1st Transnational Project Meeting of IDEALS Erasmus+ Project The first Transnational Project Meeting (TPM) of the IDEALS Erasmus project was held in Târgu Jiu, Romania, hosted by Asociatia Edulifelong.
This meeting united international partners dedicated to advancing intercultural education and life skills. The meeting opened with cordial greetings and introductory remarks, fostering a collaborative atmosphere essential for effective partnership. Emphasis was placed on aligning efforts towards shared project objectives. Participants engaged in a thorough review of the agenda, elucidating the overarching purpose and specific objectives of the IDEALS project.
This session provided a foundational understanding of the project’s scope and strategic aims. Guido van Dijk of Stichting Onderwijs Midden-Limburg led deliberations on Project Management and Implementation within Work Package 1 (WP1). Discussions encompassed updates to the project timeline, financial oversight, management protocols, and methodologies for monitoring and evaluation. These deliberations ensured a unified approach to operational procedures among consortium members. Insights into Work Package 5 (WP5) were shared by Ersilia Marinelli and Luciano Zazzetti from Liceo Scientifico Rosetti S. Benedetto Tronto, focusing on dissemination strategies and sustainability planning. Topics included the conceptualization of the project logo, social media tactics, and community engagement strategies aimed at maximizing project impact.
Adi Konedareva of ValueMe spearheaded discussions on Work Package 3 (WP3), concentrating on the development of the IDEALS web-based platform. The session outlined action plans for platform design, curriculum development, and user experience enhancement to optimize educational outcomes. Sibel Erol Saygın from Sayeg Derneği illuminated the objectives of Work Package 4 (WP4), centered on promoting democratic citizenship through cooperative activities. Discussions encompassed the design of digital manuals, strategic planning for cooperative initiatives, and fostering active participation among project beneficiaries.
The second day of the TPM witnessed continued momentum and collaborative endeavors. Guido van Dijk provided a comprehensive overview of Day 1 proceedings, ensuring clarity and alignment on project objectives among all participants. Asociatia Edulifelong presented plans for the „Teach for Future Active Citizens“ E-course within Work Package 2 (WP2). Deliberations included the formulation of course content, implementation strategies, and documentation requirements essential for educational efficacy. A detailed task list for forthcoming months was crafted, focusing on meticulous project management to facilitate timely execution of planned activities and milestones.
The TPM facilitated dynamic exchanges of ideas and insights, underscoring the collective input crucial to shaping the IDEALS project’s success. An evaluation session concluded proceedings, acknowledging the achievements and dedication of all participants. Participants enjoyed a cultural break by visiting the Museum of Popular Architecture in Curtisoara and exploring Târgu Jiu, immersing themselves in Romania’s rich cultural heritage. The meeting not only laid a robust foundation for forthcoming activities but also bolstered mutual understanding and synergies within the consortium. As the IDEALS project progresses, it remains steadfast in its commitment to driving meaningful educational reform and intercultural dialogue on a transnational scale.
2. On November 6-7, 2024, Sofia, Bulgaria, hosted the 2nd Transnational Project Meeting (TPM) of the IDEALS project, a collaborative initiative focused on fostering democratic education, social cohesion, and life skills. The meeting, held at Valueme’s Campus X and 51 High School „Elisaveta Bagryana,“ brought together partners from Valueme, Edulifelong, SOML, Sayeg-Der, and LSR for two days of insightful discussions and progress evaluation.
The first day began at Campus X with a warm welcome and an agenda overview, setting the stage for a series of productive sessions. The partners reviewed the progress of the e-course Teach for Future Active Citizens and explored its upcoming piloting phase. A key focus was placed on the IDEALS web-based platform, with discussions surrounding curriculum development and its alignment with modern educational frameworks. The day also included an evaluation of the design and template for the Digital Manual for Building Democratic Citizenship and strategic planning for cooperative activities. Dissemination and networking efforts were also a highlight, with the team reviewing materials, discussing a project policy brief, and planning a Learning, Teaching, and Training Activity (LTTA) in Italy.
The second day transitioned to 51 High School „Elisaveta Bagryana,“ where attendees were welcomed by the school’s principal and participated in an engaging tour. The day emphasized practical applications of the project’s goals through innovative school activities. Guests observed students and teachers piloting impactful activities such as Malala Yousafzai’s Story and Empathy and Perspective-Taking, showcasing the integration of civic education and European values into classroom practices. The workshops provided a platform for hands-on engagement and a demonstration of the project’s real-world impact on students.
The meeting concluded with an evaluation session, where partners reflected on progress and upcoming goals. Certificates were awarded, marking the successful completion of this key project milestone. The two-day meeting reinforced the commitment of IDEALS partners to promoting intercultural democratic education and equipping students with essential life skills, setting the foundation for further advancements in the project.
Stay tuned for more updates as the IDEALS project continues to make strides toward a more inclusive and democratic educational landscape!
