Associazione Eduimpact Italy

Topic / Theme

Using creative and experiential methods to promote intercultural understanding, inclusion and active participation in diverse learning environments. The course supports educators in developing cultural awareness, empathy and communication skills through arts-based and non-formal learning approaches.

Sending partners

Educational organisations involved in formal, non-formal and informal learning: kindergartens, schools, VET providers, adult education centres, training organisations, resource centres, NGOs and other institutions active in the education and adult learning field, established in Erasmus+ programme countries.

Participants

20–25 adults involved in education.

Course fee

According to the Erasmus+ Programme Guide: 80 EUR per participant per training day, including course preparation, training delivery, training materials, organisational and administrative costs, and 24-hour emergency support during the mobility.

Trainers

A multinational team of trainers from Portugal, Romania, Spain, Greece, Cyprus, Italy and Poland, experienced in Erasmus+ training and international education, including collaboration with SALTO and training activities delivered in more than 15 European countries.

Languages used

Working language: English.
Training materials are provided in English. Upon request, support or materials may be available in Spanish or French, depending on the group composition.

Profile of the participants

The course is designed for teachers, school staff and adult trainers working in the sending organisation who are interested in strengthening intercultural competences and creating inclusive learning environments.

Participants:

  • Work with learners from diverse cultural, linguistic or social backgrounds
  • May have previous experience or be beginners in intercultural education
  • Are interested in improving communication, empathy and classroom inclusion
  • Are willing to actively engage in creative, experiential and collaborative activities
  • Are open to intercultural exchange and reflection on their own cultural perspectives
  • Are motivated to implement intercultural strategies and to engage in preparatory and follow-up activities
  • Aim to strengthen the European dimension of their institution through diversity and internationalisation

Objectives

  • Increase awareness of cultural identity, diversity and intercultural dynamics
  • Develop empathy, openness and respect for different perspectives
  • Use creative methods to explore culture, stereotypes and intercultural communication
  • Improve communication and collaboration in multicultural learning environments
  • Promote inclusive practices that support all learners
  • Design intercultural learning activities adaptable to different educational contexts
  • Develop an implementation plan for classroom or institutional use

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

  • Recognise cultural influences on communication, behaviour and learning
  • Facilitate activities that promote intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding
  • Address stereotypes, bias and misunderstandings in educational settings
  • Use creative methods such as storytelling, visual expression, drama or collaborative projects for intercultural learning
  • Support inclusive classroom environments that value diversity
  • Adapt teaching strategies for multicultural groups
  • Design and implement an intercultural learning project or activity
  • Reflect critically on their own cultural assumptions and professional practice

Daily Programme

Day 1 – Cultural identity and group connection

  • Introductions, expectations and intercultural icebreakers
  • Exploring personal cultural identity and values
  • Cultural self-mapping and storytelling activities
  • Understanding culture, diversity and inclusion
  • Reflection on cultural influences in teaching and learning

Day 2 – Stereotypes, bias and intercultural awareness

  • Identifying stereotypes and unconscious bias
  • Activities exploring perception and cultural assumptions
  • Case studies of intercultural misunderstandings
  • Creative expression: visual or narrative representation of diversity
  • Group reflection and dialogue

Day 3 – Intercultural communication and empathy

  • Communication styles across cultures
  • Active listening and perspective-taking exercises
  • Non-verbal communication awareness
  • Role-play: managing intercultural situations in the classroom
  • Designing communication tools for inclusive dialogue

Day 4 – Creativity for intercultural learning

  • Using arts, storytelling and drama to explore cultural themes
  • Collaborative intercultural projects
  • Creative group challenges focused on diversity and cooperation
  • Adapting activities for different ages and contexts
  • Peer feedback and refinement

Day 5 – Implementation and sustainability

  • Presentation of intercultural activity or project plans
  • Developing personal or institutional action plans
  • Evaluating impact on inclusion and intercultural competence
  • Planning dissemination and follow-up
  • Course evaluation, certification and closing reflection