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This training course aims to reflect on and discuss various strategies, methods, and best practices to foster inclusion in the classroom. The guiding principles of this training are empathy, cooperation, and a sense of belonging, which are essential elements of inclusive education.  The latest edition of the course, “Special Needs and Inclusive Education: The Italian Experience of Overcoming Segregation”, was held in Palermo from November 18 to November 22, 2024. Participants came from across Europe, including Therese Nyström and Charlotta Kjellberg from Turebergsskolan - Sweden and Jurgita Sabaliauskiene and Skaidre Gaidamaviciene from Ukmergė School of Technologies and Business - Lithuania  The first key concept, “Empathy,” is fundamental for fostering relationships between teachers, students, and families. It involves seeing things from others’ perspectives, avoiding judgment, understanding others’ emotions, and effectively communicating that understanding. Developing these behaviors is crucial for creating meaningful connections within an educational setting, particularly when supporting students with special needs  The concept of “Belonging” focuses on the feeling of being part of a group and recognizing the value of one’s contributions to others. By removing barriers to communication and fostering mutual understanding, respect, and tolerance, a sense of belonging creates a welcoming environment that encourages and supports learning.  The third key concept, “Cooperation,” highlights the importance of collaboration with families. This partnership is vital for building a supportive system for students with special needs. Teachers play a crucial role in guiding both students and their parents, offering resources and advice on how to best support the child’s learning journey.  During the course, participants explored the “Italian Model,” a unique approach to inclusive education that eliminates special schools and integrates all students into the same system. This model relies on specialized professionals, such as Support Teachers and Educators, to provide tailored assistance. To see the Italian Model in action, participants visited Istituto Comprensivo Rosario Livatino in Ficarazzi. This visit allowed them to observe how the theories and methods discussed during the course were implemented in a real educational context.  One of the most valuable aspects of the training was the opportunity for participants to share perspectives, methods, and models during networking activities. These exchanges fostered mutual learning and enriched everyone’s understanding of inclusive practices. The training also offered participants new tools and models to refine their practices, encouraging ongoing improvement. The week concluded with heartfelt thanks to all the participants, whose dedication made the course truly unique.  Discover more about this course here
In the past years, traditional education has had to make way for virtual lessons and online classes. This shift forced us to adapt and develop new methods for remote teaching and learning. In this context, the use of new technologies, digital tools, and interactive learning platforms has proven to be a highly effective strategy. These technologies made it possible for teachers worldwide to maintain an engaging and dynamic classroom environment, even in virtual settings. They also demonstrated their value in real classrooms, particularly in encouraging student attention and enthusiasm.  The new edition of the course “Making the most of new technologies, apps and social media in the classroom” concentrated exactly on these matters. This session of the course took place in Palermo from 17/11/2024 to 23/11/2024. The participants of our group came from two different European countries, with Anna from Wroclaw University of Science and Technology in Poland and Izla from Källvindsskolan, Norrköping in Sweden. The aim of this course was learning how to use a large range of technological tools and to put them into use by integrating them into their teaching methods. In order to teach easily and more effectively the goal was to apply these new technologies into both real and virtual classrooms. First of all, the course was introduced by having a look at simple and easy tools to facilitate digital communication between students and teachers that are very effective, engaging and fun. Such tools can be used in fact for a variety of purposes such as collecting and sharing resources and content. Moreover they were learning about platforms that allowed them to collect and enrich videos, images, texts, pdf, and other materials, and sharing all this content with their students in just a simple click. In order to describe different parts of a picture, especially in scientific subjects, and to provide a deeper context for a richer learning experience when approaching a new topic, for example in foreign language studies, these tools can be very useful. Furthermore participants practiced tools that function as collaborative walls, where every user is encouraged to contribute in building a more exhaustive collection of information by posting content. Another topic explored was how to use social media in an educational context, which can serve multiple options of use in today´s learning. This way the participants learned that setting up accounts on different applications and enriching them with contents can help them to keep in touch with their students in a way that’s part of their everyday life. In addition to the various tools they explored, they also discovered interactive presentation features that allows the teacher to see the opinion of the class by submitting polls, generating word clouds, or collecting questions and feedback on the topic being discussed. They also learned about apps related to AI, which have proven to be effective especially in today's digital age, as well as online learning quizzes that are valuable for assessing student progress. Leaving with new knowledge of interactive learning and new technologies and a new set of tools, the participants were ready to use them in their real and online lessons. In order to help transform learning into a fun and dynamic activity, there is no doubt that this strategy will increase the students´ creativity, engagement, attention and motivation. Discover more about this course here.   The European funding landscape is rich with opportunities for educators to enhance instruction. The Erasmus+ program stands out as a key initiative in Education, Training, Youth, and Sport, providing numerous options to improve the quality and inclusivity of education by supporting a variety of activities and organizations. The recent edition of the course "Excelling in European Project Management and Design for Educators" was held in Tenerife from 10/11/2024 to 16/11/2024. Participants from various European countries joined, includingStergios, Ellinikakis and Ntanakas from First High School of Peristeri Athens in Greece, Marie-Theres and Stephanie from BRG Pichelmayergasse in Austria, Lucia from Národné osvetové centrum in Slovakia, Jochen and Margot from Vzw Onderwijsinrichtingen Voorzienigheid in Belgium, Gábor from Batthyány Lajos Gimnázium in Hungary, Armanda from ISIS Mamoli in Italy. The course began with an in-depth examination of the European funding landscape. Participants took part in team-building activities, assessed their needs and expectations, and gained insights into funding opportunities, particularly emphasizing Erasmus+ and other relevant programs identified during the needs assessment phase. Participants then embarked on a collaborative project initiative, designed to develop and improve throughout the training week with the support of trainers. They began by discussing their main project ideas, assessing potential funding programs and related actions, before organizing themselves into groups accordingly. The course proceeded with an introduction to Project Cycle Management and the Logical Framework Approach, which serve as crucial theoretical foundations in European Project Design. As the project advanced, participants concentrated on developing problem and objective trees.The group also examined practical insights from EU-funded projects, aiming to assess the impact of an effective Work Breakdown Structure in project design and management. Various tools for time management and project design were presented and discussed, with the goal of establishing a new focus for project initiatives: developing the project framework and activity plan. The next session sought to enhance the technical skills of course participants by exploring budgeting, eligible costs, expenditure planning, and monitoring. As the course came to a close, participants and trainers exchanged valuable insights, best practices, tips, and strategies related to effective project management, event organization, promotion, and community engagement. Participants were guided through the process of presenting their final project idea, simulating a pitch to a funding body. This exercise emphasized the value of effective communication in project design and management, while also consolidating the key insights, knowledge, and skills acquired during the training week. Hoping this learning experience and networking opportunity will be advantageous for their future project applications! Discover more about this course at https://www.erasmustrainingcourses.com/eu-project-design.htmlIn today's world, it's common to feel overwhelmed and doubt our ability to handle daily tasks. Stressful situations can arise in both our professional and personal lives, making it challenging to navigate conflicts in high-pressure environments. In this course, participants had the chance to explore both theoretical concepts and practical activities designed to equip them with tools for managing and overcoming conflict and stress. The latest edition of the course “Stress and Conflict Management: The Path to Resilience and Satisfaction” was held in Tenerife from 17/11/2024 to 23/11/2024. Participants came from various countries across Europe, including Sabrina and Andrea from GMS Diespeck in Germany, Josefin and Manuela from Sportgymnasium Dresden in Germany, Maureen and Thurid from Christian-Gymnasium Hermannsburg in Germany, and Matthias from Deutsche Schule Sofia in Bulgaria.
On the first day, participants engaged in group brainstorming to discuss the concept of stress. They identified that stress can stem from various stressors, such as physical, environmental, familial, and work-related factors. Interestingly, a manageable amount of stress can have positive effects, motivating us to achieve our goals or meet deadlines. Consequently, participants learned to differentiate between Distress (negative stress) and Eustress (positive stress). During the course, participants explored a range of cognitive and behavioral strategies aimed at managing stress in the workplace. Another important topic discussed during the course was empathy, an essential skill for managing conflicts. It can sometimes be difficult to express empathy, especially when we haven’t shared similar experiences with the person we’re engaging with. Nevertheless, empathy is a skill that can be developed, and participants learned how to distinguish it from other types of responses.
The last topic discussed was mindfulness, defined as the practice of being fully present and observing thoughts and experiences without judgment. Mindfulness enhances attention, self-awareness, and emotional regulation, and mindfulness-based stress reduction is widely recognized for managing stress and mental health. Participants practiced mindfulness exercises and meditation, which helped them increase their awareness of their senses, thoughts, and emotions, fostering a greater sense of presence and mindfulness. Discover more about this course here.  The landscape of European funding is filled with possibilities for education staff to make the difference in instruction. The Erasmus+ program, a beacon for Education, Training, Youth, and Sport, is offering a plethora of options to elevate the quality and inclusion of education by supporting various activities and organizations.
It is not always easy to keep the classroom motivated, engaged and enthusiast when it comes to teaching. This is when ICT tools such as apps and web platforms become essential in helping teachers to communicate and transfer knowledge while also maintaining their students’ full attention. Nowadays it is fundamental to know our way around interactive learning so that we can offer our students an alternative and non-traditional style of learning and keep them engaged. During this course the participants learnt how to use a vast range of technological tools and to put them into use by integrating it into their teaching methods. |
| This concept was fundamental during the new edition of the course "ChatGpt and AI for teachers: Artificial Intelligence in schools and education" that took place in Bologna from 10/11/2024 - 16/11/2024. The participants came from all across Europe, including Ruja Kiss, Miriam Pietrangeli, Christine Jerat, Gerhard Hartmann and Sigrun Bischoff-Kaufmann from Bayerischer Volkshochschulverband e.V. in Germany; Katrine Olga Skobba and Ingrid Bie Dyrnes from Eikeli videregående skole in Norway and MIGUEL GUAL PEREZ TEMPLADO from IES VILLA DE ABARÁN in Spain. |  |
The initial subject explored in the session was the significance of AI in education. This includes understanding how AI can enhance learning experiences by personalizing content, automating administrative tasks, and providing data-driven insights. Participants examined AI-powered tools that can be used to support teaching, such as intelligent tutoring systems, automated grading software, and adaptive learning platforms.
One of the primary focuses was on the importance of prompting in using Chat GPT. Effective prompting can significantly influence the quality of responses generated by AI, making it a crucial skill for educators. Participants practiced crafting precise and contextually appropriate prompts to maximize the utility of Chat GPT in classroom settings.
| Another crucial topic was the ethical implications of AI in education, covering aspects like bias in algorithms, privacy concerns, and the necessity for clear policies to govern AI use. Understanding these ethical dimensions is essential to ensure AI applications are fair, transparent, and beneficial for all students. |  |
 | The course also delved into integrating ICT tools with AI features, highlighting tools that enhance collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking among students. Participants were encouraged to explore various ICT applications and consider how these can be augmented with AI capabilities to improve learning outcomes. Assessment in the age of AI was another significant topic. The discussion centered around developing new assessment methods that leverage AI for formative assessments, providing real-time feedback, and supporting differentiated instruction. The potential of AI to create more personalized and effective assessment strategies was emphasized. |
Throughout this training week, participants had the opportunity to share their collective experiences and gain insights from diverse cultural backgrounds. This collaborative environment facilitated the acquisition of AI skills and provided a platform for participants to explore applying them within their classrooms.
Discover more about this course here.
In today’s fast-paced world, education is key to shaping the future of societies. As technology progresses and learners’ needs evolve, traditional teaching methods can struggle to keep up. Innovative teaching strategies offer a solution by making learning more engaging while helping students develop critical thinking, teamwork, and adaptability. The course "Innovative Teaching Methods for Teachers, School, and Adult Education Staff" focuses on exploring these modern techniques, tailored to meet the participants’ unique needs and contexts.
The new edition of the course took place in Bologna from 10/11/2024 to 16/11/2024. The participants were coming from all across Europe: with Szilvia coming from Kecskeméti Református Gimnázium in Hungary; Caroline and Diane from CVO Lethas (vzw Sint-Goedele Brussel) in Belgium, Hana coming from Czech Republic’s Křesťanské Gymnázium; the group of Spanish: Teresa, Alfonso, Roberto, and María Purificación from Jose María Iribarren; Monika, Lidia, Adrian, and Jarosław from the Polish Liceum Ogólnokształcące im. Tadeusza Kościuszki w Gostyninie; and last but not least, Eva from the Czech Republic’s ScioŠkola Brno.
Thanks to extensive research and various studies, a wide range of tools is now available for use in the school environment. Methods such as project-based learning, non-formal education, outdoor education, and ICT offer valuable opportunities to complement and enhance traditional teaching approaches.
 | The course began by introducing participants to the concepts of innovation and 21st-century skills, providing a platform for them to share their ideas and challenges while delving into the principles of non-formal education. This initial session emphasized the growing importance of fostering critical skills such as creativity, communication, collaboration, and critical thinking, all of which are crucial in innovative education. Participants explored how these competencies could be nurtured through innovative teaching methodologies that move beyond traditional practices. |
Building on this foundation, the focus shifted to Project-Based Learning (PBL) and formative assessment, offering a deep dive into how these strategies can transform the classroom into an active space for inquiry and problem-solving. Through the lens of PBL, participants examined how extended, real-world projects enable students to engage meaningfully with subject matter while developing essential skills like teamwork, self-management, and critical analysis. Practical exercises and discussions allowed participants to design and tailor PBL approaches to varied educational settings, ensuring these methods could be effectively applied in their professional contexts.
| As the week progressed, attention turned to gamification and game-based learning, methodologies that blend education with elements of play to enhance student engagement and motivation. Participants explored the theoretical and practical aspects of creating interactive learning experiences that not only capture students’ interest but also build crucial skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, and strategic thinking. The session highlighted how these approaches could be seamlessly integrated into a curriculum to make learning both enjoyable and impactful. |  |
 | Later, the course transitioned to the theme of outdoor education, culminating in a city-wide treasure hunt through Bologna’s historic center. This hands-on activity exemplified how outdoor learning, when combined with technology, can create immersive and meaningful educational experiences. The treasure hunt encouraged participants to consider how real-world contexts and experiential learning promote problem-solving, teamwork, and a deeper connection to the material. Additionally, this activity allowed participants to explore the city in an engaging and educational way, reinforcing the idea that learning extends beyond the classroom. |
The final phase of the course focused on the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools into teaching and learning. Participants discovered how digital tools like interactive presentations, quizzes, and educational games can revolutionize the classroom by fostering interactivity and connecting learning to students' everyday digital experiences. This session also included peer learning activities, encouraging participants to share insights and reflect collaboratively on the innovative techniques covered throughout the week.
By the end of the course, participants had developed a comprehensive understanding of innovative teaching methodologies and their practical applications. These new approaches equipped them with the tools and strategies needed to create dynamic, future-focused learning environments that inspire students and prepare them to meet the challenges of an ever-changing world.
By the end of the course, participants had developed a comprehensive understanding of innovative teaching methodologies and their practical applications. These new approaches equipped them with the tools and strategies needed to create dynamic, future-focused learning environments that inspire students and prepare them to meet the challenges of an ever-changing world.
Discover more about this course here.
Welcome to the ELA Blog. Here you will find articles and photos of our courses and have a look at the topics addressed during the week in Bologna, Palermo and Tenerife. You will also have the chance to take a peek at our projects and check out what we have been up to.
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