LEONARDO DA VINCI
Modularization of the automotive study process by e-environment AUTOSTUDY
Thematic area, sector: E-environment, innovative approach to study process Duration: 2008 – 2010
R1 Modular curriculum The curriculum consists of study modules from System Engineering and Automotive Engineering sections. The curriculum was produced in electronic and printed version. Considering the target group, the curriculum is published in French as a printed version and in French and English as an electronic version. The curriculum is a supplement to the Interstudy (predecessor) project curriculum.
R2 The robotic and automotive study HomeLab kit The HomeLab toolkit is a set of interconnected modules and arrangements. The main module is a microcontroller with a motherboard, supplemented with voltage measurement devices and a handy box. The ARM-CAN kit is intended for the high level algorithm and car network teaching. The kit is based on the state-of-the-art ARM Cortex M3 controller and supports many peripherals. The kit includes two controller boards, one user interface and a programmer. The second kit is an AVR-CAN kit, based on the same mobility concept but has a different purpose.
R3 The e-platform The e-platform is a combination of a distance lab, home lab support centre and curriculum management (i.e. learning path creation). The distance lab (denoted as DistanceLab) is an interface to access different equipment or lab machines. The site is fitted with a web camera and a server, which communicates with the equipment nodes. New interfaces were developed during the project, adding the universal LabView interface.
Coordinator: Tallinn University of Technology, Department of Mechatronics, Estonia Contact person: Raivo Sell Con tacts: Ehitajate tee 5, Tallinn, Estonia, Phone: +372 6203201, E -mail: [email protected] Project homepage: http://project.roboticlab.eu/autostudy Partners: Estonia, Germany , Finland, France
LEONARDO DA VINCI
Modern Shared Robotic Environment - MoRobE
Thematic area, sector: E-content development, professional engineering education Duration: 2009 – 2011
R1 Curriculum module for practical mechatronics and computer science training The curriculum module is a set of courses with full methodology and supplementary material. The methodology includes e-learning activities, practical hands-on training with the support of an innovative Home-Lab, exercises, teacher support and examination procedure.
R2 Network of Excellence The Network of Excellence (NoE) is a supportive environment with full pedagogical material for collaboration work and teaching about microcontrollers in mechatronics and computer sciences courses. NoE is based on a wiki system with ready to use tasks and exercises.
R3 Distance Lab The Distance Lab is an interface which enables to integrate a very wide range of laboratory equipment into the system, thus providing access to a particular machine over the Internet. New functionality is also added, enabling to define new distance labs and equipment in the labs.
R4 Virtual Lab The Virtual Lab is a virtualized microcontroller system, based on the Home Lab Kit. Its main feature is emulating the behaviour of a microcontroller and hardware modules without the need of real hardware.
R5 Study Material The study material is a collection of full methodology and learning situations for vocational schools.
Coordinator : Bochum University of Applied Sciences, Germany. Sven Seiler, Lennershof str. 140, D-44801 Bochum, Germany, Phone: +49 234 10334, E-mail: sven.seiler@hs -bochum.de Contact person : Raivo Sell, T allinn University of Technology Contacts: Ehitajate tee 5, Tallinn, Estonia, Phone: +372 6203201 , E-mail: [email protected] Project homepage : www.morobe.de Partners : Estonia, Germany, Finland
LEONARDO DA VINCI
Europe for Teachers Professional Development Culture and Traditions of Cookery
Thematic area, sector: Staff Mobility and experience exchange in Vocational Education, Students Mobility and practice abroad Duration: 2009 – 2010
The goal of VETPRO is to raise the quality and attractiveness of vocational education and training. Cooperation between vocational schools provides opportunity to improve teaching methodology and put into practice various pedagogic approaches in planning learning process. Project stimulates teachers’ professional development, creative work and personal growth.
The IVT projects support participants in practical training, in acquisition and the use of knowledge, skills and facilitate personal development. Creativity, cooperative skills are essential and applied to all spheres of life and are essential in any profession, and practice in another country is a great way to get these skills. Speaking about VETPRO project, the result is new e-learning experience, new methods regarding a cooks course.
The mobility of students gives them a new experience, growth of knowledge and professional skills.
Coordinator: Riga Food Producers Vocational School , Latvia Contact person: Ilze Locmane Contacts: Riga Food Producers Vocational School, E -mail: [email protected] , Phone: +37129228524 Partners: VETPRO partners: Hotelschool Maastricht NL, SOS&SOU Policka, Serbia IVT partner: Escola de Ho telaria e Turismo de Lisboa, Portugal
LEONARDO DA VINCI
Swedish Table
Thematic area, sector : Catering and serving customers Duration: 01.03. – 18.07.2009
The project aim was to improve the quality of service in catering sector especially in laying and serving “Swedish” table. There were 3 partners in di fferent countries: Lithuania, Finland and Germany where training was organized. During the project 8 students from Valmiera Food Produce Vocational School went for four weeks practise to acquire skills and abilities in the catering service. Students broadened their horizons, raised their self-estimation, advanced English and German, learned about Finnish, Lithuanian and German traditions and culture. The placement was accomplished into two periods in 2009. After the project students continued studying or started to work. Information about project is shared in the photo posters, on the meetings with the school students and teachers, as well as in practise locations of the students. The popularity of the school in Vidzeme has risen after this project.
Coordinator: Valmiera Food Produce Vocational School , Latvia Contact person: Mārīte Grīnberga Contacts: Ausekļa Street 25B, Valmiera, LV-4201, Latvia, Phone: +371 64207535, E-mail: [email protected] Partners: Pori College, Finland; SALO+PARTNER BERUFLICHE BILDUNG , Germany; Regional Educati onal Centre of Utena, Lithuania
LEONARDO DA VINCI
Development of professional skills of students trained for the profession of butcher by applying technologies and experience of EU countries
Thematic area, sector: Food industry Duration: 2008 – 2009
The target group of the project was Utena Regional Vocational Training Centre and Kaunas Food Industry School butcher, meat processors, food industry worker and food organizer students. The project initiator and coordinator is Utena Regional Vocational Training Centre. In addition, Kaunas Food Industry School participated in the project. The host organizations were: 1. Porin ammattiopisto in Finland; 2. Valmieras Pārtikas ražotāju vidusskola, in L atvia. The project started on 1 August, 2008 and ended on 31 July, 2009. The three-week students internship was organized in two streams: stream 1 - 10 meat processors and food industry staff students went to Porin ammattiopisto, in Finland from 21 September, 2008 to 11 October, 2008; stream 2 - 8 meat processors and food industry staff students went to Valmieras P ārtikas ražotāju vidusskola, in Latvia from 29 March, 2009 to 11 April, 2009.
Results: The project helped participants to master their professional knowledge and practical application of meat processing. The students were able to work with the most modern equipment used in the food industry, learned how to cut carcasses according to European standards, to produce semi-finished products and prepare them for sale. During the placement in Finland, the students cut horse meat and game. It was a new experience not only for students but also for the teacher methodologist - Viktorija Baltuskiene. Project participants received Europass certificates showing their professional achievements. The project helped improve foreign languages – English, Finnish and Latvian; to improve knowledge and practical speaking skills. The participants' horizons expanded. They lived and worked for three weeks in foreign countries where they got familiar with the culture of the countries visited and studied the language, went sightseeing to Finland and Latvia. The students met and communicated with the foreign students, not only with those countries which were visited, but also with students from other countries. The students from Latvia also visited the Pori College and had a similar placement. The project participants learned to live and work in a team that will help them adapt in society and the labour market. The students gained international mobility, living and working abroad experience. The project has contributed to the popularization of butcher specialty among students because the recent popularity of this profession among the students was very low.
Coordinator: Utena Regional Centre of Vocational Education, Lithuania Contact person: Nijole Gailešienė Contacts: Aukštaičių str. 5. Utena, Lithuania, Phone: +370 38969444, E -mail: [email protected] , Project homepage: www.utenosrpmc.lt/node/550/ Partners: Lithuania, Finland, Latvia LEONARDO DA VINCI
Improvement of professional skills of young artists of Janis Rozentā ls Riga Art High school in the European art space
Thematic area, sector: Art, visual communication, visual plastic art Duration: 14.08. – 09.12.2009.
The mobility project “Improvem ent of professional skills of young artists of Jā nis Rozent āls Riga Art High school in the European art space” was promoted and coordinated by Janis Rozent āls Riga Art High school. 7 students in three flows had a placement from 19.10.2009. till 15.11.2009 in three different European countries (Great Britain, Finland, and Estonia). Three students had their practical training at Plymouth College of Art, in Great Britain in the field of graphics, multimedia and video, two students specializing in visual communication art specialties at Paasikivi Opisto, in Finland, but two more young people, specializing in visual plastic art, at Tartu Art School, in Estonia. The objective of project was to improve the professional competences of Janis Rozent āls Riga Art High school students in European art space. The applicants in practice applied the received theoretical and academicals knowledge, worked out their qualification works easier. The project has helped to compare their skills and widen them in a broader scale. The project promoted art education development in Europe and ensured the international cooperation on the EU`s level. The results of the project have been summarized and recorded in photos and videos and are used during training process. New skills have been obtained in graphics, multimedia, video specialties. The participants have had an excellent opportunity to know European art space, and cultural features, European dimension better. During the project all participants created also art works in the chosen specialty with the theme “I – in European art space”. The result of the project is art work exhibition “I – in European art space” at Janis Rozent āls Riga Art High school, which was opened January 18, 2010. The project had a positive impact on the participants, and it has stimulated the involvement of the students in further cooperation projects with educational art institutions in other EU countries. The project has received continuation – the students of the receiving partner schools have visited Latvia and have gained an experience here.
Coordinator: Janis Rozent āls Riga Art High school , Latvia Contact person: Inese Pi ņķe Contacts: Sreet Hāmaņa 2a, Rīga, LV 1007, Latvia, Phone: +371 67601783, +371 28397607, E mail: [email protected] Project homepage: http://www.jrrmv.lv/89/219/ Partners: Plymouth College of Art, United Kingdom; Paasikivi Opisto, Finland; Tartu Art School, Estonia
LEONARDO DA VINCI
Processing of aromatic plants
Thematic area, sector: Farming, entrepreneurial activity, organic products Duration: 28.08. – 22.09.2008.
The owner of the farm “Janavas” Anta Kučere during her Leonardo da Vinci internship obtained new skills in processing aromatic plants and producing creams from natural raw materials without using any preservatives. Obtained skills and knowledge as well as financial support from European Union were used to make cream production unit in old barn and purchase special aromatic plants distiller . Anta Kučere is now successfully managing her small business already for two years and producing her own face cream “Beāte”.
Coordinator: Farm “Janavas”, Latvia Contact person: Anta Kučere Contacts: Kok neses novads, Koknes pagasts, “Janavas”, Phone: +371 25994160, E-mail: [email protected] Partners: L'Herbier du Diois, France
LEONARDO DA VINCI
The methods used in pre-vocational training programs to identify realistic vocational options for clients with special needs
Thematic area, sector: Education (vocational training) – special needs Duration: 2010
Career choice is a difficult task for young people with disabilities and they often need support when making a vocational choice based on their abilities and interests. The aim of our project was to learn more about the methods and arrangements of vocational assessments used in different vocational rehabilitation centres in Europe. Through the mobility project, 11 different specialists (vocational trainers and managers) from Astangu Centre visited one of 3 vocational rehabilitation centres or schools for one week. They got new knowledge and experience in the following fields: Assessment methods and tools used to examine career orientated abilities and support clients’ career choices. Assessment systems Hamet 2 and Hamet e: practical tests that are based on realistic activities in specific trades and professions. Programs and processes in pre-vocational and vocational training for clients with special needs (incl. clients with brain injury). Implementation of the person-centred model and empowerment in vocational training.
Knowledge and experiences gained through this project can be used to improve vocational assessment, pre- vocational and vocational training for students with different disabilities in Astangu Vocational Rehabilitation Centre. As a result of the project the partnership between project partners and Astangu Vocational Rehabilitation Centre have further influences – the Theotokos Foundation has very high expertise in successful teaching methods for mentally disabled people and they are ready to organize a further training course for trainers in Astangu Centre in 2011. The BBW Waiblingen is a creator and licence holder for assessment systems Hamet 2 and Hamet e and they are ready for a common innovation project to adapt those tests for Estonia. All 11 participants in this project received a Europass Mobility as a certificate to prove knowledge and skills gained through the placements. All goals set in this project were reached and the participants and all partners are very pleased with the results.
Coordinator: Astangu Vocational Rehabilitation
Centre, Estonia Contact person: Liina Teesalu Contacts: Astangu 27, Tallinn, 13519, Estonia, Phone: +372 687 7212, E-mail: liina.teesalu@as tangu.ee Partners: Theotokos Foundation, Greece; Centre de Readaptation de Mulhouse, France; Berufsbildungswerk Waiblingen gGmbH, Germany
LEONARDO DA VINCI
Improvement of professional knowledge and skills about style and fashion
Thematic area, sector: Vocational education Duration: 04.01. – 31.05.2010.
The quality of vocational education fundamentally depends on close ties with the labor market at different levels. Preparation for the labor market needs is a prerequisite for employment in future. This project were ensure students' professional knowledge, skills development, expanding their foreign language skills and encourage personal growth. The aim of the project: promote practical knowledge and skills development and acquainted with different technologies, promote development of communication skills in dealing with customers, promote their personal growth for better integrating into the labor market, strengthen communication and foreign language skills in multicultural environment.
School was create new links with Kokkola Kauppaopisto in Finland, and will continue cooperation with Klaipeda siuvimo ir paslaugu verslo mokykla in Lithuania, and Handwerksammer Frankfurt (Oder) in Germany. During the 3 weeks together 20 students were have a practice in workshops and were have the possibilities for clients’ service in saloons. The students were seeing if their acquired professional knowledge, skills and real world job skills meet the requirements of the market. Students were expanding their vocational skills, by tapping into foreign modern technology, the newest fashion trends, and the European Union’s qualification requirements. Each of participants recei ved EUROPASS MOBILITY document after practice. The implementation of the project for Riga Style and Fashion Vocational school is required to have an opportunity for students actively engage in participation, to develop practical skills. The students will see if their acquired professional knowledge, skills and real world job skills meet the requirements of the market. The project will promote effective exchange of practical experience and personal growth. Students will expand their vocational skills, by tapping into foreign modern technology, the newest fashion trends, and the European Union’s qualification requirements. The students have the opportunity to develop their professional and social competence.
Coordinator: Riga Style and Fashion Vocational school , Latvia Contact person: Vita Grinbauma Contacts: Phone: +371 67533278, E mail: 34avskola@e apollo.lv Project homepage: http://www.rsm skola.lv/pub/index.php?id=111 Partners: Kokkola Kauppaopisto, Finland; Klaipeda siuvimo ir paslaugu verslo mokykla, Lithuania; Handwerks ammer Frankfurt (Oder), Germany
LEONARDO DA VINCI
Development of teamwork skills for teachers to acquire professional knowledge and to ensure teaching quality and prestige
Thematic area, sector: VETPRO Duration: 01.08.2008. – 31.07.2009.
Having the aim to develop and plan the professional career in the EU cultural background, it is necessary to raise the ability of young people to work in a team and adapt the changing requirements of labor exchange to have more as well as new professional specializations. Such ongoing processes as creating new educa tional methods, developing students’ professional career teaching and planning, motivates long-life learning. The objective of the project is to develop team-work skills, gaining new competence and ensuring both quality and prestige of the professional teaching. Vocational training specialists have gained new competence in entrepreneurship skills development and in applying the teamwork organizing methods. Teachers developed a model of “Career Club” (CC) activity, focusing on career planning motivatio n and teamwork skills development. CC activity model is presented in the Republican Methology Committee, in the Republican School students Councils, and the Republican Body workshops. CC's business model – teamwork organization, methodological recommendations as well as its integration into the educational process is presented for the Republican Group of Methodology during the group meeting. Ready CC program and methodical recommendations are proposed to include into the school’s annual program of activities. Pro ject results was published in the newspaper “Centriukas” and established in both Alytus and Vilnius Vocational training institutions websites. The Career Club is set. There was held the Republican event on the subject “Career Today and Tomorrow“, which was attended by the Member of Parliament Ms. Vilija Aleknaitė - Abramikienė and some teachers and students from several Vocational training institutions. CC activity achievements are introduced to the Association of Innovative Vocational Training during the Republican Conference of Establishments, what resulted in expansion of inter-school co-operation network. With the aim to develop entrepreneurial skills KK members and teachers collaborate with M. Riomeris University - take part in the training program “Leadership Academy” and in the seminars of “Swedbank”, AB. Currently the training development program for teachers based on CC operations is being worked out.
Coordinator: Vilnius Vocational Training Centre for Business Service Specialists, Lithuani a Contact person: Daiva Motiejūnaitė Contacts: Didlaukio str. 84, LT-08303 Vilnius, Lithuania, Phone: +370 675 55834, E -mail: [email protected] Project homepage: http://www.pvdprc.lt/index.php?option=com_content &view=article&id=165:komandinio -darbo-tobulinimas - jant -naujmpetencij&catid=16:leonardo-da- vinci&Itemid=48 Partners: Lithuania, Finland, German, United Kingdom
LEONARDO DA VINCI
BE CuLT eXTeND
Thematic area, sector: Language learning Duration: 2008 – 2010
The aim of the project is to transfer a language learning tool that was originally developed by the previous Becult project. The tool is a learning platform suitable for trainees who leave for a placement abroad, supporting the training of basic necessary skills. It is easy to use the platform in other vocational areas (e.g. tourism and retail), and it allows for the learning of more languages, using the same learning approach and an already developed infrastructure. The partnership consist of all former Becult project members (FI, NL, DE, IT, FR) with an addition of three new partners (EE, ES, TR). All partners are vocational institutions and networks operating in many vocational areas. The main outcome is a final online learning platform where the user is able to learn nine different languages (Levels A1- A2/B1) in various professional contexts and to learn in a playful way. The vocational sectors involved are cooking, service, hotel reception, tourism and retail. The sustainability of language learning is secured with the promotion of the European Language Portfolio on the platform. The target groups are low-skilled trainees and workers in the aforementioned sectors. The total amount of new multimedia learning content is: approx. 150 videos, 90 games, 360 exercises. After using the platform, the person will have better language skills and cultural knowledge useful for a stay abroad. This is likely to increase the chances of personal development and thereby also increasing the chance of mobility of these target groups, mainly focusing on the European priority “Raising competence levels of groups at risk” but also the priority “Developing the learning environment”.
Coordinator: Kiezküchen Ausbildungs gGmbH, Germany.
Mats Landgren, Heinrich -Mann-Str. 31, 13156 Berlin, Phone: +49 30 485 22 333, www.bildungsmarkt.de Contact pe rson: Hele Liiv-Tellmann, Tallinn Service School, Estonia Contacts: Majaka 2, 11412 Tallinn, Estonia, Phone: +37256941100, www.teeninduskool.ee Project homepage: www.becult.org Partners: Germany, Estonia, Finland, France, Italy, Netherlands, Turkey, Spain
LEONARDO DA VINCI
Ready! Study! Go!
Thematic area, sector: Language learning Duration: 2005 – 2008
The project planned a virtual e-learning system for language and cultural training before an on-the-job learning period. The online material was developed by teams of vocational and language teachers. This enabled development of language teaching integrated with vocational content. The project ended on January 31, 2008. The objective of the project was to improve the cross-cultural skills of the people involved in vocational education as well as the cooperation between work life and educational institutions. The language and cultural training material is intended for use by vocational students preparing for their on- the-job learning period, on-the-job learning coaches and companies that have international employees. The material packages consist of 40 hours of general language training and 80 hours of sector specific language and culture training. The language and cultural training material was developed for hotel, restaurant, tourism and bakery sectors. The target groups during the project were language teachers, vocational teachers, trainers, coordinators and other specialists.
Coordinator: OMNIA , Finlan d. Seija Heikkinen, Kirkkokatu 16, 02070 Espoo, Phone: +358 03515987
Contact person: Hele Liiv-Tellmann, Tallinn Service School, Estonia
Contacts: Majaka 2, 11412 Tallinn, Phone: +37256941100, www.teeninduskool.ee Project homepage: www.readystudygo-project.net Partners: Finland, Estonia, Germany, France, Italy
LEONARDO DA VINCI
Ability not Disability in Employment/Ability not Disability in Workplace
Thematic area, sector: Employment people with disabilities Duration: 2005 – 2010
The reason of the project is to decrease the discrimination of people with disabilities in employment. According to the data from the Europe Statistics people with disabilities are at least 17% of the EU working age population; only 40% of them are employed, whereas this rate is 64.2% for the non-disabled. It is not corresponding to the European Employment Strategy objectives of reducing unemployment and fighting against social exclusion and EU Disability Action Plan and practical implementation of the United Convention on the rights of Disabled People. Taking these arguments as a basis, the idea of pilot project (hereafter PP) is to develop managers' and trainers' competence and skills to employ disabled people. For achieving this aim PP offer to provide the employers, human resources managers, recruitment companies, trainers and students in this field with special educational programme, module of increasing qualification and over qualification – modern innovated useful distance education course and support methodical materials. Materials/products of the pilot project are: Distance Education Course “Employment of People with Disabilities” (EN, FR, GR, LV) ISBN 9 984-18-340- 8. - 178 p. Annex to Distance Education Course, ISBN 9 984-18-202-9, 52 p.; Tutor’s Notes to Distance Education Course “Employment of People with Disabilities” ISBN 9 984-18- 212-6, 56 p. Handbook for Employers “Employment of People with Disabilities” (EN, FR, GR, LV) ISBN 9 984-18-292-4, 66 p.
Coordinator: Information System Management Institute, Latvia Contact person: Marga Živitere
Contacts: Street Ludzas 91, Riga, LV-1003,
Latvia, Phone: +371 67100589, E-mail: [email protected] Project homepage: www.andiw.isma.lv Partners: Valter Fissamber & Associates LTD, Greece; Finance & Médiation SA, Luxembourg; ENTENTE UK, United Kingdom; University of Latvia and Latvian Traders’ Association , Latvia LEONARDO DA VINCI
Transfer of Innovative Methodology for Assessment of VET Teachers’ Prior Learning (TIMA-Balt)
Thematic area, sector: Vocational Education Duration: 01.11.2007. – 31.01. 2010.
TIMA Balt project was devoted for transferring APL (assessment of prior learning) experience in vocational teacher education from Finland to Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. The similar situation is in the three Baltic countries inspired the idea of the project – there in Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia are VET teacher education programs, which are modular based, but none of them had the possibility to recognize the prior learning of teachers. The main target groups of the project were VET teacher educators, VET researchers, VET policy makers and VET teachers themselves. The following results were achieved:
Results: R1: Study of APL in VET teacher education systems – survey, giving the comparative overview of the needs and experiences of Baltic countries (Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia) in applying APL in local contexts, in VET teacher education systems. R2: APL methodology. R3: Study module for APL evaluators training – programme description and handbook for APL assessors. R4: Trained group of APL assessors – 10 assessors from Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia trained by Finnish donor partners. R5: Introductory module for APL candidates – handbook for APL candidates. R6: Special issue of the scientific journal “Quality of Higher Education”.
Coordinator: Vytautas Magnus University, Centre for Quality of Studies , Lithuania Contact person: Au šra Fokienė Contacts: K. Donelaičio str. 58, LT 44248 Kaunas, Lithuania , Phone: +370 37327973, E mail: a.fokiene @skc.vdu.lt Project homepage : www.vdu.lt/tima balt Partners : Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Finland
GRUNDTVIG
A sound mind in a sound body
Thematic area, sector: Healthy lifestyle, adult education Duration: 2008 – 2010
During the two project years we had theoretical lectures and practical courses: In Estonia: Healthy eating. Methods of learning. The water we drink and the film Water Message. Estonian sauna traditions. In Turkey: Olive oil and Mediterranean diet. Turkish sauna traditions. Radon hot water thermal and Turkish bath. In Poland: Lifelong learning competency (CeCe) and its main features. Levels of competency, training methodology and methods, training materials. Education for adults, LLL possibilities. Artistic education among adults. E-learning for adults. How to teach adults computing skills. Between seminars in partner countries, participants took part in Nordic walking, water aerobics, gymnastics, cycling, skiing, etc. Participants observed their health condition and filled in questionnaires and a health calendar. In order to get to know each other’s traditions, habits, lifestyle and culture, we organized guided trips to partner countries during seminars. All participants took part in English language courses and could practice the language during international seminars. Results: Learners’ self -confidence, motivation and knowledge of a healthy lifestyle were increased. Knowledge of partner countries and their culture, as well as language and IT knowledge was increased. Products: DVD in four languages, videos, many photos, newspaper articles, journals. Collection of newspaper articles, project prog ress descriptions, minutes, photos, and participants’ feedback in Estonian.
Project coordinator: Pühajärve Education
Society, Estonia
Contact person: Ene Kelder Contacts: Phone: +372 5228000, E-mail: [email protected] Project homepage: http://rahvakool.page.tl Partners: Poland, Turkey
GRUNDTVIG
Creative Pathways in Adult Education
Thematic area, sector: Adult Education, aiming at providing new learning opportunities for all adult learners Duration: 2009 – 2011
Project aims at creating good quality unconventional learning methodologies, capable of constantly renewing the basic skills of E. U. citizens and enabling them to deal with the challenges and developing technologies of the changing world. This partnership brings together Learners, Educators and Adult Education Organisations from different geographical areas of Europe in order to help them identify and try innovative learning methods and good practices. They exchange experience, methodology, and cultural aspects and learn from each other and cooperate in the development of new teaching approaches in Adult Education. We focus on the similarities and the differences of the participating countries in order to agree on common ways of teaching Adults, and decide on an educational tool for adult education, which motivates adults to actively participate in life-long education in a European dimension through workshops in Art. Using creative activity areas (dance, handicraft, and the art of communicative behaviour – eg. communication, etiquette, oratory) the partnership stimulates motivation to learn and gain new competencies, turns workshops into a wonderful means of self-expression, communication, making learning useful and pleasant perspective hobby, which also satisfies one’s curiosity, creating innovative teaching methods for adults, using Art as a means of Education. Tangible results - a travelling e-exhibition “Intercultural space: I watch, learn and teach”, a cognitive -educational film with the same, a “Blog”, and an E -Portfolio. Intangible results - the opportunity to acquire and develop 4 main competencies of adult learning: Personal (self- cognition, self-confidence, self-esteem, self-expression); Educational (creative thinking, flexibility of thinking, life long learning); Social (communication and collaboration, team work); Professional (knowledge of specific areas, competencies, skills, attitude towards learning quality) – feedback on these competencies will be provided in the form of questionnaires. Hold 3 common workshops according to project activity areas, applying unconentional teaching methods: Adults, who learn dancing, have prepared a common dance, using different, and their own, dance learning methods. This common dance unveils particularity of dance culture in each country. The emphasis has been put on circular dance as a means to promote cooperation and a culture of peace. Adult students of handicraft are going to organize a common workshop, during which, they are going to create personal works, using their own learning techniques, and unconventional methods of learning to create. Those works will be presented at instantaneous exhibition for the partners. The emphasis will be on art and the environment, having in mind the sustainable use and reuse of resources and the artists of each participating country as examples of this concern. During the common workshop, adults, learning communicative behaviour, are going to prepare a collaborative project presentation, using IT and speech habits. The end products will include: evaluation reports (transnational meeting and summative) project website in English DVD with educational material from each partner travelling exhibition “Intercultural space” .
Coordinator: Alytaus Jaunimo centras, Lithuania. Tatjana Zacharova, Tvirtoves Street – Number 3, Alytus, LT- 62116, E-mail: [email protected] , Phone: +370 611 30321 Contact person: Laima Indrike, Association of Latvian Rural Women Contacts: Talcenieki-8, Skaistkalne, Vecumnieku novads, LV- 3924, Latvia, Phone: +371 26346250, E -mail: [email protected] Project homepage: http://web.me.com/aspiretrust/Main_SIte/Welcome.h tml Partners: Viesoji istaiga Alytaus jaunimo centras, Lithuania; The Aspire Trust Ltd, United Kingdom; Euroform RFS, Italy; Associacao Portuguesa de Educacoa Ambiental, Portugal; ΑΧΑΪΚΟ ΙΝΣΤΙΤΟΥΤΟ ΕΚΠΑΙ ΕΥΣΗΣ ΕΝΗΛΙΚ Ν , Greece; Newham college of further education, United Kingdom
GRUNDTVIG
Feel integrated
Thematic area, sector: Integration (migrants, unemployed) Duration: 2008 – 2010
The partnership of the project "Feel Integrated" was based on the competences of each partner, and aimed to contribute to solving problems that the migrants (target public) as well as the unemployed face. In each of the participating regions, the causes and effects of the problems met by the targeted public were studied, in terms of the social integration and access to employment. The problems faced by this public were identified and studied by the partnership, in order to determine the common subjects that must be considered, in the perspective of the integration in a European model. Tools were developed, tested and validated by the partners, and the main production was editing a guide of a “Successful Integration”. This guide is meant for the professionals who accompany adults who are in difficulty. This guide allows the targeted public to learn and understand their national and European contexts, their rights and obligations (especially their rights to receive trainings and work), to evaluate their personal level with comparison to the 8 key skills defined by the European parliament and council in 2006. This work also included mobilities, which were intended for professionals and learners, and allowed them to observe and exchange ideas on the different contexts and practices.
Results and products: 1. Diagnostic tool. The tool allowed analyzing each organisation, their networks, local policies with regards to the target groups and the obstacles faced by those target groups in terms of social and professional integration (4 documents). 2. Guide of a Successful Integration. This guide is used by professionals in charge of accompanying the public who have difficulty in their integration. This tool is organised into 2 parts and several subparts to be constructed with the learner individually. 3. Newsletters. 4 pages of periodic information about the progress and results of the project.
Coordinator: Développement Méditerranée, France. Elena Blanco, Phone : +336 33105898, E-mail: [email protected] Contact person: Marika Katarina Arendia Elita von Wolsky , European Project Management Associ ation Portapolis Contacts: Linnu tee 21, 11317 Tallinn, E-mail: [email protected] Project homepage: www.concordiacluster.eu/portapolis Partners: France, Estonia, Italy, Greece, Turkey
GRUNDTVIG
Implementation of E-portfolio in Language Learning for Adults
Thematic area, sector: Foreign language teaching and learning Duration: 2007 – 2009
The aim of the project was to analyze all possible ways of implementation of general European Framework and European Language Portfolio into the process of adult language learning, analyze the methods by which adult language learners can self- assess and monitor their language learning progress during their life-long learning process, prepare the environment for practical implementation of the project in partner institutions and all interested organizations. In the first stage of the project the partners analyzed their target groups, distribution of learners according to their age, language knowledge levels, ambitions and requirements; prepared questionnaires and made surveys on the learners' motivation to learn foreign languages, their interests and expectations. In the second stage self-assessment sheets were prepared for different levels, the partners performed a wide range of activities disseminating the project in various available ways: issuing posters, information leaflets, bookmarks, organizing seminars for fellow teachers and organizers of adult education, arranging e-portfolio days and instructing the learners how to create their own e-portfolios. During partner meetings the participants of the project shared their ideas of more efficient implementation of the e- portfolio and different ways of teaching English in multicultural environment. The partners were also able to learn about the different cultural peculiarities of their countries which affect language teaching and learning. The project was useful both from the linguistic, methodological and cultural points of view. It encouraged the participants to go deeper into analysis of the constituent parts of the e-portfolio and analyze the situation of their institution under the common European background. The final stage of the project, the international conference Multicultural Environment and E-Portfolio in language learning was aimed at summarizing the results of the work performed in the project in 2007-2009 and sharing the acquired experience with a wide circle of language teachers. Project results: design and testing of the English and German languages descriptors, project website renovation, research on learners’ motivation.
Coordinator: Escuela Oficial de Idiomas de Murcia, Spain. Belén Alcalde Sánchez, Avda. Miguel de Cervantes, S/N3009 Murcia, Spain, Phone: +34 968291309, +34 968291308, E-mail: [email protected] Contact person: Irena Kupcinskiene, Alytus College, Lithuania Contacts: Merkines g. 2b, 62252 Alytus, Lithuania; Phone: +370 315 79 342, E -mail: [email protected] Project homepage: http://www.community4you.de/de/referenzen/bildung - elearning/eu -grundtvig/index1.html; http://www.akolegija.lt/index_en.php?id=show&nr=233 ; http://www.akolegija.lt/?id=show&nr=60 Partners: Spain, Germany, Lithuania
GRUNDTVIG
Women Innovating Networking
Thematic area, sector: Tourism, culture heritage Duration: 01.08.2009. – 31.07.2011
The aim of the project is creating the network of training and cooperation to promote and motivate entrepreneurship in the sector of services (tourism, the potential of culture heritage).
Target audience of the project are inhabitants of the Daugavpils area (Latvia), mostly women which are motivated to develope their own entrepreneurship, to build cooperation, gain knowledge, skills and experience in organizing tourism services, using the potenial of rural culture heritage and native traditions.
The acitvities of the project: teaching of the English, seminars about entrepreneurship and culture marketing, gathering and generalization of information about the society and culture of the partnership countries, project meetings in partnership countries.
Coordinator: Fundation Paideia Galiza, Spain. Dolores Sánchez, Phone: + 34 981 81 70, E -mail: [email protected] Contact person: Ināra Mukāne, Daugavpils Area Culture administration, Latvia Contacts: Phone: +371 654 76832, +371 29191840, E -mail: [email protected] Partners: Training2000, Italy; “West Midlands Tomorrow” (AK), Powiatowy Urzad Pracy, Poland; Administration of Utena District, Lithuania; Zentrum fur integration und Bildung, Germany GRUNDTVIG
ECULT How to Get Cultural and Environmental Elements Strengthen Rural Tourism
Thematic area, sector: Tourism, culture Duration: 2007 – 2009
The aim of the project was the exchange of experiences in the tourism industry and successful models of vocational education of geographically and/or socially disadvantaged people, especially women in economically weaker rural regions. The project also aims to strengthen rural tourism by utilizing local cultural issues and environmental factors. An active exchange of experiences helped people gain new opportunities for assuring their employability and personal fulfilment as well as to help them become active citizens.
Results of the Project An exchange of training specialists and learners and an opportunity to gain new experiences. For example, cooperating in the area of adult learning: Estonian learners were involved in a colouring course in Kymi Region, Finland. A combined training programme portfolio with editing and updating possibilities. The development of a teacher continuing training programme (for instance “Collecting herbs in the nature”, “Colouring Material with Natural Colours”, “Preparation of an Exhibition, Exhibition in a Foreign Country”). Teachers renewed their training methods after the experience they received (through lectures, seminars, presentations, reports, group works, and international seminars). New packages of tourism products were created. The packages consist of different opportunities for enjoying nature tourism, guiding, catering, accommodation, food preservation, handicraft and culture trips. These packages were created jointly with entrepreneurs/stakeholders of each area. New opportunities were developed for international marketing of local entrepreneurships. Articles in newspapers and magazines. Brochures and CDs, links on websites, an exhibition. Project website, where the progress, reports, photos and positive experiences of the project are shared.
Coordinator: HT -Metka Oy, Finland Contact perso n: Sirje Vällmann, NGO ETNA, Estonia, Phone: +372 56136255, E -mail: [email protected] Project homepage: http://www.ht- metka.fi/ecult.htm Partners: Association - Institute of Economic Analyses, Diagnoses and Forecast , Poland
GRUNDTVIG
EDUCAP - Educational Capacity of Learners
Thematic area, sector: Strategy for stimulating, promoting adult learners’ demand for learning, guidance, counselling, information or other support services, experimentation with new pedagogical approach (es) Duration: 2007 – 2009
The reasons of non-participation and/or early drop out of certain groups in adult education can vary, but they are often related to lack of educational capacity of learners with respect to a determined learning programme. ‘Educational capacity’ in this context can be defined as the currently developed potential in terms of the participants' motivation, abilities and learning experiences that are relevant for their access to, active participation in and processing of a specific training course or educational programme. All partners of this learning partnership were confronted with the challenge of adjusting programmes to the educational capacity of their target groups, directly or through their member organizations. As a result they acquired a lot of experience and knowledge on how to improve the access to and the alignment of educational programmes to specific target groups. The aim of the project was to share and exchange this knowledge and experiences in order to increase the common knowledge and practice of the partners. A second aim was to produce - based on the existing practices and experiences - user-friendly instruments/tools for gauging and improving the educational capacity of the (potential) learner with respect to the access to and the alignment of specific learning programmes. The instruments were developed and tested by the partners with close involvement of the learners. Training of the partners and dissemination of the interim and final results on a European level were integral part of the project. Results and products: pedagogical material, tool box with 5 instruments for measuring educational capacity.
Coordinator: SoCiuS – Support Point For Non-formal Adult Educ ation, Belgium. Theo Van Malderen, Gallaitstreet 86 bus 4, 1030 Brussels, Belgium, Phone: (+32) (15) 31 61 08, [email protected] , www.socius.be Contact person : Dangiras Kacinskas, Lithuanian Association of Adult Education (LAAE), Lithuania Contacts: Gelezinio vilko g. 12-439, 01112 Vilnius, Lithuania, Phone: +370 34731157, E-mail: [email protected] , www.lssa.smm.lt Project homepage : http://www.lssa.smm.lt/index.php?id=123 Partners : Belgium, Portugal, Lithuania
GRUNDTVIG
Green Fingers
Thematic area, sector: Nature, green “thinking”, cooperation between generations Duration: August 2009 – July 2011
The basic theme Green Fingers will use the theme of Gardening as an educational activity to attract adult learners, especially older people, to carry out practical work with children (for example in school gardens). The idea is to generate new interest in learning by the adult participants.
The work Point Europa (UK) will: Create a project website, to publish material from each mobility and general results Prepare a Dissemination Plan, and coordinate the activities required Prepare an Evaluation Form for the activities Prepare a draft Project Portfolio, where Mobility participants can record their activity
All partners (Latvia, Hungary, France, and Italy) will: Set up a “Green Fingers Group”, bringing together trainers, learners, gardening experts and those working with children. Find a community space where it is possible to carry out gardening work with children. Could be a school, a park, some public or private land. Use this space to carry out local group activities, and to host the Mobility’s. Host a visit by the other partners, including practical work in the garden Organise travel to other partners for 12 people (the application tells us: 3 staff, 9 learners) Obtain information about training opportunities available in their areas: Formal courses, leading to qualifications Informal courses Open Days and exhibitions, where participants can lean from others Local organisations and associations Online and distance learning opportunities Recommendations on books and other materials This information must be published as a simple booklet Report progress to the coordinator and National Agencies Organise dissemination (publicity) activities, and report these to the coordinator. These activities must start at the beginning of the project! Partners may choose t to arrange an event (Open Day at their new garden space?) to promote the project.
Coordinator: Association of Gulbene Agriculturists, Latvia. Aivija Krēsliņa, Phone: + 371 26345222, E -mail: [email protected] Contact person: Anita Birzniece, Youth club “Dems” Contacts: Phone: + 371 26698096, E-mail: [email protected] Partners: CESIE, Italy; Pistes-Solidaire, France; Diagonal, Hungary; Point Eiropa, United Kingdom
A Nordic – Baltic meetings in songs and dances
Thematic area, sector: Culture heritage Duration: 01.08.2009. – 30.09.2010.
The main idea of the project was to be involved in order to demonstrate all common, similar and different heritages of all par tners. Through the working process we wanted to broaden participants’ horizons, develop competences, promote mutual understanding and improve knowledge about different countries. Participants learned how to retain our individuality, respect differences and encourage tolerant attitudes towards other nations’ heritage. During the project we had three mobilities to each partner schools and one Nordplus camp: 1st mobility was in Finland, 2nd mobility was in Latvia, 3rd mobility was in Sweden, 4th mobility was a Nordplus camp on the Aland Islands.
The project was integrated in following subjects English, Social sciences, ICT, Music, Geography, Art, Sport, Handicrafts and mother tongue lessons. Teachers participated in discussions about culture heritage, educational systems and school management.
Our project results are: We have raised our schools capacity. We are interested and ready for the new projects. We have found innovative pedagogical methods in practice in class activities. Participants have increased students' respect and tolerance for other cultures and increased their own national self esteem; we have developed knowledge and understanding among people in Nordic Baltic. Children and staff have improved the skills how to present the results of own work, we have made new friendship. All partners are opened for new projects.
Products are: CDs, photo albums, presentations, puppets in national costumes, an art exhibition "Nordic and Baltic countries through my eyes", schools' performances to show: national costumes, folk dances and songs, musical instruments, fragments from historical and national literature.
Coordinator: Skujene Primary school , Latvia Contact persons: Anda Lukstiņa and Ilona Sopule Žēpere Contacts: Phone: +37129161391, +37126492937, E-mail: [email protected], silona@e- apollo.lv . Partners: Kristinelunds kolan, Sweden; Ketunmaan koulu, Finland
Supporting Newly Qualified Teachers through Collaborative Mentoring (NQT-COME)
Thematic area, sector: Teacher education and pedagogical methods Duration: 2009 – 2012
The NQT-COME project is organizing a series of seminars and workshops in 2009-2012, based on the comparative research done by the research and development network Newly Qualified Teachers in Northern Europe (NQTNE). The series of seven seminars and workshops for mentors, researchers and teacher educators will be circulated in the five participant counties: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Norway and Sweden. The seminars will be organized in collaboration with national teacher education institutions, municipalities, schools and teacher unions. The aim of the project is to promote professional learning of newly qualified teachers in the induction phase through developing systems of support. One of the most promising methods to promote new teacher's professional learning is mentoring in its various forms, including one-on-one mentoring, peer mentoring and group mentoring. The project focuses on sharing research-based evidence and best practices of mentoring through international collaboration.
The universities, teacher educators, municipalities, teachers, mentors and policy makers will benefit from: research-based knowledge of support systems for newly qualified teachers; innovative approaches to supporting newly qualified teachers’ professional learning; increasing international contacts to collaborate in the spirit of lifelong professional development of teachers.
The direct results will be the seminars and workshops held as activities of the project, as well as the electronic and printed materials (research templates, seminar/conference presentations and articles) prepared, presented and distributed by the project network.
Coordinator: Tallinn University Haapsalu College , Estonia Contact person: Mari Kerde Contacts: Lihula mnt 12, 90507, Haapsalu, Estonia, Phone: +372 4720249, E -mail: [email protected] Project homepage: http://ktl.jyu.fi/ktl/nqtne Partners: Tallinn University Haapsalu College, Haapsalu Primary School, Estonia; University of Jyväskylä, City of Oulu, Ci ty of Kokkola, City of Tampere, Finland; University of Gävle, Teacher Union, National Teacher Union, Sweden; University of Oslo, Norway; University College UCC, Busses School, Denmark
SOS Polar Bears!
Thematic area, sector: Climate issues Duration: 2009 - 2010
During the project „SOS Polar Bears!“ two groups from Finland, Harjavalta and Lithuania, Kursenai towns analyzed the process of changes in climate, its effect on people and their health, animals, plants. Questionnaires were prepared and inquiry of both towns inhabitants was carried out about the process of changes in climate, the data was summarized, compared and conclusions were drawn and introduced to towns communities. The group of young people from Finland and Lithuania enhanced and deepened their knowledge in natural science about the greenhouse effect, photochemical smog, acid rain, erosion of soil, decreasing of the ozone layer. The acquired knowledge, dangers and encouragement to save our environment and health was expressed in drawn comic-strips. The symbol of the project and the main hero of the comic-strips was the Polar Bear as a representative of endangered species affected by the changes in climate. During the project students also tried to know partner country‘s culture. Two exchange meetings have been organized in both countries - Lithuania and Finland. The information was produced in local mass media and in the UNESCO School net webpage. A MOODLE page was prepared where all materials on the project were uploaded. A report was provided to a national conference. As a result a one-school-year calendar was prepared and published.
Coordinator: Kursenai Laurynas Ivinskis gymnasium , Lithuania Contact person: Roma Albrikiene Contacts: V. Kudirkos g. 33, 81147 Kursenai, Lithuania, Phone: +370 41585845, E -mail: a.romute@ gmail.com, www.kursen ai.ivinskis.lm.lt Partners: Lithuania, Finland
Career Development Programs for Women in Science and Technology through Life Long Learning
Thematic area, sector: Career, education, science Duration: 01.09.2010. – 31.10.2012.
Purpose of the project
1) Conduct/provide new study courses of Continuing Education in Baltic countries for support of unemployed women in science and technology; 2) Provide science and technology related job information.
Project summary
In the knowledge –based society of twenty-first century national competitiveness largely depends on science and knowledge. As a key to the advancement of science and technology is the training and utilization of qualified science and technology human resources. Although Latvia and also Lithuania and Estonia rank relatively high among European Union members regarding education for women, just now unemployment is very high in these countries. There are 17 261 unemployed women with a higher education in Latvia (data of Employment Service, Latvia, 2009). We are going to work out and to propose the new study programs for women with a higher education which have not been represented in Baltics till now, likely, science communicator and science manager. Science communicator education will offer job training programs for re-employment to help highly educated, but career interrupted women in science and technology to re-enter the regional society and to establish more after-school science classes for low-income children and students in special schools with relatively fewer opportunities to learn science and technology. In addition to supporting women in science and technology ‘Latvian Women in Science’ will make a concerted effort with various other agencies and organizations to help socially-isolated people to get more chances of having science and technology education and enjoy science culture. Laboratory manager training will be aimed to support participants wishing to find employment in medium and large research centers. There is necessity for such Laboratory Managers in whose competence there are such skills as official document writing, accounting, statistics, preparation of business application etc.
Background/motivation for the project
Although Latvia ranks relatively high among European Union members regarding education for women, just now there are 17 261 unemployed women with a higher education, what is higher than unemployed men with a higher education – 8725. Totaly unemployed with a higher education in December of 2008 were 25 986, women - 61.3%, men - 38.7%; 30.06.2009. – women – 62.2%, men – 37.8%, 30.09.2009. Women – 66.0%, men -34.0%, but in 31.12.2009 – women – 66.4%, men – 33.6% (data of Employment Service of Latvia, 2009). Among unemployed with a higher education there are teachers of secondary school – 1545 and teachers of primary school – 815. The above mentioned served as a motivation to propose the study programs to the unemployed teachers.
Coordinator: Research Institute “Latvian Women in Science”, Latvia Contact person: Sandra Bērziņa Contacts: Street Ģertr ūdes 26-1, Riga, LV 1011, Latvia, Phone: + 371 67297666, E -mail: [email protected] Project homepage : www.cd-wisite.lv Partners: University of Aarhus, the Danish Centre for Studies in Research and Research Policy, Denmark; University of Vilnius, Faculty of Communication, Lithuania; Tartu Biotechnology Park, Estonia
NORDPLUS
Professional Development Workshops for Teachers - Sharing good practice
Thematic area, sector: Teaching quality, active teaching methods Duration: 2009 – 2011
The project aims to develop teachers’ professional skills and teaching quality. Teachers f rom 3 countries share and compare good practice of active teaching methods from different European countries. Through the project we aim to increase creativity, capability and awareness of teachers and develop teachers’ IT skills. We want to encourage and support teachers in developing and implementing methodologies and instruments, in order to increase the motivation of their students in studying and learning. Participants get to know the education systems and school environments of several European countries, noting all the differences and similarities. Professional Development Workshops are held in every partner school during 5 days. 4 teachers take part in workshops from every partner school. The first and the last project meetings will take place in Estonia. Outcomes of the project: Teaching quality in partner schools has increased through professional development workshops. Teachers use new active methods and techniques inspired by workshop experiences. Teachers create e-learning materials with web tools (LeMill, SlideShare, HotPotatoes etc.). A website is created using materials from project meetings, discussions and descriptions of good practice methods and actions. During workshops: Partners introduce their school systems. Teachers visit each other’ s lessons. Each foreign teacher carries out one creative workshop lesson using active learning methods. Teachers have a lecture on pedagogical or didactical topics and a discussion. Teachers have practical workshops on how to use web tools to create learning materials that could be used by a large community. Schools make short introductions of their countries on posters and a travelling exhibition will be put together during the first project meeting. The exhibition travels through all participating countries/schools during the project meetings. There are discussion sessions at the end of every workshop, where teachers evaluate their colleagues’ methods of teaching – there we jointly find out the best experiences and how to use them in the classroom – to reach a new level of quality.
Coordinator: Sõmeru Primary School , Estonia Contact person: Tiina Erala Contacts: Kooli 4, 44305 Sõmeru, lane -Virumaa, Estonia, E -mail: [email protected] Project homepage: http://professionalteachers.weebly.com Partners: Jelgava Elementary school no.3, Latvia; Reykjavik Korpuskóli, Iceland
NORDPLUS
Joining to Solve Global Problems (Multicultural Youth Solves Global Problems)
Thematic area, sector: Environmental issues Duration: 01.07.2009. – 01.11.2010.
Project goals: pay teenagers’ attention to global problems and help them in finding solutio ns; develop intercultural cooperation; enforce teachers’ experience exchange. Project stages: 1. Getting acquainted through e-mails and letters. 2. Meeting in Riga (February 2010). 3. Development of the project ideas (getting ready for the meeting in Oslo). 4. Meeting in Oslo (May 2010). 5. Compiling information, creating a leaflet and a CD about the project, making a website, providing the publicity through libraries and Internet resources. 6. Enclosing visit (October 2010).
Several peculiarities of the project helped students and teachers receive a real social benefit: Mixed cultures and ages; Diversity of students’ interests.
The project started with teachers’ and students’ correspondence and exchange of ideas. In February 30 Norwegian students and 3 teachers came to Riga where they participated in workshops, team-seminars, games, cultural programme. In May 30 Latvian students and 5 teachers travelled to Oslo to take part in future city games. Project materials were compiled; students and teachers wrote reflections and organized presentations. In October 2 Latvian teachers and 4 students went to Oslo on the enclosing visit. Results of the project: project logo; students’ social and environmental experience; presentations, workshop materials, students’ and teachers’ resear ch compiled on a CD; teachers’ experience in dealing with intercultural groups and new materials for lessons; a webpage; articles on the websites of both schools.
Coordinator: Riga Zolitude Grammar School , Latvia Contact person: Veronika Skripačova Contacts: 22 Ruses Street, Riga, LV-1029, Latvia. Phone: +371 67405912, +371 29828266, E -mail: [email protected] , [email protected]. Project homepage : http://zolitude.mooo.com/Zolitudes_School/Nor dplus.html Partners: Bjornholt School, Norway, Oslo
NORDPLUS
E-nordisk
Thematic area, sector: E-learning, education Duration: 2009 – 2011
The aim of the project is to develop a platform for e-learning for students from the Baltic countries who desire to learn Norwegian or Danish as a foreign language. The focus will be on levels A1 and A2 (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages); however, the platform will be designed in a manner that makes it easy to later include higher levels of achievement, as well as other Nordic languages. Priority will be given to study material and themes that are important for Baltic-Nordic integration and cooperation, e.g. work and travelling, cultural and everyday situations. The platform will be developed with content ready to use but will also include tools to make it easy for any teacher to develop new content. The web site will be based on the principles of autonomous learning strategies and will be accessible to anyone free of charge.
Results A usable e-learning tool for learning Danish and Norwegian, tailored for users from the Baltic States. This will be of great use for people coming to the Nordic countries to work or study, especially for those, who have difficulties participating in face-to-face courses because of their job or place of residence. The developed materials will fill a void, as most existing learning materials are not very well adapted to meet the needs of learners in the Baltic States. An already established Nordic-Baltic network on e-learning will be reinforced and enlarged. Research results on e-learning approaches to teaching and learning Nordic languages as foreign and second languages will give new input to researchers.
Coordinator: Øyvind Rangøy, Estnorlink OÜ, Estonia Contact person: Inga Mölder Contacts: Jõgeva mnt 12, 48105 Põltsamaa, Estonia, Phone: +372 56455456, E-mail: [email protected] , [email protected] Project homepage: http://enordisk.estnorlink.ee Partners: Denmark, Estonia, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway
NORDPLUS
Knowledge, Creativity & Freedom as a basis for modern education
Thematic area, sector: Basic skills for adult learners; Management of adult education; Pedagogy and didactics Duration: 2008 – 2010
The overall goal of the project was to create space and provide new possibilities for adults (teachers and parents) education and self-development in a perspective of lifelong learning in order to raise their competence and capacities in the deliberate nurture and education of the modern children. Our aim was to create a school – The School of Art of Education - for the self-development of the adults, space, where people learn to work together, cognize themselves and the outer world, create new forms of social co-operation and become free creative personalities in the profession and in personal life. Therefore with the help of Swedish partners (Rudolf Steiner högskolan (RSH) and Solvik School) the project was focused on preparing the profile/curriculum for the school, training the group of tutors, legalization process and recognition of the school. As Estonians face similar challenges and needs, they shared own experience as well as learned together, that creates basis for further cooperation and networking. Products achieved within the project: Tutors group trained through 8 study visits to Sweden The profile of The School of Art of Education (3 year program) was prepared, agreed and presented to the target group. Seven of Lithuanian tutors created the initiative group which will organize workshops and courses. The logo of the school was created and the leaflet about the school was developed. The websites of the project and the school was developed. (http://www.valdorfoiniciatyvos.lt/umm/Nordplus/ ; http://valdorfoiniciatyvos.lt/puslapiai/umm.php ). Estonian partners created a working group which has an aim to create the school for grownups.
Coordinator: Parents Organization for Support of Waldorf Education, Lithuania Contact person: Danute Baranauskiene Contacts: Pušų g. 41 -2, Vilnius, Lithuania, E-mail: [email protected] , http://valdorfoiniciatyvos.lt Project homepage: http://www.valdorfoiniciatyvos.lt/umm/Nordplus/ Partners: Lithuania, Sweden, Estonia
Researching innovative approach in adult education to preserve cultural heritage of the Nordic region
Thematic area, sector: Adult education, cultural heritage preservation Duration: 01.06.2009. – 30.12.2010.
Purpose of the project is to develop cooperation between municipalities of historical towns in the regions and institutions in Nordic countries with idea to research innovative approach in adult education to preserve cultural heritage of the Nordic region and therefore to promote better life quality of the local people. Cultural heritage is considered as an asset to promote town’s competitiveness on a broad scale. The most part of the activities were implemented in Kuldiga, that is little historical town of Latvia. In 2004, Kuldiga old town was in scripted at the Tentative list of UNESCO The target groups of the project are citizens of Kuldiga, craftsmen, historical houses owners, heritage field experts and specialists of the historical towns from the Nordic region. This project gave contribution to solve such particular problem as attitude of the local people towards understanding unique values of the old town as common Europe cultural heritage part that we all share; traditional and rare craft skills and knowledge that are in danger and disappearing and in coming up 10 years there will not be possibility to restore ancient buildings. There was given contribution to the issue of the environmental awareness and climate issues considering use of natural and traditional materials in restoration process of the old houses. During the complex of planed project activities as Nordic Wooden Restoration camp with workshops, development and realization of two life-long educational programs for adults, two cultural heritage laboratories and conference as concluding event we developed innovative approach in adult education to preserve cultural heritage of the Nordic region. There was implemented research in innovation in educational methods, programs and transfer of knowledge therefore motivating adult learners to prolong their education and get knowledge that they can really use. Results of the project are increased understanding and raised up awareness about common cultural values of the Nordic cultural heritage and common historical tradition; ensured active participation of the local citizens; given practical input and suggestions contributing environmental awareness and climate issues; developed innovation in approach in adult education to preserve cultural heritage of the Nordic region.
Coordinator: NGO “Culture Projects Coordination centre”, Kuldiga, Latvia Contact person: Ilze Zariņa Contacts: 21 Raina Street, Kuldiga, LV-3301, Latvia, Phone: + 371 26843858, E-mail: Ilzeiz [email protected] Partners: Kuldiga District Council and State Monuments Protection Service, Latvia; NGO “Norwegian Crafts Development”, Lillehammer, Norway; Tammella Restoration Centre, Rauma, Finland; Drobak Municipality, Norway; Cristianfeld Visitor Cen tre and Architect Jorgen Toff Jessen Drawing Office, Denmark
COMENIUS
Public cooperation of Latvia and Bulgaria regions for integration of children with special needs into educational process
Thematic area, sector: Peda gogy of special needs education, school cooperation with local community Duration: 2009 – 2011
In partnership regions in the territories of Ludza and Svishtov municipalities there is a similar social economic situation. That is why the project is oriented to improvement of education quality and facilitation of employment thus it is directed to promotion of regional development.
The objectives of the project: To encourage inclusion of children with special needs into general education process thus improving quality of education, increasing tolerance and mutual respect in society; By the help of experience exchange to create possibility of developing cooperation of project’s participants in the sphere of general ad lifelong learning education spheres; To increase the capacity of municipalities’ employees, teachers and activists of association.
In the both regions pre school education institutions’ learning programmes for children with special needs, comparison of NGO function in educational sphere with the aim of implementing good practice will be performed in both regions. Thus it will be possible to incr ease the capacity of municipalities’ employees, teachers and activists of associations. In both regions teaching aids (methodological materials) will be developed for practical use. Different kinds of events will be organized. The aim of these events is to “hand over” gained good practice to project’s target group and to use in different contexts and environments. The preconditions for signing of cooperation agreement between Svishtov and Ludza municipalities will be created.
Coordinator: Ludza Local Municipality, Latvia Contact person: Svetlana Rimša Contacts: Raiņa Street 16A, Ludza, Latvia, LV 5701, Phone: +371 65707411; +371 29273077, E mail: [email protected] , [email protected] Project homepage : http://www.ludzaspils.lv/?cat=309&lang=lv Partners: Municipality Svishtov, section Education and culture; Health kindergarten; “Child’s heart” Association of parents, Bulgaria
COMENIUS
Language GAMES
Thematic area, sector: Education Duration: 01.08.2008. – 31.07.2010.
The aim of the project is to broaden students’ horizon in intercultural dialogue, founding opportunity for students’ initiati ve and creative language learning as well as practical teaching using the method of learning together and from each other.
Leading motto of the project is GAME: 1) Language games for learning conversational skills. German and Latvian students developed interactive language teaching materials, 2) Creative games - developing them the project members learned practical woodworking skills using two methods – manual and technologies.
Teaching Latvian was assigned to students and to create the 10-day teaching set each student chose one topic, worked out lexical and grammar exercises in order to teach this topic to new friend in an attractive way using songs and games. Practical part of the project was based on developing creative games. In mixed groups students designed blueprints and made educational board games which were later presented to five Talsi nursery schools and the the Centre for Women and children in crises. Next stage of the Project took place in Germany where the students learned about the advanced technologies in wood- processing plants „Schiffler”, „MAGE”. They discovered much new in German culture and traditions as well as in social daily life. Among the project activities there was a meeting with the Mayor of Falkenberg, a trip to Sprehwald organised by Herzberg Rotary club, raft building and testing down the river Elster, learning German. Creative ideas the students outlined on paper, then made them in wood, developing a new game that was named “Rip – rip” and it was given to junior students in Falkenberg. The new game gave rise to interest also back home and many wanted to purchase it therefore we started to produce it in the program Junior Achievement Latvia. Students’ training company “Wood Games” offered the game „Rip -rip” in the market receiving nomination „Innovative Product” more than just once. As a reward the students’ company was invited to take part in the first annual fair „Made in Latvia”. So the product created during the project COMENIUS stood next to well known Latvian trademarks. The products of the project are: Interactive L atvian learning programme „Latvian in 10 days” Creative team forming and cooperation stimulating game „Rip -rip” .
Coordinator: Talsu Secondary school No.2 , Latvia Contact person: Iveta Rorbaha Contacts: Stre et Mīlenbaha 32, Talsi, LV -3201, Latvia, Phone: +37126596146, E -mail: [email protected] Project homepage: http://www.talsu2vsk.lv/projekti.php
COMENIUS
My personality and career in multicultural society
Thematic area, sector: Possibility and potentiality of career Duration: 01.08.2008. – 31.07.2010.
Nowadays it is very important to get good education, job and to make successful career. The aim of the project is to give information and support in career education. Participating in the project ‘’My personality in multicultural society’, students had possibility to communicate, to acquire the modern technologies (ICT), Greek and Latvian culture and traditions, and environment in labour market. These skills will be very useful making good labour relationship and will give knowledge about possibilities to get a job abroad. The students developed communicative and debate skills. The project motivated them to study, to be sociable and creative and made them more self- confident. Project language was English, so students improve language skills writing e-mails, essays, doing and showing presentations in conferences, listening partners’ information, discussing and reading e-mails and materials in Internet. Students used their native language, too, making phrasebook for communication in partners’ native language. Interviews showed their social and language skills. Projects, research works, CV, essays and motivat ion letters showed students’ creativity, talent and knowledge in culture. Participants used modern technologies, multimedia, internet that will be useful further. Students were motivated for lifelong learning. The themes of the project were included in programs of Geography, History, Class, English, native language lessons. While mobility students and teachers took part in culture and sport events, they had lessons, excursions, they visited museums and get familiar with traditions. Students organized conferences; they debated about professions and career, about education. Students met dominated profession people in each region and took interviews. Project results were reflected in local and state press, school news and Jelgava Secondary School No4 home page. Students, their parents and teachers in both partner countries were informed about the project. Final product of the project is calendar made by students that reflects knowledge acquired in this project.
Results During the project there were made up presentations about educational systems in Greece and Latvia, about enterprises in Jelgava, about Latvian Agricultural University and schools in Jelgava to get vocational technical education, There was made the film about the visit to Greece and made films - job interviews. There are collected students’ essays in English and Latvian about career and interviews with different profession representatives. Students acquired knowledge about different professions, trade union and its importance, what employee has to know, about rights and responsibilities and got information about chances to study and work abroad. Final product of the project is calendar 2010/2011 made by students.
Coordinator: Jelgava Secondary School No.4 , Latvia Contact person: Ingrīda Drēska Contacts: Phone: +371 63029555, +371 29636826, E-mail: [email protected] Project homepage: http://www.4vsk.jelgava.lv/Projekti_konkursi.html Partners: 2o Geniko Lukeio Argostoliou Panagiotis Vergotis, Greece COMENIUS
From Seed to Plant
Thematic area, sector: Intercultural dialogue, literature, environment/ecology; Arts and crafts, music, mother tongue, foreign languages, mathematics, biology, geography, environmental education Duration: 2007 – 2009
This cross-curricular project looked at the plants of the local areas of each school, as well as the climate diversity. The children learnt about their local natural environments and exchanged their observations through paintings, drawings and natural material collages. A study of plants culminated in creating an international garden in each school with examples of trees, herbs and flowers from each partner country. After the first year of the project children were very curious why the same plants grew differently in each country. Thus we started the World Weather Watch. Maths, literacy and ICT skills were developed through building and comparing the weather graphs and direct communication using Flashmeetings. Finally the project included language learning opportunities through songs and games in partner languages. The parents and wider community were involved in the project by the means of displays, newsletters, local press and interactive presentations. Products of the project: Calendar of 2009 with children's art work pictures; Weather calendar. Children observed weather and tagged it every day on; Pictures, Power Point Presentation about the project; Video with children songs and reports from each member recorded to CD.
Coordinator : St Albans Road Infant School, United Kingdom . Rita Stoskiene, St Albans Road, Dartford, DA1 1TE , Phone: 01322223751, E-mail: [email protected] , www.stalbansroadinfants.co.uk Contact person : Ramute Stanislovaitiene, Kaunas Nu rsery School “Rokutis” , Lithuania Contacts: Baltaragio g.1, Kaunas, Phone: +370 375455 10, E-mail: [email protected], www.ldrokutis.lt Partners : Lithuania, Norway, United Kingdom, Turkey COMENIUS
Schools-Families, Working together for Better Education Achievements
Thematic area, sector: Inclusion in education, parental involvement, combating failure in education Duration: 2008 – 2010
The aim of the project was to support children’s educatio nal activities in kindergarten and involving their parents into the process. During the first year, a survey was carried out among parents, using a jointly compiled questionnaire. Each partner country chose the method they wanted to use with respect to the size of their institution, previous collaboration traditions with parents, etc. (e.g. a questionnaire, brainstorming, and individual interviews with the parents). As a result of the survey, common interests and relevant topics to proceed with during the project were identified.
A family party called “European Day” took place in our kindergarten in 2009, where the project, its subject matter and the common elements of the questionnaire answers – topics that unite parents regardless of nationality – were presented to the guests. The children participating in the project and their teachers introduced the partner countries to the guests through each coun try’s flag, national flower and either a fairytale, song or game. The families became acquainted with the project materials. The preliminary version of a jointly composed book “Traditions, Recipes and Stories from Four Countries” was presented during the partner meeting in May 2010. Teachers have gained invaluable experiences and knowledge during the project, learned much about the educational practices of each country and about how they cooperate with parents. The involvement of fathers in both child care institutions and at home was increased. The project has had a great effect on the entire development of the organisation. Children acquired elementary knowledge of our partner countries (location, symbols, culture), their minds were broadened and an interest in foreign countries was sparked. The groups’ programmes were supplemented with new topics: compiling a European book, family events introducing partner countries (e.g. 5 o’clock tea introducing England, Spain day, etc). Cooperation between kindergarten teachers, employees, par ents, the board of trustees and the kindergarten foundation was increased. What had the biggest effect on the participants was the development of English language and IT skills through communication, presentations, compiling the project book and making the DVD and CD. A project logo competition took place during Comenius week in spring 2010 to find the most beautiful Estonian Comenius project logo and our project logo was declared as the winner.
Coordinator: Portman Early Childhood Centre, United Kingdom. Jose Oliva, 12 -18 Salisbury Street , London, Phone: 02073415435, E -mail: [email protected] Contact person: Mare Robal, Lepatriinu lasteaed, pre- primary school Contacts: Keemia 40, Tallinn, Estonia, Phone: +372 6566424, +372 56645685, E-mail: [email protected] , [email protected] Project homepage: www.lepatriinulasteaed.ee Partners: Germany, UK, Spain, Estonia
COMENIUS
Do it for yourself!
Thematic area, sector: Health education Duration: 2008 – 2010
Objectives To provide students with new knowledge and experience about the connection between actual environmental and social situation and opportunities for healthy lifestyle; to increase student’s awareness and understanding in necessity of active and healthy lifestyle; to develop cross-curricular connection; to promote students’ social and environmental engagement, creativity, language, communicative and team-working skills and competences through traditional and innovative methods.
Subjects Positive youth development as whole persons’ development; h ealthy- lifestyle choices – selecting a way of living that is in accord with sound condition of body and mind, prevention of diseases and injuries; decision making and problem solving skills by pupils – choosing among several alternatives; self-responsibility – taking care of oneself; being accountable for one’s behaviour and obligations, choosing for oneself between right and wrong; accepting differences – to recognize and accept factors that separate or distinquish one person from another, especially physical and mental disabilities.
Approach Using of innovative and creative ways and methods; learning of healthy-lifestyle skills by doing; active involving of students in all stages of the project; establishment of real contacts with the local and regional associated partners; project valorisation measures during whole the project.
Results Sport and health maps; the descriptions of seasonal sport games, healthy food recipes, the video and PowerPoint presentations, the E-twinning materials, the publications in the local mass media, the physical abilities test results and Healthy life style- survey results.
Coordinator: Malpils Secondary School, Latvia Contact person: Līvija Mukāne Contacts: Street Sporta 1, Mālpils, LV -2152, Latvia, Phone: +371 26836192, E -mail: [email protected]
Partners: Ryde High School, United Kingdom; Zespol Szkol Ponadgimnazjalnych Grabica, Poland; Gausdal videregaaende skole Norway; Dobeles Valsts gimnazija, Latvia; Instituto de Ensenanza Secundaria Campo de San Alberto, Spain; Gimnazjum Publiczne im. Jana Pawła II w Radomyślu Wielkim, Poland
COMENIUS
Do it for yourself!
Thematic area, sector: Health education Duration: 2008 – 2010
Objectives To provide students with new knowledge and experience about the connection between actual environmental and social situation and opportunities for healthy lifestyle; to increase student’s awareness and understanding in necessity of active and healthy lifestyle; to develop cross-curricular connection; to promote students’ social and environmental engagement, creativity, language, communicative and team-working skills and competences through traditional and innovative methods.
Subjects Positive youth development as whole persons’ development; h ealthy- lifestyle choices – selecting a way of living that is in accord with sound condition of body and mind, prevention of diseases and injuries; decision making and problem solving skills by pupils – choosing among several alternatives; self-responsibility – taking care of oneself; being accountable for one’s behaviour and obligations, choosing for oneself between right and wrong; accepting differences – to recognize and accept factors that separate or distinquish one person from another, especially physical and mental disabilities.
Approach Using of innovative and creative ways and methods; learning of healthy-lifestyle skills by doing; active involving of students in all stages of the project; establishment of real contacts with the local and regional associated partners; project valorisation measures during whole the project.
Results Sport and health maps; the descriptions of seasonal sport games, healthy food recipes, the video and PowerPoint presentations, the E-twinning materials, the publications in the local mass media, the physical abilities test results and Healthy life style- survey results.
Coordinator: Malpils Secondary School, Latvia Contact person: Līvija Mukāne Contacts: Street Sporta 1, Mālpils, LV -2152, Latvia, Phone: +371 26836192, E -mail: [email protected]
Partners: Ryde High School, United Kingdom; Zespol Szkol Ponadgimnazjalnych Grabica, Poland; Gausdal videregaaende skole Norway; Dobeles Valsts gimnazija, Latvia; Instituto de Ensenanza Secundaria Campo de San Alberto, Spain; Gimnazjum Publiczne im. Jana Pawła II w Radomyślu Wielkim, Poland
COMENIUS
European Youth Forum
Thematic area, sector: Social problems and their solutions in three European project partnership countries: Latvia, Germany and England Duration: 01.08.2008. – 31.07.2010.
The European Youth Forum brought together 14-19 year old students from Germany, England and Latvia to discuss social issues and find possible solutions to them. In Preparatory Conference 1 the students from each country delivered a presentation detailing the two most important social issues for them in their locality .They had the opportunity to discover and appreciate the variety of different issues that exist in their respective countries. Students engaged in intercultural dialogue and decided on a central topic for debate at the following conference. In 3 project conferences, the students discussed such social issues as: discrimination, mutual relations and respect, diminish of stereotypes, equal rights to education and career development for people coming from different social layers and cultures, youth behaviour, responsibilities and liability, youth alcoholism and violence.
Results and products CDs, presentation and research materials, play, photo exhibition to reflect the project activities, project stand, questionnaire “ Youth problems and their reflectio n in mass media” , 300 respondents aged 30+ were surveyed, project files, in cooperation with the National Europass Centre 20 Mobility Certificates were prepared and issued to the Latvian stu dents and teachers, the event “ Latvia and Preili Sate Gymnasium in Europe ” was organized in the frameworks of Comenius Week 2009, IT equipment for an English classroom purchased, a 33 - teacher and student exchange of experience trip to Albert Schweitzer Gymnasium was organized ,many publications in local and regional newspapers, information on the school websites, information about the project in Euronews, meetings with the MEPs Graham Watson and Axel Voss.
Coordinator: Preili State Gymnasium , Latvia Contact person: Anna Verza Contacts: Street Kooperatīva 6, Preiļi, LV -5301, Latvia E-mail: [email protected], Phone: +371 65321663 Project homepage: http://www.pvg.edu.lv/index.php?src=projekti/comeni us/comenius_2008.htm Partners: Albert Schweitzer Gymnasium Huerth, Germany ; Preston School, England
COMENIUS
Music without Borders
Thematic area, sector: Cultural heritage, theatre, music, dance, European citizenship, regional identity, history/traditions, tourism, literature, foreign languages, crafts/professions, media/communication Duration: 2007 – 2009
During the project information about the relationship of people to their folk music was searched and some of the expectations were confirmed: Germans are not eager to remember their folk music as it has associations with the times of National Socialism, in Lithuania folk music played a significant role in becoming independent from the USSR, while in Portugal and Bulgaria folk music has been always an important part of their daily life. The first common concert “Music without Borders” took place during the second partner meeting in Lithuania in 2007. In 2008 all countries presented their folk music at the third meeting in Germany, where around 200 people were impressed by a variety of music. This great success was surpassed by the final meeting in Bulgaria in 2009, where around 400 people listened carefully to the presentation of mostly folk music. The project “Music Without Borders” gave an extensive knowledge about the participating countries, improved abilities to use one’s own voice and different instrum ents, increased self-confidence and self-awareness, enabled to communicate with each other by the means of music and listen to music of other countries without prejudice; the project helped to accept and tolerate the listening habits and cultural peculiarities of other people, become representatives of the fatherland and Europe as well as to improve English language skills. Final products: “Music without Borders” flag, Calendar 2010, CD with project song, DVD, T -shirts.
Coordinator: Albert -Schweitzer -Schule, Germany. Michael Bretzke, Freiheitstr. 17 - 23, 40699 Erkrath, Germany, [email protected], Phone: +492217393827, www.ass-hamburg.de Cont act person: Raimonda Remeziene, Skuodas Art School, Lithuania Contacts: Gedimino g. 4, 98116 Skuodas, Lithuania, Phone: +370 44073567, E-mail: [email protected] Project homepage: www.music-without-borders.eu Partners: Lithuania, Bulgaria, Germany, Portugal
COMENIUS
Legends Connecting Past and Present, East and West
Thematic area, sector: Culture, history, languages Time of project implementation: 2009 – 2011
The main aim of the project is to encourage 16 to 19-year-olds to learn more about European culture through attracting students’ attention to the local legends, as we believe that legends are an important part of our cultural heritage. First, students completed “Who Am I?” forms to get to know one another. As the forms contained students’ addresses, they got in contact with each other. At the same time, students in both countries were searching for local legends and translating them into English. They also prepared PowerPoint presentations about their schools, hometowns and countries. Some Skype lessons were o rganized in order to learn each other’s languages. The first exchange took place between February 3 and 12, 2010. 20 Estonian students and 4 teachers visited Antwerp, Belgium. Students worked in groups – they discussed the legends, found similarities and differences and chose one for the final performance. Each group presented the chosen legend and explained their choice. Belgian students also prepared four guided tours around the places connected with the local legends. The second exchange took place between March 3 and 12, 2010. 21 Belgian students and three teachers visited Pärnu, Estonia. Estonian students also prepared 4 tours around the places connected with the local legends. Students wrote scripts on 5 chosen legends, rehearsed and gave their final performance at Pärnu Russian Gymnasium. An e -book of legends will be ready soon. While collecting these legends, students find connections between the past and the present which will increase their interest in their own roots. At the same time the project will help young people compare and contrast culture in different European countries. In order to collect the legends, students will have to browse the Internet for information, visit the library and museums, and interview local people. They will enhance their language skills by translating the legends from their mother tongue into English. They will make presentations using PowerPoint and prepare field trips and guided legend tours on their own. The main product of the project will be the publication of a book on Belgian and Estonian legends with photos and students’ drawings. The book will be given as a present to all the participants, to the schools and to local libraries. One of the legends will be adapted for stage and performed in a partner school at the end of the exchange.
Coordinator: Pärnu Russian Gymnaisum , Estonia Contact person: Tamara Gordina Contacts: Esplanaadi 18-4, Pärnu, 80014, Estonia, Phone: +372 58229262, E -mail: [email protected] Project homepage: www.sito5-pvg.ning.com Partners: Belgium, Antwerp, Leonardo Lyceum SITO5
COMENIUS
Folklore-European Intercultural Link
Thematic area, sector: Culture, traditions, ICT Duration: 2009 – 2011
The main aim of the project is to get to know the folklore of different European countries. If pupils dare to dance they will learn a lot abou t each other. By learning to dance they can understand each other’s cultures and develop the sense of being Europeans. There are 5 topics to discuss: folk song, folk dance, national costumes, national instruments and handicraft. Students in each country recorded a folk song video. They made presentations about national instruments. They painted a boy and a girl wearing national clothes and wrote a description of the details of the national costume. To do that, they had to search for information about a particular national instrument and national costume. They recorded a folk dance video and a video with the steps of the folk dance so that children from partner schools could learn the folk dances of other countries. All videos and presentations were sent to all partner schools. In May 2011, children from all participating countries will get together in France at the folk festival. Another aim of the project is to create a teachers’ network. Each country hosts teachers during the site visit. The teachers have workshops and visit schools. They also meet students, the school headmaster, local authorities and representatives, and attend classes and teach/learn traditional dances/songs. In May 2010, fifteen teachers from partner countries visited Pärnu, Estonia an d took part in many exciting activities organized by the Pärnu Russian Gymnasium.
Coordinator: Pärnu Russian Gymnasium , Estonia Contact person: Tamara Gordina Contacts: Esplanaadi 18-4, Pärnu, 80014, Estonia, Phone: +372 58229262, E-mail: [email protected] Project homepage: www.folklore.ning.com Partners: Bulgaria, France, Turkey, Italy
COMENIUS
Nice to meet you
Thematic area, sector: Cross-cultural dialogue and co-operation, cultural heritage, learning about European countries, new technologies, European citizenship and European dimension, foreign language teaching and learning Duration: 2008 – 2010
Starting from the ancient times people always wanted to get to know what is there behind a horizon. Is there any who speaks in your language, lives the same life as you? The year’s pass and the curiosity grow and people want to meet each other. It is the best thing in the world to make friends in so different countries, to get more information about culture, about traditions, about living conditions and moral values, about great national scholar. Variety of all European Union countries, their differences and similarities show us how rich we are, how nice is to meet, to live together in our world. It makes us more open-minded and can understand each other very well. Objectives: 1) Promote tolerant attitudes to other cultures and languages; 2) develop communication skills and tolerant attitude to other cultures and languages, increase our students` and teachers` interest and knowledge about other countries and their people; 3) improve the knowledge of the English language as the common language in the project, broaden mutual understanding and collaboration between students and teachers from different countries living together in EU; 4) Develop new skills – film making, screen writing, acting, versification and composing, using of light and sound equipment, creative group work, information look out and processing; 5) Develop cultural and historical topics through creative writing from our students’ re ality; 6) Learn different aspects of other EU nations, such as points of view, values, history, culture, traditions, geographical situation, and language; 7) Involve in project activities students of different age with the different interests and teach them to work together in a creative group to reach the aims of the project. 8) To improve the knowledge of different school systems.
Results and products: Presentation Let`s get acquainted!/DVD Presentation Literary Heroes Script written for film/gathering all necessary materials for filming/Heroes travel around Nice to meet you http://nicetomeetyou2008-2010.blogspot.com Films: Jip and Janneke in Latvia, Aphrodite in Poland, Koziolek Matolek in Czechia, Golem in Cyprus, Spriditis in Netherland Final film: Nice to meet you.
Coordinator: Private Secondary School “The Bridge of Light 97”, Latvia Contact person: Egita Heislere Contacts: Street Nākotnes 3, Ķekava, LV -2123, Latvia, Phone: +371 29117175, E -mail: [email protected] Pr oject homepage: http://nicetomeetyou2008- 2010.blogspot.com Partners: Szkola Postawowa Nr. 18, Poland; Openbare basisschool De Octopus, Netherlands; Zakladni škola Praha 7, Czech Republic; A Demotik o Sxoleio Xylofagou, Cyprus
COMENIUS
Student Voice – The European Dimension
Thematic area, sector: European citizenship and European dimension, intercultural education, pedagogy and didactics Duration: 2008 2010
SVED stands for “Student Voice—the European Dimension”. There are 11 part ner schools and 1 guest school involved from 11 European countries. There have been a total of 9 visits: Bradford, UK —Oct 08 ; Gniezno, Poland —Oct 08 ;Benedikt, Slovenia —Apr 2009 ; Salgótarján, Hungary —Apr 2009 ; Telde, Gran Canaria —May 2009 ; Alytus, Lithuania —Oct 2009 ; Nicosia, Cyprus —Feb 2010 ; Valletta, Malta —Apr 2010 ;Altamura, Italy —Apr 2010 . We have had many International days where we recognized contributions of other countries to our own societies and helped the students to understand difference and embrace diversity. We have written, composed, sang and recorded our own theme song “We have a Voice”. We have our own logo designed by an Italian student. There are currently 343 students and staff who are members on the SVED platform. There are 21 groups on the platform ranging from Student Leaders to SVED Aid group. The most popular group is SVEDish (64 members) where we share key phrases in each of our languages to help when we meet up! 2272 photos have been shared on the platform. 68 videos have been shared ranging from dancing in Slovenia to the SVED song workshop in Lithuania which had the largest number of views at 320. We have our own website where we will share best practice from all the partner countries including lessons and resources www.svedcomenius.co.uk.
Project website www.svedcomenius.co.uk , learning and teaching materials, lesson plans, LOGO, song “We have a voice”, project Poem, SVED magazines (1st-6th edition) are the products of the project.
Coordinator: Bradford Academy, United Kingdom. Moncef Fakhfakh, Phone: 01274 256789, E-mail: info@bradfordacade my.co.uk, [email protected] Contact person: Līga Mažeika, Akniste Secondary School Contacts: Skolas Street 19, Aknīste, LV520, Latvia, Phone: +371 65266221, E -mail: [email protected], [email protected] Project homepage: www.svedcomenius.co.uk Partners: Les Lomo De La Herradura, Spain (Canary Islands); Lyc eum Soleas, Cyprus; Bradford Academy, UK; Borbely Lajos Szakkozepiskola, Hungary; Lyceum “Federico II” di Svevia, Italy; Alytaus Jotvingiu Gimnazija, Lithuania; St. Albert the Great, Malta; Storsteinnes Skole, Norway; Gimnazjum nr 1 im. Zjazdu Gnieźnieńskiego, Poland; Osnovna šola Benedikt, Slovenia COMENIUS
Drugs, Alcohol and Smoking – a Youth Problem. – Why?
Thematic area, sector: Intercultural education, new technologies, ICT, European citizenship and European dimension, foreign language teaching and learning Duration: 2007 – 2009
The participants of the project carried out surveys among their peers, tried to ascertain why the youth is becoming addicted to psychotropic materials, how they influence intercommunication and inclination to criminality. Having investigated the reviews partner countries tried to find similarities and differences between young people in Slovakia and Lithuania. The participants accomplished a lot of activities: there were 1000 youngsters interviewed in both countries, the questionnaires analyzed, an informative issue on prevention of harmful habits as well as the advice and recommendations of the participants themselves for the peers how to avoid the consumption of these harmful for people materials published. The partnership took various forms and had other advantages such as intercommunicative abilities, cultural awareness, communication among themselves and families, cooperation during various activities: taking part in lessons, numerous events and excursions. During the project dissemination was carried out, the communities in Lithuania and Slovakia were informed, photo albums, collages, video recordings were made. The following types of products were achieved: A booklet ‘Drugs, alcohol, smoking – a youth problem. – Why?’ CD ROMs and Video material Reports on the project on local TV in Taurage and Banska Bystrica Posters, photos, illustrations, collages A vocabulary booklet in four languages: English. German, Slovak and Lithuanian Questionnaires A film festival ( films presentations on the topic of prevention of alcohol, smoking and drugs) Project work ‘Puppet theatre ‘The Three Pigs’ Cognitive excursions around Lithuania and Slovakia.
Coordinator: Stredna zdravotnicka škola B.Bystrica, Slovakia. Agata Jankova, ul.Tajovskeho 24, 97429 Bans ka Bystrica, Slovakia, Phone: +421 908488531, E mail: [email protected], http://www.szsbb.edu.sk Contact person: Rimute Bandziniene, Taurage Zalgiriai gymnasium, Lith uania Contacts: Moksleiviu aleja 14, LT 72288 Taurage, Lithuania, Phone: +370 44661009, E mail: [email protected] , www.zalgiriai.taurage.lm.l t Partners: Slovakia, Lithuania
COMENIUS
Sports, Cultures and Languages Integrated Learning
Thematic area, sector: Physical Education and Sport Duration: 2009 – 2011
Each participating country has a unique and traditional sport which may be unfamiliar for some participants. Pupils from the host country teach their traditional sport to the other participating pupils by producing a learning DVD of their traditional sport. The pupils have the opportunity to play each sport during each visit . The sports covered within this project are: cross country skiing in Estonia, radio controlled sailing in Italy, canoeing in Portugal, handball in Germany, cricket in England.
Each participating country also introduces their own culture by producing a presentation DVD to become aware of the similarities and differences between partner countries. Learning modern foreign languages is an important part of this project. Therefore, a DVD with survival language phrases in the native language of each country is produced.
The final outcome will be a booklet and a collection of 15 DVDs, which will be a useful resource for incorporating and introducing a new international sport within the Physical Education curriculum. Right now we can present the following set of DVDs: 4 DVDs with basic language phrases, produced by participating countries Learning Portuguese, Learning Estonian, Learning German, Learning Italian 4 DVDs with the traditional sports of the country Learn to Ski, Canoeing, Radio Controlled Sailing, Handball 4 DVDs with the culture presentations from participating countries.
Coordinator: Finchley High Catholic School, United Kingdom. Christopher James Janata, Woodside Lane N12 8TA, London, UK, Phone: 0207 226 3912, E-mail: [email protected] Contact person: Marikka Metsis, Uulu Primary School, Estonia Contacts: Tahkuranna 86502 , Pärnu County, Estonia, Phone: + 372 44 60674, E -mail: [email protected] Partn ers: Italy, Germany, United Kingdom, Estonia, Portugal
COMENIUS
Eco-Intelligence in Action
Thematic area, sector: Environment Duration: 2008-2010
Our project “Eco Intelligence in Action” concentrated on a current and urgent worldwide environmental problem – the climate change and its effects. During the two project years the students got acquainted with the phenomena of the climate change worldwide and locally, studied the ways how to reduce human activities which cause global warming. The students created various visual aids (posters, notices, presentations) to promote environmental thinking and attitude in their daily routine by recycling, saving energy and water, reducing waste production, etc. The students successfully developed cooperation with local government and environmental institutions, like waste processing plants and others. Most students and teachers received a Europass certificate which certifies their participation in the project mobilities. The project partners have effectively used local mass media to inform the community about current project activities and promote publicity of the project. Both teachers and students have benefitted from this project by developing communication, cooperation and IT skills. Besides, the students and teachers had a chance to get to know the culture, social background and education system of each partner country. They have made lifelong friends and enjoyed the common work and activities. The project was successful due to excellent partnership and coordination. The project results match the goal and objectives which were planned in the beginning.
Results and products: Eco dictionary Articles of Young reporters for environment Web page (www.our-comenius.net) Eco schools CD-ROM with students presentations Pedagogical materials Project logo Poster „Eco – rules” Posters about environmental problems and green Eco Questionnaire energy Pins with the logo.
Coordinator: Bernd Gebel, Hauptschule Holderhecke Bergrheinfeld, Kreuzstr. 59, 97440, Bergrheinfeld, Germany, E -mail: verwaltung@hauptschule- bergrheinfeld.de Contact person: Anda Deksne Contacts: Rūjiena Secondary School, Viestura Street 11a - 31, Rūjiena, LV -4240, Latvia, E-mail: [email protected] Project homepage: www.our-comenius.net Partners: Hauptschule Holderhecke Bergrheinfeld, Germany; Gimnazjum nr 22 z Oddzialami Integracyjnymi im. Stanislawa Staszica, Poland; Lauritsalan koulu, Finland; Escola Secundária de Valongo, Portugal; General Lyceum of Kyparissia, Gre ece; Stord Ungdomsskule, Norway
COMENIUS
Birds In My Town
Thematic area, sector: Environmental Education Duration: 2008 – 2010
The project is a partnership among schools from Latvia, Poland, The Netherlands, Turkey and Spain. The overall aim of the project was to get acquainted with ecosystems in other European countries, compare and thus develop understanding of Europe as our common home and learn to be a responsible citizen with concern about the quality of common European environment. Students did birds observation in their towns. There were organized meetings with professional ornithologists. Students had to research, gather information about the typical birds of their country and summarize all the information in their drawings, created handouts and presentations. Special attention was paid to endangered species. They were encouraged to develop their research, comparison and evaluation skills. Visiting partner countries, living in host families and working on the project with other participants improved the students' cooperative and social skills. Students developed their English language skills and got insight into European diversity. Communication in the project was based on extensive use of modern technologies: website, forum, videoconferences, e-mails. The project team met twice a year for the presentations, to evaluate activities and build on good practice. Each school has integrated the project into its curriculum.
The project's end products: DVD with the results of research; coloring book with students’ drawings ; poster which presents the most typical and endangered birds.
Coordinator: Ventspils Center Primary School , Latvia Contact person: Sinta Daliņa Contacts: Brīvības Street 15, Ventspils, LV- 3601, Latvia, Phone: +371 63629937 E-mail: [email protected] Partners: Besime Ozderici Ukogretim Okulu, Turkey; Gimnazjum w Siedlinie, Poland; Commanderij College, Netherlands; Instituto de Ensenanza Se cundaria Isidor Macabich, Spain
COMENIUS
Creative Language-learning and Innovative Multicultural Activities Together in European Schools /CLIMATES/
Thematic area, sector: CLIL, cooperative learning, multilingual and multicultural education Duration: 2008 2010
The idea of our CLIMATES project comes from the need to fulfil one of the main objectives of the LLP programme: promoting early language learning in a multilingual Europe. Language is an integral part of our identity and the most direct expression of culture: it is through language that we socialise, that we organise our thoughts, that we transmit our cultural heritage. As we can read in the last “A new Framework Strategy for Multilingualism” (2005), besides the 20 official languages of the Union, there are 60 or so other indigenous and non indigenous languages spoken by migrant communities. It is this diversity that makes the European Union a common home in which diversity is celebrated, and where our many mother tongues are a source of wealth and a bridge to greater solidarity and mut ual understanding. The CLIMATES project is aimed to promote “inclusive and motivating” language learning contexts for young pupils by enhancing their ability to communicate and co operate with people across language and cultural boundaries. Through creative and innovative approaches (CLIL, cooperative learning, cooperative website 2.0), young pupils cooperate to create a “survival kit” of materials referring to cultural identities and languages spoken in the partner ship. CDs with a handbook for teachers including lesson plans and handouts for children on the topics developed during the project. The themes included are: Survival kits – things and knowledge you need before visiting a foreign country. Travelling suitcase – typical things from each partner cou ntry presented during teachers’ exchange, including games, songs, stories and presentations. Alphabets – comparing and finding out similarities and differences. Different but similar – predicting, drawing and writing the ending of a story and sharing it on the web. Welcome to my school – similarities and differences in school systems European bread – types of bread, ingredients, process of making bread, experiments, similarities and differences in Bread culture. Multilingual Christmas – Christmas greetings, names of Father Christmas in different languages. A name I call myself – the most common girls and boys names at school. Nice to meet you – gestures and ways of greeting in the project countries. Hide and seek – the rules of the game in different cultures, numbers. Welcome to my house – types of houses, materials, landscapes near the schools, relation between house/climate and buildings/ culture What’s the weather like – observing the weather throughout the school year, collecting date and comparing the weather in different countries, connection between weather and climate.
Coordinator: Direzione Didattica Pinerolo IV Circolo, Italy. Silvana Rampone, E mail: segreteri [email protected] Contact person: Gunta Krīgere, Aizkraukle Municipality Primary School Contacts: Street Kalna 6, Aizkraukles pagasts, LV 5101, Latvia, Phone: +371 65128285, E mail: [email protected] Project hom epage: http://share.dschola.it/dd4pinerolo/Climate/default.aspx Partners: Direzione Didattica Pinerolo IV Circolo, Italy; Hvaleyrarskóli, Iceland; Ceip Gaspar De Portolà, Spain; Di rezione Didattica Carlo Casalegno, Italy; Emlak Kredi Bankasi Ilkogretim Okulu, Turkey; Scoala George Baritiu, Romania; Åsedaskolan Primary, Sweden; Keila Uhisgumnaasium, Estonia; EB1/JI Agra Do Amial, Portugal; Szkola Podstawowa Nr 81 Im.Lucjana Rudnickiego, Poland; Ashurst Wood Primary School, UK
STUDY VISITS
Supporting minority education in Latvia
Thematic area, sector: Language teaching and learning Duration: 07. – 11.06.2010.
The Latvian Language Agency is a state regulatory agency. It is supervised by the Ministry of Education. The Agency promotes consolidation of the status and sustainable development of the Latvian language, the official state language and an official language of the European Union. The Agency supports the Latvian language learning possibilities for other nationalities and bilingual education in Latvia. Since 1996 the Agency has provided in-service training courses for the teachers of the Latvian Language and bilingual education. It has developed innovative teaching methods based on integration and cooperation, using ICT for language teaching. The participants of the visit learned about state language policy, national curricula reform, local policies to support minority education programs, development of materials for language learning, projects promoting language learning and teaching and bilingual education. The participants met national education policy makers and local government representatives, visited minority schools, had discussions with students and teachers, got acquainted with study and e-learning materials.
The participants of the study visit got acquainted with the situation of minority education in Latvia and in participants’ countries: Austria, Bulgaria, Hungary, Italy, Germany, Macedonia, Spain, Wales (United Kingdom).
Coordinator: Latvian Language Agency, Latvia Contact person: Elita Pušpure Contacts: Street Lāčplēša 35 -8, Rīga, LV -1011, Latvia, Phone: + 371 67350761, + 371 27857047, E -mail: [email protected] Partners: The Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Latvia, the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Latvia, Salaspils municipality and educational establishmensts, Riga Lithuanian Secondary School, Joint Stock Company „Datorzinību Centrs”, Latvia