TOY - Trainers Online for Youth
This is a reference for Meriç Tahan
Erasmus+ program of the European Union provides numerous opportunities to support the realization of new innovative ideas and projects. Many organizations and youth workers are experiencing a lack of understanding of the procedures of realizing international projects and a lack of knowledge regarding Erasmus+ programme and non-formal education. In order to provide opportunities for young people to affect their society and tackle the important issues which are concerning all of us, there is a need for qualified youth workers, who can prepare and organize high-quality projects in the scope of the Erasmus+ programme. Mobility of Youth Workers YWL2027, which gathered 24 youth workers from 8 program countries with the main aim of developing both theoretical and practical competencies in the realization of high-quality youth projects in the scope of the new Erasmus+ Programme for 2021-2027. More specific objectives of the project are:
• to provide participants with practical competencies in project writing;
• to foster cooperation of NGOs at the European level and provide a basis for future collaborations in the Erasmus+ program and its projects.
The participants of this training course were both professional and voluntary youth workers with a minimum age of 18 years old, who are directly involved in the work with young people and who are willing to be involved in the new Erasmus+ program for 2021-2027. On one hand, there were youth workers experienced with the organization of international youth projects, who have a need to get more familiar with the new Erasmus+ program for years 2021-2027 and its specifics or have a need to improve their competencies in order to deliver better quality projects. On the other hand, there will be participants with no previous experience with international projects supported by the Erasmus+ program, who need to gain the necessary knowledge and competencies to organize quality projects in the future. Participants involved will have different levels of experience with project management and organization, which will enable peer learning and sharing of
best practices and experiences with each other. Another criterium for participants of this training course is, that they should be able to communicate in the English language. Moreover, we aimed to include at least 1 participant with fewer opportunities from each country. Each nationality group consists of an equal number of participants, which is 3 (excluding trainers and facilitators). Partner organizations will be responsible for selecting participants from their home countries according to the project criteria. Also, there was 1 man and 2 women / 2 men and 1 woman per country group in order to ensure the gender balance of the project as much as possible.
During the training, a variety of non-formal learning methods were employed to ensure an engaging and effective learning experience for the participants. Participants were provided with informative presentations to introduce key concepts, Erasmus+ program details, and project management essentials. Interactive team-building activities were conducted to foster cooperation, communication, and group cohesion among the participants. Participants collaborated in groups to conduct research, exchange ideas, and prepare presentations about their organizations and youth projects. Simulation exercises allowed participants to practice project management skills in realistic scenarios, enhancing their problem-solving abilities. Moments of self-reflection were encouraged to help participants assess their learning progress and personal development throughout the training. Interactive discussions provided a platform for open dialogue, enabling participants to share their experiences, insights, and challenges. Dedicated sessions focused on familiarizing participants with the Erasmus+ program for 2021-2027 and its funding opportunities, with a special emphasis on KA1 projects.
The training activity achieved several significant outcomes, contributing to the project's sustainability and transferability of learning. Throughout the project, key learning outcomes, project writing tips, project management strategies, non-formal education methods, and information about the new Erasmus+ program were collected. These valuable insights and know-how were compiled into a digital Toolbox. This resource serves as a comprehensive guide and is readily accessible to youth workers and non-profit youth organizations worldwide. The Toolbox enables others to benefit from the project's outcomes and learn new practices to enhance their skills and work effectively.
As a full-time trainer in the trainers' team, my primary role revolved around managing thematic workshops focused on project proposal design. During the activities, I assumed responsibility for dividing the participants into different groups based on the KA153 application form. This strategic grouping allowed for a more targeted and customized approach to the training.
Throughout the workshops, I facilitated engaging and interactive sessions, incorporating non-formal education methodologies. Participants were actively involved in practical project writing exercises, where they could apply the concepts and techniques learned during the training. The activities were designed to encourage brainstorming, collaborative discussions, and hands-on practice, fostering a dynamic learning environment.
We confirme the professional service by Meric Tahan and looking forward to work with him again soon in another KA153 mobility.