Education revolution: keeping up with new generations

Engaging students presents a complex challenge: this is the reason why employing innovative approaches serves as a valuable resource to inspire and enrich their educational experiences. Thanks to diverse studies, various tools now exist for application within educational settings: non-formal education, outdoor education, information and communication technology or project-based learning represent just a few opportunities that may complement traditional teaching methods.
The recent edition of the course "Innovative teaching methods for teachers, school and adult education staff" occurred in Tenerife from 28/01/2024 to 03/02/2024. Participants hailed from various European countries, with Silvana, Francesca, Gaspare and Daniela from Santa Ninfa in Italy, Inés from University of Economics and Business in Czech Republic, Frank and Bas from Saxion University of Applied Sciences in Netherlands, Jacintha, Alan and Carmel from LCETB in Ireland.

​On Monday and Tuesday visual strategies and team-building activities underscored the efficacy of Non-formal education (NFE): so through these activities participants explored Kolb’s experiential learning cycle, recognising its capacity to transition from reflection to conceptualisation and application, thereby empowering pupils to actively engage in the learning process. 
On Wednesday debriefing sessions highlighted the benefits of Outdoor education, including enhanced motivation, creativity and improved psychophysical well-being through nature immersion and stress reduction: so the use of an ICT tool engaged teachers in a unique treasure hunt experience, uncovering the essence of outdoor education in an entertaining manner.

​On Thursday innovative teaching methods with Information and communication technology (ICT) were explored, with participants practicing a large number of tools in order to present lessons dynamically, enhance student engagement and assess learning: in this way the course facilitated participants' comprehension of employing a more innovative approach in their teaching practices.

​On Friday Project-based learning (PBL) enabled participants to immerse themselves in content in a direct manner, starting from a central question and exploring real-world problems: consequently, by examining the principles of PBL, they discovered how teamwork, collaboration and creativity aid students in tackling authentic issues, strategically learning and seeking solutions from the outset.
Towards the end of the week the team's morale soared, making farewells difficult: nevertheless, the group eagerly anticipated returning to apply the myriad ideas gleaned during the course in their respective countries. Finally, while another stimulating week concluded, the journey of inspiration continued upon their return home!
Explore more about this course here.