissemination of languages, while promoting a better gender balance throughout all fields of education;>Text following EP vote>(a)to strengthen the European dimension in education at all levels by encouraging in particular the acquisition of language skills (by learning two other Community languages, one of which should be of a neighbouring country) and knowledge of other cultures, while ensuring a balanced participation of men and women throughout all fields of education;>Original text>(b) to promote cooperation in the field of education, in particular by encouraging exchanges between educational institutions and by promoting open and distance education;>Text following EP vote>(b)to promote cooperation in the field of education and remove obstacles to such cooperation, in particular by encouraging- mobility among teachers and students,- cooperation between educational institutions,- improvements in the recognition of diplomas and periods of study,- improvements in the exchange of information;>Original text>(c) to help remove the obstacles to such cooperation, in particular by encouraging improvements in the recognition of diplomas and periods of study, and by developing the exchange of information;>Text following EP vote>>Original text>(d) to encourage innovation, in particular where such innovation is associated with new technologies>Text following EP vote>(d)to encourage innovation in particular where such innovation is associated with new technologies and the learning of languages.(Amendment 8)Article 2(2)>Original text>2. In implementing these objectives, the Commission and the Member States shall ensure that action under the programme is consistent with the Community's other actions and policies, particularly with regard to employment, to the removal of inequalities, to equal opportunities for women and men, and to social policy.>Text following EP vote>2.In implementing these objectives, the Commission and the Member States shall ensure that action under the programme is consistent with the Community's other actions and policies, particularly with regard to employment, to the removal of inequalities, to equal opportunities for women and men, and in particular, incorporating the notion of mainstreaming in all actions with the help of positive actions, and to social policy.(Amendment 9)Article 3(1)>Original text>1. The aims of this programme shall be pursued through the following actions, the operational content and the application procedures of which are described in the Annex:>Text following EP vote>1.The aims of this programme shall be pursued through the following five actions and horizontal measures, the operational content and the application procedures of which are described in the Annex:>Original text>(a) school education (Comenius);(b) higher education (Erasmus);(c) other educational pathways (Grundtvig);(d) teaching and learning of languages (Lingua);(e) education and multimedia (Atlas);(f) observation and innovation;(g) joint actions;(h) accompanying measures.>Text following EP vote>1. school education (Comenius);2. higher education (Erasmus);3. other educational pathways (Grundtvig);4. teaching and learning of languages (Lingua);5. education and multimedia (Minerva);6. horizontal measures;(Amendment 10)Article 4(1) and (2)>Original text>1. Under the conditions and in accordance with the definitions and arrangements for implementation specified in the Annex, this programme is aimed in particular at:>Text following EP vote>1.Under the conditions and in accordance with the definitions and arrangements for implementation specified in the Annex, this programme is aimed at:>Original text>(a) all pupils, students or other learners;>Text following EP vote>(a)all pupils, students or other learners;>Original text>(b) all categories of staff involved in education;>Text following EP vote>(b)all categories of staff involved in education;>Original text>(c) all types of educational institutions;>Text following EP vote>(c)all types of educational institutions;>Original text>(d) the people and bodies responsible for education systems and policies at local, regional and national level within the Member States.>Text following EP vote>(d)the people and bodies responsible for education systems and policies at local, regional and national level within the Member States.>Original text>2. Public or private bodies cooperating with educational institutions may also take part or be actively involved in several actions under this programme, in particular:>Text following EP vote>>Original text>(a) local and regional bodies and organisations;>Text following EP vote>(da) local and regional bodies and organisations;>Original text>(b) associations working in the field of education, including parents' associations;>Text following EP vote>(db) associations working in the field of education, including parents', teachers' and students' associations;>Original text>(c) companies and consortia, trade organisations and Chambers of Commerce and Industry;>Text following EP vote>(dc) companies and consortia, trade organisations and Chambers of Commerce and Industry;>Original text>(d) organisations of both sides of industry at all levels;>Text following EP vote>(dd) organisations of both sides of industry at all levels;>Original text>(e) research centres and bodies.>Text following EP vote>(de) research centres and bodies.(Amendment 11)Article 5(3), 1st subparagraph>Original text>3. The Member States shall take appropriate action to secure, nationally, the coordination, organisation and the follow-up needed for the attainment of the objectives of this programme, involving all the parties concerned by education in accordance with national practice.>Text following EP vote>3.The Member States shall take appropriate action to secure, nationally, the coordination, organisation and the follow-up needed in terms of the monitoring and evaluation needed for the attainment of the objectives of this programme. They shall involve all the parties concerned by education and take steps to ensure that potential synergies with other Community programmes are fully realised.(Amendment 12)Article 5(4)>Original text>4. Each Member State shall endeavour to take the necessary steps to ensure the efficient running of this programme and to take appropriate measures to remove any obstacles to access to it.>Text following EP vote>4.Each Member State is called upon to take the necessary steps to ensure the efficient running of this programme and to take appropriate measures to remove any obstacles to access to it, including, in particular, directly or indirectly discriminatory obstacles to mobility in the fields of social security and health care.(Amendment 13)Article 6>Original text>As part of the process of building up a Europe of knowledge, the measures of this programme may be implemented as joint actions with other Community actions forming part of the knowledge policy, particularly Community programmes in the areas of vocational training and youth-related matters.>Text following EP vote>As part of the process of building up a Europe of knowledge, the measures of this programme may be implemented as joint actions with other Community actions forming part of the knowledge policy, particularly Community programmes in the areas of vocational training, youth-related matters and research and new technologies.Such joint actions are to be strongly encouraged.(Amendment 14)Article 7(4)>Original text>4. The committee shall deliver its opinion on the draft within a time-limit which the Chairman may lay down according to the urgency of the matter. The opinion shall be delivered by the majority laid down in Article 148(2) of the Treaty in the case of decisions which the Council is required to adopt on a proposal from the Commission. The votes of the representatives of the Member States within the Committee shall be weighted in the manner set out in that Article. The Chairman shall not vote.>Text following EP vote>4.The committee shall deliver its opinion on the draft within a time-limit which the Chairman may lay down according to the urgency of the matter. The opinion shall be delivered by the majority laid down in Article 148(2) of the Treaty in the case of decisions which the Council is required to adopt on a proposal from the Commission. The votes of the representatives of the Member States within the Committee shall be weighted in the manner set out in that Article. The representatives of the non-EU States participating in the programme shall take part in the meetings of the committee, and shall have an advisory vote. The Chairman shall not vote.(Amendment 15)Article 7(5), 1st subparagraph>Original text>5. The Commission shall adopt measures which shall apply immediately. However, if these measures are not in accordance with the opinion of the committee, they shall be communicated by the Commission to the Council forthwith.>Text following EP vote>5.The Commission shall adopt measures which shall apply immediately. However, if these measures are not in accordance with the opinion of the committee, they shall be communicated by the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament forthwith.(Amendment 16)Article 7(6), 3rd subparagraph>Original text>The opinion shall be recorded in the minutes; in addition, each Member State shall have the right to ask to have its position recorded in the minutes.>Text following EP vote>The opinion shall be recorded in the minutes; in addition, each Stateparticipating in the programme shall have the right to ask to have its position recorded in the minutes.(Amendment 17)Article 8>Original text>1. The financial resources for the implementation of this programme for the period specified in Article 1 shall be set at ECU 1400 million.>Text following EP vote>1.The financial resources for the operational implementation of this programme for the period specified in Article 1 shall be set at ECU 2000 million.>Original text>>Text following EP vote>1a. That amount may possibly be reviewed in a proportion not exceeding 20% of the amount as part of annual budgetary conciliation.>Original text>2. The annual appropriations shall be authorised by the budgetary authority within the limits of the financial perspectives.>Text following EP vote>2.The annual appropriations, including those intended for technical assistance, shall be authorised by the budgetary authority within the limits of the financial perspectives and as part of the annual budgetary procedure.(Amendment 18)Article 9(1), 1st subparagraph>Original text>1. The Commission shall, in conjunction with the Member States, ensure overall consistency with other Community policies and actions. There shall be coordination between the activities of this programme and the other Community actions, in particular those covered by the knowledge policy.>Text following EP vote>1.The Commission shall, in cooperation with the Member States, ensure overall consistency and coordination between the activities of this programme and other Community policies and actions, with national and local initiatives and shall encourage the development of synergies.. Coordination shall be ensured between the activities of this programme and the other Community actions, in particular those covered by the knowledge policy. Cooperation shall be encouraged with the Community agencies.(Amendment 19)Article 9(1), 2nd subparagraph>Original text>The Commission shall, in conjunction with the Member States, ensure consistency between implementation of this programme and the other Community actions relating to education in the area of culture and the audiovisual sector, the completion of the internal market, the information society, environment, consumer protection. SMEs, social policies, employment and public health.>Text following EP vote>Deleted(Amendment 20)Article 9(2)>Original text>2. The Commission and the Member States shall ensure that the measures of this programme are, as part of the implementation of the coordinated employment strategy, consistent with the orientations established annually for the employment guidelines and in conjunction with the other actions contributing to the implementation of the action plans.>Text following EP vote>2.The Commission and the Member States shall ensure that the measures of this programme are, as part of the implementation of the coordinated employment strategy, consistent with the orientations established for the employment guidelines and in conjunction with other actions contributing to the implementation of the action plans.(Amendment 21)Article 9(3)>Original text>3. The Commission and the Member States shall ensure consistency and complementarity between action undertaken under this programme and Community action under the Structural Funds.>Text following EP vote>3.The Commission and the Member States shall ensure consistency and complementarity between action undertaken under this programme and Community action under the Structural Funds. They shall in particular facilitate the transfer and dissemination on a wider scale, through the Community Structural Funds, of innovatory approaches and methods developed under this programme in accordance with appropriate procedures.(Amendment 22)Article 10, title and (1)>Original text>Participation of the associated Central and Eastern European countries, Cyprus, Turkey and Malta>Text following EP vote>Participation of the associated Central and Eastern European countries,the EFTA countries that are part of the EEA, EEA, Cyprus, Turkey and Malta>Original text>1. This programme shall be open to the participation of the associated Central and East European countries (CEEC) in accordance with the conditions laid down in the Europe agreements or in existing or anticipated additional protocols governing the participation of these countries in Community programmes. This programme shall also be open to the participation, funded by additional appropriations, of Cyprus under the same rules as those applied to the countries of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) which belong to the European Economic Area (EEA) according to the procedures to be agreed with this country. This programme shall also be open to participation by Turkey according to the procedures to be established with that country.>Text following EP vote>1.This programme shall be open to the participation of the associated Central and East European countries (CEEC) in accordance with the conditions laid down in the Europe agreements or in existing or anticipated additional protocols governing the participation of these countries in Community programmes. This programme shall be open to the participation of the countries of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) that are part of the European Economic Area (EEA). This programme shall also be open to the participation, funded by additional appropriations, of Cyprus under the same rules as those applied to the countries of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) which belong to the European Economic Area (EEA) according to the procedures to be agreed with this country. This programme shall also be open to participation by Turkey according to the procedures to be established with that country.(Amendment 23)Article 11>Original text>The Commission shall strengthen its cooperation with non-Community countries and with the relevant international organisations, particularly the Council of Europe.>Text following EP vote>The Commission shall strengthen its cooperation with non-Community countries and with the relevant international organisations, particularly the Council of Europe.This action shall be taken within the framework of the programme. The planning and funding of the action shall be approved by the committee in accordance with Article 7.(Amendment 24)Article 12(3)>Original text>3. Member States shall submit to the Commission by 31 December 2002 and 30 June 2005 respectively reports on the implementation and the impact of this programme.>Text following EP vote>3.Member States shall submit to the Commission and to the European Parliament by 31 December 2002 and 30 June 2005 respectively reports on the implementation and the impact of this programme. These reports shall include information on how national education systems contribute to the development of a European educational space and shall clearly identify actions where synergies have been found with other Community policies. Specific mention shall be made of the measures taken to combat all forms of discrimination and to promote equality of opportunity between men and women, and their impact in terms of participation in the programme.(Amendment 25)Article 12(4), 1st indent>Original text>- an interim evaluation report on the implementation of this programme no later than 30 June 2003;>Text following EP vote>-an interim evaluation report on the qualitative and quantitative aspects of the implementation of this programme no later than 30 June 2003;(Amendment 26)Annex (I)(1)>Original text>1. The actions proposed in this Annex contribute to the achievement of the objectives laid down in Article 2 of the Decision and implemented through the Community measures provided for in Article 3.>Text following EP vote>1.The actions outlined below contribute to the achievement of the objectives laid down in Article 2 of the Decision and implemented through the Community measures provided for in Article 3.(Amendment 27)Annex (I)(6a)(new)>Original text>>Text following EP vote>6a. Special attention must be devoted to dissemination of the results of the programme.(Amendment 28)Annex (II), introduction>Original text>This Annex contains two main types of actions:>Text following EP vote>This Annex containsthree main types of actions:>Original text>- the first, Actions 1 to 3, are aimed at the three basic stages of lifelong education (school, university, others);>Text following EP vote>-the first, Actions 1 to 3, are aimed at the three basic stages of lifelong education (school, university, others);>Original text>- the second, Actions 4 to 8, concern transversal measures such as languages, multimedia and the exchange of information, as well as matters of horizontal interest such as innovation, the dissemination of results, joint actions.>Text following EP vote>-the second, Actions 4 and 5, concern transversal measures such as languages and multimedia;- horizontal measures, such as the exchange of information, the dissemination of results and joint actions.(Amendment 29)Annex (II) Action 1, 1st paragraph>Original text>Comenius seeks to reinforce the European dimension of school education, to encourage transnational cooperation and to promote the learning of languages.>Text following EP vote>Comenius seeks to reinforce the European dimension of school education, to encourage transnational cooperation, to promote the learning of languages and to support cultural diversity.(Amendment 30)Annex (II), Action 1.1(2) and (3) (a) and (b)>Original text>2. Schools taking part in one or more of the activities contained in this Action shall submit a 'Plan for inter-school cooperation in Europe' covering all the activities proposed. The plans shall be examined by the national structures set up in accordance with Article 5, paragraph 3 of the Decision, involving, with due respect for national systems, the supervisory bodies at regional and local level, on the basis of the guidelines established by the Commission in consultation with the programme committee.>Text following EP vote>2.Schools taking part in one or more of the activities contained in this Action may submit a 'Plan for inter-school cooperation in Europe' covering all the activities proposed. These plans or any individual applications shall be examined by the national structures set up in accordance with Article 5, paragraph 3 of the Decision, involving, with due respect for national systems, the supervisory bodies at regional and local level, on the basis of the guidelines established by the Commission in consultation with the programme committee.>Original text>3. Activities eligible for Community assistance may include the following:>Text following EP vote>3. School partnerships may obtain Community assistance for:>Original text>(a) partnerships involving:>Text following EP vote>(a) the following activities:>Original text>- the mobility of teachers to prepare and monitor partnerships or to teach abroad, including in-company placements;- the development of teaching material and the exchange of good practice;- the involvement of pupils in partnership activities, including mobility for a limited number of them;>Text following EP vote>- the mobility of teachers to prepare and monitor partnerships or to teach abroad, including in-company placements;- the involvement of pupils in partnership activities, and in particular the implementation of educational projects with a European dimension, and mobility for a limited number of them;- the development of teaching material and the exchange of good practice;>Original text>(b) partnerships aimed specifically at promoting the Community's official languages. The partnerships may in exceptional circumstances be bilateral if they target the less widely used languages and may also include exchanges of pupils in addition to the activities referred to in point (a);>Text following EP vote>(b) activities aimed specifically at promoting the Community's official languages. The partnerships may in exceptional circumstances be bilateral if they target the less widely used languages or the languages of neighbouring countries which are little taught and/or not very widespread in those countries, and may also include exchanges of pupils in addition to the activities referred to in point (a);(Amendment 54)Annex (II) Action 1.2 (1)>Original text>1. This action seeks to contribute to the career development of staff working in the school education ector, by reinforcing the European dimension in initial and continuing training.>Text following EP vote>1.This action seeks to contribute to the career development of staff working in the school education sector, by reinforcing the European dimension in initial and continuing training with particular attention to areas of social exclusion, equal opportunities and children at risk(Amendment 55)Annex (II) Action 1.2 (2)>Original text>2. The Community supports multilateral projects from establishments and bodies involved in the training of educational staff, also by making use of the facilities offered by multimedia. The participation of schools and other players involved in the field of education, such as parents' representatives, and socioeconomic affairs is encouraged, as is the involvement of supervisory bodies at regional and local level, where appropriate.>Text following EP vote>2.The Community supports multilateral projects from establishments, voluntary organisations (NGOs) and bodies involved in the training of educational staff, also by making use of the facilities offered by multimedia. The participation of schools and other players involved in the field of education, such as parents' representatives, and socioeconomic affairs is encouraged, as is the involvement of supervisory bodies at regional and local level, where appropriate.(Amendment 31)Annex (II) Action 1.2 (3) (a) and (b)>Original text>(a) the development and/or adaptation of European curricula, teaching material or modules;>Text following EP vote>(a) proposals concerning the development and/or adaptation of European curricula, teaching material or modules;>Original text>(b) aspects of school management;>Text following EP vote>(b) exchanges of information on aspects of school management;(Amendment 32)Annex (II) Action 1.2 (3) (da) (new)>Original text>>Text following EP vote>(da) aspects of specific training relating to providing intercultural and multicultural education.(Amendment 56)Annex (II) Action 1.2 (3)(db) (new)>Original text>>Text following EP vote>(db) educational projects relating to social exclusion, equal opportunities and children at risk, coordinated by leading European NGOs or voluntary organisations in close cooperation with administrative and/or educational bodies at local, regional and national level.(Amendment 50)Annex (II) Action 1.2 (3)(dc) (new)>Original text>>Text following EP vote>(dc) in pilot projects, the cross-border employment for limited periods of young unemployed teachers of languages and other subjects in schools.(Amendment 33)Annex (II) Action 2, 3rd paragraph>Original text>Erasmus also promotes the development and consolidation of thematic networks enabling universities to cooperate on topics relating to one or more disciplines or on matters of mutual interest in order to facilitate the spread of good practice, encourage discussion of qualitative and innovative aspects of higher education, improve teaching methods and stimulate the development of joint programmes and specialised courses. The involvement of representatives of learned societies, professional associations and socio-economic circles is encouraged.>Text following EP vote>Erasmus also promotes the development and consolidation of thematic networks enabling universities to cooperate on topics relating to one or more disciplines or on matters of mutual interest in order to facilitate the spread of good practice, encourage discussion of qualitative and innovative aspects of higher education, improve teaching methods and stimulate the development of joint programmes and specialised courses. The involvement of representatives of learned societies, professional associations and socio-economic circles is encouraged.Special attention must be devoted to dissemination of results attained by means of the thematic networks.(Amendment 52)Annex (II) Action 2.1 (2)(c)>Original text>(c) consolidation of the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS), designed to facilitate academic recognition.>Text following EP vote>(c) the indispensable consolidation of the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS), designed to facilitate mutual academic recognition of study in other Member States. The universities participating in the programme are urged to ensure that the most comprehensive use possible is made of the ECTS system.(Amendment 34)Annex (II) Action 2.2 (3)>Original text>3. The Community encourages the mobility of students and teachers by providing financial support under Erasmus.>Text following EP vote>3.The Community encourages the mobility of students and teachers by providing financial support under Erasmus. In selecting students, apart from the criterion of attainment, priority should be assigned to the financial need of applicants in accordance with the definition of 'need' as laid down in national support arrangements.(Amendment 35)Annex (II) Action 3, 1st paragraph>Original text>The Grundtvig Action seeks to encourage lifelong learning, in particular by offering - as a complement to Actions 1 (school education) and 2 (higher education) - other educational pathways for all citizens desirous of acquiring new knowledge. The Action is targeted in particular at young people who have left the school system with insufficient basic training, those who wish to begin or resume formal studies after a break from the education system and adults wishing to acquire or improve their knowledge for personal reasons.>Text following EP vote>The Grundtvig Action seeks to encourage lifelong learning, in particular by offering - as a complement to Actions 1 (school education) and 2 (higher education) - other educational pathways for all citizens desirous of acquiring new knowledgeand skills. The Action is targeted on the one hand at young people who have left the school system with insufficient basic training, as well as those who wish to begin or resume formal studies after a break from the education system, and on the other hand at adults wishing to acquire new knowledge and skills or improve their knowledge and skills. It is aimed at persons participating in the expansion of democratic culture in Europe and consequently seeking to acquire inter-cultural capabilities..(Amendment 36)Annex (II) Action 3.1(2) (a) to (e)>Original text>(a) the development of new educational approaches, making use in particular of multimedia;>Text following EP vote>(a) the development of new educational approaches such as the development of modules and use of multimedia;>Original text>(b) the development of appropriate teaching material;>Text following EP vote>(b) the development of appropriate teaching material;>Original text>(c) the dissemination of innovatory approaches and good practice;>Text following EP vote>(c) the dissemination of innovatory approaches and good practice;>Original text>(d) the development of accreditation, validation or certification schemes for skills acquired in this manner;>Text following EP vote>(d) the development of accreditation, validation or certification schemes for skills acquired in this manner;>Original text>(e) the training of educational staff working in this sector.>Text following EP vote>(e) the training and further training of educational staff working in this sector.(Amendment 37)Annex (II), Action 3.2 (1)>Original text>1. The aim of this action is to improve the quality of education available to adult learners, in particular by reinforcing cooperation between the various bodies working in this field, and to strengthen the European dimension of adult education by highlighting the richness of the linguistic and cultural diversity of nations, thus developing a sense of belonging to a European citizenship.>Text following EP vote>1.The aim of this action is to improve the quality of education available to adult learners, in particular by reinforcing cooperation between the various bodies working in this field, and to strengthen the European dimension of adult education, including participation in the expansion of democratic culture, by highlighting the richness of the linguistic and cultural diversity of nations, thus developing a sense of belonging to a European citizenship.(Amendment 38)Annex (II) Action 3.2 (2) (a)>Original text>(a) stimulate adults' individual demand for learning, so that they continue to remain active participants in a society undergoing rapid change;>Text following EP vote>(a)stimulate adults' demand for and participation in learning, so that they continue to remain active participants in a society undergoing rapid change;(Amendment 39)Annex (II) Action 3.2 (2) (b) to (e)>Original text>(b) develop support services for adult learners and the providers of such education;>Text following EP vote>(b)develop support services for adult learners and the providers of such education; provide information and advice;>Original text>(c) develop teaching material which may be adapted to multimedia methods of learning and to exchange good practice;>Text following EP vote>(c)develop and exchange teaching material which may be adapted to multimedia methods of learning and to exchange good practice;>Original text>(d) develop accreditation, validation or certification schemes for the skills acquired;>Text following EP vote>(d)develop accreditation, validation or certification schemes for the skills acquired;>Original text>(e) support the training of educational staff working in this sector.>Text following EP vote>(e)support the training and further training of educational staff working in this sector.(Amendment 40)Annex (II) Action 4 (2)>Original text>2. In this context, language teaching covers the teaching and learning as foreign languages of all the official languages of the Community, including Irish and Luxembourgish. Special attention will usually be given throughout the whole programme to the teaching of the least widely used and taught languages of the Community.>Text following EP vote>2.In this context, language teaching covers the teaching and learning as foreign languages of all the official languages in the Member States of the Community, including Irish and Luxembourgish. Special attention will usually be given throughout the whole programme to the teaching of the least widely used and taught languages of the Community.(Amendment 41)Annex (II), Action 5, Title>Original text>ACTION 5 - 'ATLAS': EDUCATION AND MULTIMEDIA>Text following EP vote>ACTION 5 - 'MINERVA': EDUCATION AND MULTIMEDIA(Amendment 42)Annex (II) Action 5(2), 3rd indent>Original text>- projects to develop information services and systems on educational multimedia resources, and communication systems to support the exchange of ideas and experience, including the networking of resource centres, experts, decision-makers and project coordinators on subjects of mutual interest.>Text following EP vote>-projects to develop information services and systems on educational multimedia resources, and communication systems to support the exchange of ideas and experience, including the establishment of multilingual European school television, the networking of resource centres, experts, decision-makers and project coordinators on subjects of mutual interest.(Amendment 58)Annex (II) Action 6>Original text>ACTION 6: OBSERVATION AND INNOVATION>Text following EP vote>ACTION 6:HORIZONTAL MEASURES>Original text>Action 6.1: Observation of education systems and policies>Text following EP vote>A. OBSERVATION AND INNOVATION>Original text>1. The present action contributes to the transparency of education systems in Europe through the exchange of information and experience and turns the specificity of national systems into a source of quality European education. It is based on arrangements involving a variety of activities to be linked together and supported by the Community:>Text following EP vote>1.The present measure contributes to the transparency and constant improvement of education systems in Europe through the exchange of information and experience and turns the specificity of national systems into a source of quality European education.>Original text>>Text following EP vote>2.This measure is based on arrangements involving a variety of observation and innovation activities to be linked together and supported financially by the Community, including:>Original text>>Text following EP vote>(a) Observation activities:>Original text>- creation of Community terms of reference;>Text following EP vote>-creation of Community terms of reference;>Original text>- development of indicators and evaluation of the quality of education, in particular through the networking of the bodies involved and the pilot projects;>Text following EP vote>-development of indicators and evaluation of the quality of education, in particular through the networking of the bodies involved and the pilot projects;>Original text>- development and upkeep of databases of innovatory experiments;>Text following EP vote>-development and upkeep of databases of innovatory experiments, in particular 'Ortelius';>Original text>- linking up of the organisations engaged in analysing educational systems and policies;>Text following EP vote>-linking up of the organisations engaged in analysing educational systems and policies;>Original text>>Text following EP vote>-the organisation of and participation in ARION multilateral study visits;>Original text>- studies and pilot projects on the recognition of diplomas, qualifications and periods of learning at all educational levels in other Member States.>Text following EP vote>- exchange of information, studies and pilot projects on the recognition of diplomas, qualifications and periods of learning at all educational levels in other Member States.>Original text>2. Community support is also granted to:>Text following EP vote>>Original text>- the European education information network 'Eurydice', comprising the European Unit and the national Units, set up by the Commission and the Member States respectively, to enable it to make a full contribution to the implementation of this action;>Text following EP vote>The European education information network 'Eurydice', comprising the European Unit and the national Units, set up by the Commission and the Member States respectively,as well as the Community network of national academic recognition information centres Naric, shall make a full contribution to the implementation of these activities;>Original text>- the organisation of and participation in ARION multilateral study visits,>Text following EP vote>>Original text>- the Community network of national academic recognition information centres Naric, in order to enable the intensive exchange of information between the various parts of the network and the launch of pilot projects on matters of mutual interest designed to facilitate recognition.>Text following EP vote>>Original text>3. Close cooperation with the Statistical Office of the European Communities (Eurostat) is ensured in the implementation of the Action.>Text following EP vote>Close cooperation with the Statistical Office of the European Communities (Eurostat) is ensured in the implementation of the Action.>Original text>Action 6.2: New innovatory techniques>Text following EP vote>(b) Innovation activities>Original text>In addition to the cooperation activities provided for in the various actions of the present programme, the Community also supports transnational projects aimed at developing innovations in one or more specific sectors of education. The subjects given priority are reviewed regularly to enable adaptation to the new requirements which will emerge during the period covered by this programme.>Text following EP vote>In addition to the cooperation activities provided for in theother actions of the present programme, the Community also supports transnational projects aimed at developing innovations in one or more specific sectors of education. The subjects given priority are reviewed regularly to enable adaptation to the new requirements which will emerge during the period covered by this programme.(Amendment 43)Annex (II) Action 7, Title and (1)>Original text>ACTION 7: JOINT ACTIONS>Text following EP vote>ACTION6: HORIZONTAL MEASURES:B. JOINT ACTIONS>Original text>1. For the joint actions described in Article 6 of this Decision, Community support may be provided for joint actions with other actions under the knowledge policy, in particular Community vocational training and youth programmes designed to widen access to knowledge.>Text following EP vote>1.Community support may be provided for actions jointly operated and supported by this programme and other appropriate Community programmes and actions, in particular those in the field of vocational training and youth designed to widen access to knowledge.(Amendment 44)Annex (II) Action 7 (3)>Original text>3. Appropriate steps, a significant one being the setting up of 'European knowledge centres', will be taken to ensure regional and local contact and interaction between the players taking part in this programme and in vocational training and youth-related programmes. This will contribute to the implementation of a policy of lifelong learning in the regions and local districts concerned.>Text following EP vote>3.Appropriate steps, such as the setting up of 'European knowledge centres', will be taken to ensure regional and local contact and interaction between the players taking part in this programme and in other Community programmes, in particular in the field of vocational training and youth. This will contribute to the implementation of a policy of lifelong learning in the regions and local districts concerned.(Amendment 45)Annex (II) Action 8, Title>Original text>ACTION 8: ACCOMPANYING MEASURES>Text following EP vote>ACTION6.HORIZONTAL MEASURES:C. ACCOMPANYING MEASURES(Amendment 46)Annex (III) Introduction>Original text>Procedures for the proposal and selection of the projects referred to in this Annex are as follows:>Text following EP vote>Procedures for the proposal and selection of the projectsset out in this Annex must facilitate access for those concerned:(Amendment 47)Annex (III) (1) (2)>Original text>1. Requests for financial assistance for projects submitted under Actions 1.1 and 1.2 point 3(c), which are considered decentralised, as well as for preparatory visits under all Actions except Action 2, shall be submitted to the integrated management structures designated by the Member States in accordance with Article 5, paragraph 3, of the Decision. These structures shall select the projects and allocate financial assistance to the selected projects in accordance with the general guidelines established under Article 7, paragraph 3, of the Decision.>Text following EP vote>1.Requests for financial assistance for projects submitted under Actions 1.1 and 1.2 point 3(c), which are considered decentralised shall be submitted to the integrated management structures designated by the Member States in accordance with Article 5, paragraph 3, of the Decision. These structures shall select the projects and allocate financial assistance to the selected projects in accordance with the general guidelines established under Article 7, paragraph 3, of the Decision.>Original text>2. The awarding of the financial assistance provided for in Action 2.2 point 3 to students and academic teachers carrying out mobility assignments within the institutional contracts mentioned in Action 2.1, shall be carried out by the integrated management structures designated by the Member States in accordance with Article 5, paragraph 3, of the Decision, in accordance with the general guidelines established under Article 7, paragraph 3, of the Decision.>Text following EP vote>2.The awarding of the financial assistance provided for in Action 2.2 point 3 to students and academic teachers carrying out mobility assignments within the institutional contracts mentioned in Action 2.1, as well as funding for all preparatory visits, shall be carried out by the integrated management structures designated by the Member States in accordance with Article 5, paragraph 3, of the Decision, in accordance with the general guidelines established under Article 7, paragraph 3, of the Decision.(Amendment 48)Annex (IV) (5)(b) (ii) and (iii)>Original text>(ii) the distance between the Member State of origin and the host Member State;>Text following EP vote>(ii)the distance between the Member State of origin and the host Member State; the calculation of the distance is to be based on the distance from the geographical centre of the Member State, and not from its capital;>Original text>(iii) the country's total number of:- pupils and teachers in school education for Action 1.1 and 1.2 point 3(c);- students in higher education for Action 2.2 point 3 (students). The number of graduates could also be taken into account;- teachers in higher education for Action 2.2 point 3 (teachers).>Text following EP vote>(iii)the country's total number of:- pupils and teachers in school education for Action 1.1 and 1.2 point 3(c);- students in higher education for Action 2.2 point 3 (students);- teachers in higher education for Action 2.2 point 3 (teachers).Legislative resolution embodying Parliament's opinion on the proposal for a European Parliament and Council Decision establishing the second phase of the Community action programme in the field of education 'Socrates' (COM(98)0329 - C4-0510/98 - 98/0195(COD))(Codecision procedure: first reading)The European Parliament,- having regard to the Commission proposal to Parliament and the Council, COM(98)0329 - 98/0195(COD) ((OJ C 314, 13.10.1998, p. 5. )),- having regard to Articles 189b(2), 126 and 127 of the EC Treaty, pursuant to which the Commission submitted the proposal to Parliament (C4-0510/98),- having regard to Rule 58 of its Rules of Procedure,- having regard to the report of the Committee on Culture, Youth, Education and the Media and the opinions of the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs and the Committee on Budgets (A4-0371/98),1. Approves the Commission proposal, subject to Parliament's amendments;2. Calls on the Commission to alter its proposal accordingly, pursuant to Article 189a(2) of the EC Treaty;3. Calls on the Council to incorporate Parliament's amendments in the common position that it adopts in accordance with Article 189b(2) of the EC Treaty;4. Should the Council intend to depart from the text approved by Parliament, calls on the Council to notify Parliament and requests that the conciliation procedure be initiated;5. Points out that the Commission is required to submit to Parliament any modification it may intend to make to its proposal as amended by Parliament;6. Instructs its President to forward this opinion to the Council and Commission.