Innovative Entreprise Architecture Education and Training Based on Web 2.0 Technologies (Social Train/EA Train)

Enterprise architecture (EA) approaches are widely accepted as a valuable means in order to enable organizations to gain back control over their IT systems, to lower costs and to accelerate decision making. EA is essential for organizations for both the public and private sector as it allows them to align complex business processes and it enables them an integrated vision and a global perspective of informational resources. Following an EA is mandatory by law for all public authorities in the USA. Only a few universities have specialized courses in EA. However, a number of relevant training courses exist, where enrollment fees are significant.

It should be noted that the implementation of strategic initiatives in EA faces considerable challenges. According to studies, less than ten percent of strategic initiatives are implemented successfully[1]. The power to implement these strategic initiatives is very important and presumes that employees (public servants or private employees) are having the necessary qualities to design and implement an Enterprise Architecture.

At the same time the nature of the Internet has begun to change. The "Social Web" is a term that can be used to illustrate this change. Social Web describes a subset of interactions that are highly social, conversational and participatory.  These characteristics of "Social Web" and Web 2.0 applications provide opportunities for innovative pedagogies and practices for education and training.

The aim of this project is to enhance existing VET and university-level educational practices in the area of EA by combining technical with innovation skills training using Web 2.0 related technologies and active learning approaches.