For three days in September 2024, we participated in a training organized by Valang Consulting on non-formal education led by an Invited Expert from Croatia. This training was part of the KA122 Capacité+ project, project co-funded by Erasmus+ program and the European Union.
The program aimed to enhance our understanding of non-formal and informal education, equipping us with practical skills and strategies to integrate these methods into real-world scenarios. The training covered key topics such as inclusivity, motivation, engagement, and creativity, while also exploring the emerging trend of blending non-formal approaches into formal education.
The training provided a strong foundation in non-formal education, emphasizing its learner-centered and flexible nature. We explored how non-formal education supports lifelong learning and encourages adaptability. Practical sessions allowed us to design and engage in hands-on non-formal activities, equipping us with transferable tools that can be applied to diverse educational and training environments. Discussions on inclusivity highlighted strategies to make learning accessible for individuals facing fewer opportunities.
One of the most valuable aspects of the training was the opportunity to participate in workshops where we developed and presented non-formal learning activities. We also explored digital tools such as Genially and Trello, which can enhance interactive learning experiences. Case studies demonstrated successful models of integrating non-formal methods into formal education, particularly in Finland, where experiential learning techniques are widely adopted.
The training was highly engaging and interactive, fostering a collaborative learning environment. We gained practical insights into motivation strategies, creativity stimulation, and ways to implement non-formal education techniques in our professional practice. The action planning session helped me outline concrete steps to apply our learning, ensuring that the knowledge gained during the training translates into meaningful educational initiatives.
Overall, this training was an enriching experience, providing both theoretical knowledge and practical tools to implement non-formal education effectively. The discussions, hands-on activities, and case studies reinforced the importance of innovative and inclusive learning approaches. We look forward to applying these methods in our future work and sharing our learnings with colleagues and peers during a seminar in the Alps.
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