The design, the first implementation steps and the expected developments of the LEPLA project will be described and discussed.
The main objective of this EU funded project is to develop an internationally available, innovative learning environment based on ICT, multimedia educational material and handheld technology, extending physics laboratory activities to open and distant learning.
LEPLA is targeted at teachers and students at secondary school and undergraduate university level, in particular in contexts where experimental activities are absent or difficult to implement using traditional methods.
Collaborative activities of the partner institutions (from Poland, Sweden, Ireland, UK and Italy) will result in the development of an Internet-based public resource with a set of experimental modules including multimedia learning material, downloadable necessary computing procedures, programmes and sets of sample experimental data to be used together with inexpensive small-scale portable experimental arrangements.
The platform and materials will be available in English, Italian, Swedish and Polish, together with a CDROM version for stand-alone use.
The project includes practical testing and teachers’ training activities, using the material developed.
Finally LEPLA creates a Forum and a trans-national cooperation network to promote experience exchange in experimental physics teaching and educational usage of information technology.