Profile

The IFS is a young non-profit institution of applied research, which focuses on selected topics of future learning and work and the promotion of lifelong learning. The institute was founded by the Association for Flexible Learning and is located in Innsbruck/Zirl, Tyrol (Austria). The IFS mission is to provide active support in applying innovative ways of learning and getting a vision about future challenges of learning, education and training. The institute investigates current trends, analyses possibilities and risks in society and examines consequences on professional and private lives. It tries to ensure more effective and cost-efficient education and responds to the increasing need to get oriented about the future of learning and the roles of technologies in education. Within a socio-economic context the IFS analyses the different dimensions of learning from a pedagogical, organisational and technological perspective. A strong emphasis is given to research on the future use of information and communication technologies (ICT) for different contexts of learning (formal, non-formal and informal learning) and their combination in education and training and at work. Scientific work is relating to flexible learning approaches and ways to decrease learning barriers. Here, special consideration is given to both individuals and groups with specific needs. The latest projects focus on the needs of the ageing population and design-for-all requirements. Current focus is set on: Emerging educational theories, models and their application, e.g. learning styles, organisational models for training and learning and “new learning cultures”, Research on eLearning in SMEs, collaboration in Communities of Practice Competence based approaches: Validation and documentation of informal learning processes, harmonisation of European certification schemes and training material for IT professionals Course development: Development and evaluation of European eTutor training, eLearning course design, Innovative practices in science education Carreer guidance and competence development Evaluation of learning and training activities ICT in education and training: 3D-environments for education and learning, “Social Software” applied in learning and working contexts Accessibility issues and activities relating to eInclusion of people with specific needs A variety of projects contribute to reflections, insights and solutions in school education, higher education, vocational training / continuing education and training, teacher training and other public and private institutions such as informal learning providers (museums, libaries etc.) and companies (SMEs etc.). IFS staff is providing support to the European Commisson and its agencies, international networks such as ORIENTE, AACE, EDeAN etc. and educational institutions in Europe. Employees represent competencies in pedagogy, information science, psychology, law, marketing and design-for-all. Employees and external experts contribute to a variety of activities in research, awareness-raising, training and dissemination. The Steering committee is composed of a European group of researchers who are recognised experts in the fields of education, evaluation, technologies and socio-economic affairs.