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A Centre to Promote Quality Language Education in Europe

Contemporary European societies are characterised and enriched by linguistic and cultural diversity, by migration and mobility. However we only truly value and treasure these characteristics by recognising and responding to the associated challenges.

Language education is key: the provision of lifelong, quality language education supports
not only educational and professional success, but personal development and a sense
of self-worth, all of which help foster economic growth, democratic citizenship and social
cohesion.

The ECML's Strategic Objectives are to help its member states implement effective language teaching policies by:

  • focusing on the practice of the learning and teaching of languages
  • promoting dialogue and exchange among those active in the field 
  • training multipliers 
  • supporting programme-related networks and research projects

In order to implement its strategic objectives, the European Centre for Modern Languages, organises a programme of international projects on language education.

Basing its work on the underlying values of the Council of Europe and its pioneering work in language education, the ECML is ideally equipped to act as a catalyst for reform in the teaching and learning of languages.

Practical information

Arrangements for visits:
  • Visits are free and last between 1 hour and 1h30.
  • Group visits: please return the request form (in English, French or German) to information@ecml.at at least 21 days before the desired date.
  • Individual visits: possible according to availability; please return the request form (in English or in French) to information@ecml.at at least 21 days before the desired visit date.
  • Additional input for teachers and trainee teachers of all subjects: fixed dates and times communicated by the Austrian Association.
  • Workshops for school pupils: two or three times a year target groups will be informed directly about fixed dates and times announced by the Austrian Association.
  • The ECML is open from Monday to Friday. It is closed on weekends and public holidays.

ECML visit leaflet can be downloaded here:

English - French - German

Contact us:

European Centre for Modern Languages of the Council of Europe
Nikolaiplatz 4
8020 Graz
Austria
Web: www.ecml.at
Phone: +43-316 32 35 54
E-mail: information@ecml.at 

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25th Anniversary publication

Changing contexts, evolving competences: 25 years of inspiring innovation in language education

This publication celebrates a momentous stage in the history of the European Centre for Modern Languages: its 25th anniversary. Its central aims are to review and showcase the achievements of the ECML, as reflected in its many projects and publications, and to put its achievements in the context of the broader work of the Council of Europe.

This publication offers a fascinating journey through the world of international language education over a quarter of a century, seen from the perspective of one of its main actors, the European Centre for Modern Languages of the Council of Europe.

Demographic, political and technological changes in society combined with globalisation have dramatically reshaped the educational landscape in Europe in the past 25 years. As a result, the language-related expectations and challenges within national education systems have significantly evolved.

The publication which focuses on the role and achievements of the ECML in this context, includes contributions from international experts working at the cutting edge of language education as well as testimonials from stakeholders responsible for supporting and implementing innovative approaches to language education around Europe.

View download page

Our vision: A Europe committed to linguistic and cultural diversity, where the key role of quality language education in achieving intercultural dialogue, democratic citizenship and social cohesion is recognised and supported.