Unleashing the European Dimension: Empowering Educators for Global Collaboration
Course overview
This intensive 5-day professional development course is designed to empower educators with the knowledge, skills, and strategies to integrate a strong European dimension into their teaching practices. Participants will explore European educational frameworks, cultural diversity, and collaborative learning, gaining practical insights into fostering a globally-minded and inclusive educational environment.
The course will delve into the foundations of European educational frameworks and policies, providing participants with an understanding of key documents such as the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) and the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS). Participants will engage in discussions and case studies to analyze the impact of European policies on national education systems.
Emphasis will be placed on celebrating and integrating cultural diversity within the classroom. Participants will attend interactive workshops and panel discussions, learning strategies to incorporate diverse cultural perspectives into lesson planning and fostering inclusivity in multicultural classrooms.
The course will introduce participants to digital tools and platforms for European collaboration, enabling them to engage in hands-on sessions and learn about successful cross-border projects. Participants will have the opportunity to set up accounts on selected collaboration platforms and begin ideating their own collaborative projects.
Project-based learning will be a central focus, with participants embracing this approach to enhance the European dimension in their teaching practices. Through case study analysis and guided group activities, participants will create project outlines that integrate multiple European perspectives, receiving peer feedback and refining their ideas.
To enhance the learning experience and provide a cultural context, the course will incorporate a guided cultural visit within Čakovec and Međimurje County. This visit will allow participants to explore local heritage sites, sustainable initiatives, or eco-conscious organizations, drawing inspiration and practical examples for integrating cultural elements and sustainable practices into their collaborative projects.
Tentative schedule:
Day 1: Introduction to the European Dimension in Education
Day 2: Embracing cultural diversity in the classroom
Day 3: Collaborative tools and cultural exploration
Day 4: Project-based learning for a global classroom
Day 5: Assessment and future integration
The classes typically run from 9 in the morning to 2 in the afternoon, with the afternoon and evening reserved for self-reflection and individual study. However, the course schedule may be adjusted to accommodate the preferences of the participants and the availability of instructors or external learning locations. Participants will receive the finalized schedule well in advance, allowing ample time for preparation and planning.
Learning outcomes:
The participants will be able to: