Policy Formulation and Networks of Practice in European eLearning: the emergence of a European E‐Learning Area

This article discusses the emergence of a E uropean E ‐ L earning A rea ( EELA ) as a consequence of three factors that can be observed in the e‐learning developments over the past decade. The first factor consists of the carving of a policy sector in e‐learning via formal instruments such as the e L earning P rogramme, the L ifelong L earning P rogramme and an array of other e‐learning policy stipulations embedded in larger policy instruments at E uropean level (e.g. F ramework P rogramme). The second factor is represented by the mainstreaming of e‐learning activities, both through formal and informal measures across multiple domains. Finally, the proliferation and consolidation of interlinked networks of practice as incubators of e‐learning innovation and sharing of expertise act as the third factor in the shaping of EELA . The conceptualisation of EELA is substantiated through an analysis of the E uropean e‐learning policy documentation and the findings of a questionnaire distributed to the coordinators of projects under the e L earning P rogramme. In light of the findings, theoretical and practical implications for EELA as a nascent policy domain are explored and offered as a basis for further debate on this theme.