ESIB Opinion: Horizontal Mobility 

ESIB's opinion on the matter

So far horizontal mobility has been the major mean of mobility for a large number of
students all around Europe, and it has clearly been more popular than vertical, so
called degree-mobility. After the currently ongoing introduction of the two-tier
degree structure within the Bologna-process, the emphasis between these two
modes may change. The influence of two-tier degree system on horizontal mobility
has to be monitored, and if horizontal mobility becomes greatly hindered, efficient
solutions have to be found. Increasing mobility – inside one’s own higher education
institution, nationally and internationally – is one of the central possibilities offered
by the Bologna-process. In order to make full use of this possibility the problems of
recognition must be solved.

The most visible threat concerning horizontal mobility and the introduction of the
two-tier structure is the timing of a short study period abroad. ESIB demands that
possibilities for mobility should be offered during both first and second cycle. This is
clearly the responsibility of governments and the higher education institutions. The
study period should not automatically lengthen the duration of studies, but as this
still seems to be the situation, students should not face the negative consequences
because of this. It should not be possible for a student to study abroad only between
degrees. Study periods abroad could offer general academic competencies but also
strengthen the specialisation of the student in one’s own field of study.

Degree structures should be flexible enough to encompass different skills learnt
through different methods as long as they are relevant to the field of study. By
bringing new theories and new knowledge back home and by asking questions we
also give input to the subject.

The development of the two-tier degree structure should, at its best, create
enhanced possibilities for mobility after the completion of the first cycle. However,
mobility should be regarded as an opportunity, not as a requirement in order to get a
high-quality degree. According to ESIB a major function of joint degrees should be to
stimulate student and teacher mobility. The risk of European master and joint
degrees taking a lion’s share from the institutions’ resources must be prevented.

In some fields of study structural changes are needed in order to increase flexibility
and making horizontal mobility generally possible. Programmes providing possibilities
for horizontal mobility can serve as a valuable tool to increase possibilities for free
movers.