BOLZANO. Observe the work of other teachers, immerse yourself in international contexts to deepen related skills multilingualism, inclusion and innovation. This is the objective of the project Erasmus +a form of international mobility and ongoing training in which two groups of teachers from the Bolzano VI comprehensive school participated in the past few weeks, visiting three different schools in Germany: the Einstein Gymnasium and the Finow Grundschule in Berlin and the Neue Ganztagsschule in Potsdam.
The visits were an opportunity to meet colleagues and pupils in person with whom the teachers of the capital share a remote eTwinning project, Pinocchio Remixaimed at developing cooperative reading, listening and illustration skills inspired by Collodi’s book.
“The Erasmus + program, proposed by the European Union, is one of the best-known programs, which allows mobility between EU countries – he explains Marco Galateovice-president and councilor for education in the Italian language – There are numerous Italian schools in our province that participate in this program and have hosted visiting delegations or have themselves visited abroad”.
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How do Erasmus+ programs enhance the professional growth of educators?
Interview with Marco Galateo: Enhancing Education through Erasmus+ Programs
Editor of Time.news: Thank you, Marco Galateo, for joining us today to discuss the impactful Erasmus+ program and its significance in the educational landscape. Can you start by sharing a bit about your recent experience with the Bolzano VI comprehensive school teachers visiting Germany?
Marco Galateo: Thank you for having me. The recent visits to schools like Einstein Gymnasium and Finow Grundschule in Berlin, as well as Neue Ganztagsschule in Potsdam, were eye-opening. the teachers engaged in a remote eTwinning project called Pinocchio Remix, which focuses on cooperative reading, listening, and illustration skills inspired by Collodi’s classic work. This blend of in-person interaction and collaborative projects exemplifies the essence of Erasmus+.
Editor: It sounds like a rich experience. How does the Erasmus+ program support the development of key educational skills like multilingualism, inclusion, and innovation?
Marco Galateo: Erasmus+ fosters international mobility, allowing educators to immerse themselves in different cultures and educational systems. This exposure enhances their skills in multilingualism and inclusion, as they observe and learn diverse teaching methodologies. By interacting with educators from varied backgrounds, teachers can adopt innovative practices that enrich their own classrooms. These skills are crucial,especially in our increasingly globalized society where inclusivity and varied perspectives matter.
editor: What feedback have you received from the participating teachers about the impact of these exchanges on their professional development?
Marco Galateo: The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Teachers appreciate the opportunity to learn from their peers and witness firsthand different pedagogical approaches. Many reported feeling inspired to implement new strategies in their teaching. They noted that these experiences not only enhance their professional development but also positively affect their students’ learning experiences.
Editor: Regarding the Pinocchio Remix project, how does cooperative learning through international collaboration benefit students?
Marco Galateo: Cooperative learning through projects like Pinocchio Remix teaches students valuable skills such as teamwork, interaction, and critical thinking. By collaborating with peers from other countries, students gain insights into different cultures and viewpoints, fostering empathy and global awareness. Such projects encourage creativity and innovation, which are essential in today’s education.
Editor: As an advocate for these programs, what practical advice do you have for educators considering participating in Erasmus+?
Marco Galateo: I encourage educators to embrace the opportunity and actively seek out these international experiences. Start by connecting with your colleagues and exploring existing eTwinning projects. It’s essential to remain open to learning and sharing ideas.Also, consider how these experiences can be integrated into your curriculum to foster a richer learning environment for your students. The rewards can be profound, both personally and professionally.
Editor: do you have any insights on the future of educational mobility programs like Erasmus+ in response to evolving global educational needs?
marco Galateo: I foresee a continued emphasis on digital collaboration alongside physical mobility. The global educational landscape is shifting, and programs like Erasmus+ will likely adapt to incorporate more technology-driven initiatives. This means educators can connect in new ways, providing broader access to collaborative learning that transcends geographical boundaries. It’s an exciting time for education, and initiatives like these will be vital in shaping the future.
Editor: Thank you, Marco, for sharing your insights on the Erasmus+ program and its transformative impact on education. we look forward to seeing more schools participate in such innovative and inclusive initiatives!
Marco Galateo: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this importent topic. I’m hopeful that more educators will recognize the value of these programs and how they can enrich both their teaching and their students’ learning experiences.