We explored possible ways to engage diverse groups of adults at a training event for coordinators of the regional network within the Awareness-raising for Lifelong Learning project. On 16 March, we gathered in the inspiring setting of Centre Rog in Ljubljana.
The programme was extensive yet dynamic, promising a creative and engaging meeting. Following the welcome address and introductions of both the new coordinators and the project leader, Joži Vovk, we listened to presentations of recent achievements delivered by Anja Trilar, David Kraševec, Erika Brenk and Špela Bric. Different media channels offer different solutions, and responses on social media vary even when similar posts, examples and stories are shared. What truly matters, however, is innovation.
Brain Gym
One particularly engaging activity is Brain Gym, available in Slovenian on the Lahko.si website. It enables participants to engage through their strengths and interests. Invitations to solve numerical, spatial and language-based challenges can serve as an entry point for people who might otherwise feel reluctant even to hear the word learning.
Strong foundations
This is precisely the point. We must continue seeking new opportunities and approaches to strengthen awareness that learning is what helps us overcome both everyday and life challenges. The discussion then turned to what has already been achieved in this field. Thanks to the media campaign, both the project itself and the importance of lifelong learning have become more recognisable. The online community continues to grow, while the public actively participates in voting for the Best Lifelong Learning Story. Events organised for young people across Slovenian regions also proved particularly inspiring. Together, these achievements represent an excellent foundation and a major success achieved within just one year. We also received an important recommendation: involve representatives of the target group in event planning. In this way, it becomes far less likely that the event will miss its intended audience.
New opportunities
During the afternoon session, we reviewed selected findings from the lifelong learning awareness survey. Meta Arh proposed several innovative workshop titles and highlighted an important insight: “People do not like to think of themselves as learners.”
We should address them by asking the same questions they ask themselves.
How can I eat more healthily? How can I make sure I get enough exercise? How can I prepare lunch quickly while still having enough free time?
Innovative approaches and positive surprises
Later in the training, we formed organisational teams and attempted to solve selected challenges in the most innovative ways possible. The outcomes were colourful, intergenerational, lively and successful events. We eventually presented our concepts and selected a winning team.
When planning an event, we rely on positive surprises.
Looking ahead
This year, in addition to addressing adult learners in general, we are placing a special focus on people aged 65 and over. The first event was already a success. In this issue of the SIAE Newsletter, Nika Bukovšek from the Zasavje AEC, which took on the role of organiser, reflects on the experience. More events followed in May.
Meetings of coordinators are exceptionally valuable, particularly when enriched by new knowledge. This latest gathering also provided us with information and ideas that continue to inspire our future work. We will strive to incorporate them as fully as possible into both our everyday work and the planning of future events.
Ana Peklenik (ana.peklenik@acs.si), SIAE