Everyone deals with a personal story and storytelling; storytelling is recognised today as one of the oldest approaches to the empowerment of an individual or a group. Stories make up and shape our lives, and are an intrinsic part of every cultural milieu. In general, storytelling relates to the communication of ideas by one person to another. Each individual has their own life story that changes, but always maintains its uniqueness when compared to the stories of other people from a given social environment. The ability to formulate and present your personal story that is inexorably tied to the colourful rainbow of life helps people to give meaning to their experience and improve their self-confidence and self-esteem which applies to both young people and the elderly. It also helps to shed light on the dilemmas and problems they are faced with. Stories can inspire, educate and illuminate the understanding of personal experience.
Based on the mentioned realisations, we formulated numerous materials (tested in various social milieus) whereby the Curriculum and the Methodology are especially important for learning the approach and for association with AE. They can provide experts in this field with a clearer understanding of the additional possibilities for guidance and professional work with individuals or groups they are working with. Consequently, they can help them and guide them in their efforts to engage in the world of education and work.
The mentioned materials encompass practical exercises for understanding story structures, group dynamics, empathetic listening, narrative and solution-based approach to direct work with users as well as activities for telling new successful life stories. The emphasis is on the intercultural context when working with people.
Our materials are available on the project website.
Moira Kobše (moira.kobse@ozara.si), Ozara, d.o.o.
