SPACESHIP: Strategic Partnership to Anchor Capacity of E-learning and Skills Heat up, Inspired by Pandemic

<< Background >>We applied for this project to address the urgent need for quality digitalization in non-formal education (NFE). The COVID-19 pandemic had exposed gaps in digital youth work, as many online activities had failed to achieve their objectives due to limited tools and a lack of clear guidance. Our needs analysis (Feb 2022) confirmed that 80% of youth workers had struggled with online adaptation. While in-person interaction remained vital, force-majeure situations had made digital transformation essential. Additionally, youth workers had lacked targeted digital training. To address this, we collected best practices, developed a Moodle platform, and introduced educational podcasting to enhance digital skills and professionalism.<< Objectives >>By implementing this project, we aimed to equip the youth work sector with sustainable tools for high-quality non-formal e-learning. We sought to analyze and capitalize on best digital practices developed during the COVID-19 crisis, resulting in a comprehensive report on the state of digitalization in non-formal education. Another key objective was to create an enabling learning environment for youth workers by developing and testing a Moodle platform with five learning modules, enhancing their digital and soft skills. Additionally, we aimed to promote podcasting as an innovative educational tool, fostering knowledge exchange among European youth workers. Ultimately, the project contributed to the gradual digitalization of youth work, ensuring more inclusive Erasmus+ opportunities while reducing unnecessary travel and supporting environmental sustainability.<< Implementation >>The key activities implemented in this project were:- two transnational partners' meetings (kick-off and final meeting).- a detailed survey research among youth organizations and youth leaders to measure digital skills and collect best practices of digital youth work.- an online e-learning course with four learning modules developed from a critical mass of experiences that allowed youth workers to improve their digital competencies.- an LTTA activity in Denmark with 16 youth workers who were equipped with appropriate digital and technical skills within a multicultural background. Through this activity we fine-tuned the e-learning course based on the youth workers' feedback.- we created 24 educational podcasts that stimulated a new skill-sharing format within the youth sector.- 4 multiplier events, one in each partner organization's countries.<< Results >>The main result of this project weas the enhanced quality and recognition of non-formal education in its digital dimension. To achieve this, we successfully built innovative and sustainable learning tools that supported youth workers in developing their digital and soft skills. These tools also facilitated the exchange of innovative practices within the sector. As a result, learning providers were able to deliver higher-quality non-formal education activities in digital spaces, effectively using online tools to reach and engage young people.More specifically, the concrete outputs were:- a survey report consisting of the best practices of digital youth work across Europe, together with the current challenges triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic.- 24 educational podcasts focused on digital skills & learning.- a complex online course consisting of 4 learning modules focused on digital tools, communication and learning within the youth work sector.