In our consortium, together with the teachers involved in Extracurricular education facilities we managed to develop four main project results:
Theoretical and methodological framework of applying
Experiential Learning in Public Bodies.
This publication presents the theoretical and methodological framework for applying experiential learning in public institutions, specifically in the context of non-formal education. It emphasizes the importance of adapting education to the needs of learners and creating engaging, practical experiences that foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration.
The report highlights key aspects of experiential learning, such as the Kolb Experiential Learning Cycle, learning styles, and the creation of conducive learning environments. It also explores the development of key competences through experiential methods, including communication, digital literacy, and social skills, which are vital for active participation in society.
A significant part of this publication is the Non-formal Education Educator Self-Evaluation Tool, an innovative and practical annex designed for teachers and educators. This tool enables educators to reflect on their teaching methods, assess their effectiveness, and identify areas for professional growth. By encouraging self-assessment and reflection, the tool helps educators continuously improve their practices, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of their learners. Its innovative approach lies in empowering teachers to take control of their own development through structured reflection and personalized feedback.
Additionally, the research conducted for this report analyzes the readiness of teachers in out-of-school institutions to apply experiential learning, revealing both opportunities and challenges they face.
Overall, this resource, along with the self-evaluation tool, provides practical support and insights for educators aiming to enhance their teaching practices through experiential learning, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.
Educational Module for Teachers
This publication outlines the process and outcomes of the trainings conducted as part of the project, offering educators practical tools and methods to implement experiential learning in non-formal education settings. The trainings targeted teachers from extracurricular educational institutions and were spread over four months. They provided support for project outcomes, with feedback from participants directly influencing the final results.
The report emphasizes the value of experiential learning, particularly within the context of non-formal education, where educators have flexibility in designing and delivering programs. Participants were introduced to methods that promote engagement and autonomy in learners, including the Kolb Learning Cycle, and engaged in activities that developed their skills in applying these concepts to their teaching practices.
A significant feature of this result is the inclusion of a self-evaluation tool for non-formal education educators, which is an innovative, practical resource designed to help teachers reflect on their methods and continuously improve their effectiveness. The tool supports educators in assessing their strengths and areas for growth, encouraging a reflective approach to teaching. By simplifying and clarifying the evaluation process, the publication aims to overcome the negative associations many educators have with evaluation.
This resource offers educators not only theoretical knowledge but also practical strategies to enhance their teaching, making experiential learning more accessible and impactful in various educational contexts.
A Teacher’s Guide to Developing Educational Programs
This publication serves as a comprehensive guide for educators, offering practical support in designing and developing original educational programs, particularly within the context of non-formal education. It aims to equip teachers with the tools necessary to create effective, adaptable, and engaging curricula that cater to the needs of various learners.
Key topics covered in the guide include:
- The importance of setting clear educational objectives
- Selecting appropriate content and teaching methods
- Planning program evaluations
- Structuring curriculum development in a flexible, creative manner
The guide is structured to help educators move from theoretical foundations to practical applications. It also emphasizes the need for curricula to be adaptable to the rapidly changing educational and societal landscape, encouraging innovation and flexibility in program design.
One of the distinctive features of the publication is its constructivist approach to learning and teaching, where students play an active role in their educational journey. This model promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration, making the learning process more dynamic and student-centered.
The Experiential Learning Cycle is central to the publication, advocating for a hands-on approach to learning, where students are engaged through direct experience, reflection, abstract conceptualization, and application. This method is particularly useful in fostering competencies such as creativity, teamwork, and adaptability—skills essential for the modern world.
Additionally, the publication provides educators with practical tools and guidelines for self-evaluation, emphasizing the importance of reflection in personal and professional growth. By incorporating both theoretical insights and practical tools, this guide supports educators in creating curricula that not only impart knowledge but also foster the holistic development of their students.
Examples of Author Educational Programs
This publication presents five original educational programs, each accompanied by 4-5 detailed lesson scenarios, developed as part of a long-term educational process. These programs were created under the mentorship of partner organizations by participants engaged in the project. Each program and scenario was designed with a strong connection to experiential learning methodologies, ensuring that the learning process remains practical, engaging, and student-centered.
The educational programs are closely linked to the other project results, drawing on the theoretical and practical insights gained from earlier outputs, particularly in terms of program development and evaluation. Each lesson scenario is crafted to offer real-world applicability and encourage learners to actively participate in their educational journey, fostering critical thinking and reflection.
One of the distinctive features of this publication is the integration of the Experiential Learning Cycle, which guides the creation of the scenarios. This approach ensures that each activity moves through the stages of concrete experience, reflective observation, abstract conceptualization, and active experimentation, making the learning process dynamic and effective. The programs aim to empower educators with practical tools that can be easily adapted and implemented in various educational contexts, especially within non-formal education.