SPARC Europe, with its two-decade legacy in advocating for Open Access, is initiating an ambitious year-long project to merge the realms of Open Science and Open Education. This groundbreaking initiative aims to enhance research, education, and societal welfare by fostering equitable and fair access to knowledge across Europe.
Titled "Connecting the Worlds of Open Science and Open Education to Increase Capacity for an Open Europe," the project underscores the significance of a unified open agenda. SPARC Europe seeks to demonstrate the tangible benefits of integrating these fields for European public universities, emphasizing the value of open, equitable, and fair access to knowledge.
Project Overview and Phases:
• Mapping Open Actors: The first phase involves identifying and mapping actors in Open Science and Open Education within Higher Education institutions across Europe.
• Documenting Insights: The second phase focuses on analyzing the similarities and differences between Open Science and Open Education, assessing the risks and opportunities of their convergence.
• Establishing a Hub: The final phase aims to position SPARC Europe as a central hub for information, connecting Open Science and Open Education initiatives across Europe.
To support these efforts, SPARC Europe will compile a bibliographic reference list, conduct interviews with senior university leaders, develop key talking points, and design a compelling case for a broader Open Agenda. This initiative will also explore the roles and responsibilities of European Higher Education actors in advancing openness.
The project is funded by an Organizational Effectiveness Grant from the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, aimed at fostering growth and capacity-building for strategic goal achievement.
The activities of this project are set to span into the summer of 2025, with a series of events, interviews, and publications planned to engage stakeholders and raise awareness about the importance of a connected open agenda.
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