Results Training course “Facilitating Adult Learning Groups”, Thassos, Greece under project 2023-1-BG01-KA121-ADU-000114549 Erasmus +

Dear colleagues,
We would like to present you the results of the training course “Facilitating Adult Learning Groups”, under the Erasmus+ project 2023-1-BG01-KA121-ADU-000114549 .
Experts and volunteers with expertise and experience on ADU education attended.
Training course “Facilitating Adult Learning Groups” was in the period 7.07.2024-16.07.2024, Thassos, Greece
All participants received Europass certificates!
The mobility was free of charge, including travel and accommodation costs, as well as meals for participants!

14 teachers and experts participated

 

Outcome 1: Competence
Relevant subject, skill or competence: Facilitating adult learning groups involves a range of subjects, skills, and competencies. 

Subjects

Adult Learning Theory: Understanding how adults learn differently from children (Andragogy).

Group Dynamics: Study of how people in groups interact, including stages of group development and roles within groups.

Instructional Design: Creating effective learning experiences and materials.

Curriculum Development: Planning and structuring content and learning activities.

Educational Psychology: Understanding psychological principles that affect learning.

Skills

Facilitation Skills: Techniques for guiding discussions, encouraging participation, and managing group dynamics.

Communication Skills: Effective verbal and non-verbal communication, active listening, and providing clear instructions.

Conflict Resolution: Techniques for managing and resolving disagreements within the group.

Assessment and Evaluation: Methods for assessing learning outcomes and providing constructive feedback.

Technology Integration: Using digital tools and platforms to enhance learning experiences.

Competencies

Empathy and Sensitivity: Understanding and addressing the diverse needs and backgrounds of adult learners.

Adaptability: Flexibility to adjust facilitation methods based on group needs and dynamics.

Cultural Competence: Awareness and respect for cultural differences within the learning group.

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: Ability to think on your feet and address issues that arise during facilitation.

Time Management: Effectively managing the pace of learning activities to ensure objectives are met within the allocated time.

Description: Facilitating adult learning groups is a specialized practice that requires a deep understanding of adult learning principles, effective communication skills, and the ability to manage group dynamics. Here’s a comprehensive description:

Facilitating Adult Learning Groups

Facilitating adult learning groups involves guiding a group of adult learners through a structured learning process. The facilitator’s role is not just to deliver content but to create an environment where adults feel safe to share their experiences, ask questions, and engage in meaningful discussions.

Key Components

Understanding Adult Learning Principles (Andragogy)

Adults are self-directed and expect to take responsibility for their learning decisions.

They bring a wealth of experience that forms a rich resource for learning.

Their readiness to learn is closely related to the tasks or roles they encounter in their personal and professional lives.

Adults are motivated by internal factors rather than external rewards.

Designing and Planning Learning Activities

Needs Assessment: Identifying the learning needs and objectives of the group.

Curriculum Development: Planning the structure and content of the learning sessions.

Instructional Design: Creating engaging and relevant learning materials and activities.

Facilitation Skills

Guiding Discussions: Using open-ended questions and active listening to foster dialogue.

Encouraging Participation: Creating a safe space for all voices to be heard and valued.

Managing Group Dynamics: Understanding and managing different personalities and group interactions to maintain a positive learning environment.

Communication Skills

Clarity and Conciseness: Providing clear instructions and explanations.

Active Listening: Paying attention to learners’ contributions and responding appropriately.

Non-verbal Communication: Using body language and facial expressions to reinforce messages.

Conflict Resolution

Identifying sources of conflict early and addressing them constructively.

Using techniques such as mediation and negotiation to resolve disagreements.

Assessment and Evaluation

Formative Assessment: Ongoing assessments during the learning process to monitor progress.

Summative Assessment: Evaluating learners’ achievements at the end of the learning cycle.

Feedback: Providing constructive feedback to learners to support their development.

Technology Integration

Utilizing digital tools and platforms (e.g., learning management systems, virtual classrooms) to enhance the learning experience.

Incorporating multimedia resources to cater to different learning styles.

Professional Competencies

Empathy and Sensitivity: Recognizing and addressing the diverse needs of adult learners.

Adaptability: Flexibility to modify facilitation strategies based on the group’s evolving needs.

Cultural Competence: Understanding and respecting cultural differences within the group.

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: Quick thinking and effective problem-solving to handle unexpected challenges.

Time Management: Ensuring learning objectives are met within the allotted time frame.

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Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.

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