“If I had to describe this experience in one word, I would choose the word “motivating.” This project was ideal for me, since I already had experience in online youth work at the time, but I wanted to update this knowledge.
I am completely satisfied with how I have expanded my digital competence. An enjoyable aspect of the training was that participants were given the opportunity to present the tools they themselves use in their work. This showed how different everyone’s background is and brought variety. We were able to try out many new tools during the project and share our experience with others. I now have access to a library of over 200 digital tools for working with young people!
I liked the structure of the training course. Lectures were minimal and engaging thanks to non-formal learning methods. I looked at many elements that I knew before from a different perspective and saw my weaknesses, which I can now change.
I was also glad that there was a lot of interaction with other project participants. It was especially useful to develop a project idea in a team with colleagues from other countries. Different views and experiences helped to find a solution that was most suitable for the majority of young people.
During the project, many ideas arose that could be implemented in my youth center. Such projects provide an opportunity to take a useful break from routine, recharge with motivation and return to work with new strength and ideas.”
Anastassija Mašošina
“From April 24th to May 1st I took part in a training course organized by Malta UNESCO Youth Association in Marsaxlokk Youth Activity Centre (Malta). There were total of 31 participants coming from 10 different countries: Malta, Estonia, Austria, Slovenia, Kosovo, Latvia, Spain, Portugal, Germany, and Sweden.
The training course lasted seven days and was lead by dedicated trainers and volunteers from MUYA. The main objectives of the project were to foster media literacy, promote the effective use of digital tools, and facilitate knowledge exchange. The project also aimed to increase participants understanding of potential risks and safety of using digital tools in youth work.
During this program we used different learning methods from discussions (on current digital practices) to analyzing and brainstorming (the potential of online media), theatrical plays, teambuilding activities etc. We also created padlet where each one of us shared different websites and platforms that can help us in many different ways.
One of the key learning points/takeaways from the project was the realization of the importance of digital tools when used in youthwork, what are the potential risks and how to avoid/notice them.
In conclusion, I can say that this project was very eye-opening and beneficial for my personal and professional growth, and I would definitely reccomend this kind of training course to other people working on this field.”
Roman Stefanjuk
