Applying non-formal learning in international youth work programmes

Content

Non-formal learning takes place through planned learning activities where some form of learning support is present, but it is not part of the formal education and training system.
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A very obvious feature of non-formal learning are variety of methods used to promote and facilitate learning. Let's explore what are the essential components that make a method to be a non-formal learning method:
voluntary participation
interactive engagement
learning through experience, learning by doing
group and individual involvement
open-ended for possible solutions
experimental - allowing to experiment with roles, actions, behaviour, ways of being, learning and working
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Commonly, non-formal learning methods have the following:
a theme conveyed through a story or narrative
objectives that are feasible to reach by using the method
group size for which the method is most suitable
needed time for a method
materials, resources, handouts
step-by-step implementation
anticipated learning outcomes
further references
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Non-formal learning methods can be grouped into types or categories, for example:
group dynamic games and activities, such as name games, icebreakers, team building activities, trust building exercises
simulation games which recreate reality
role games which uses presribed roles that learners need to fullfil
group work activities
discussions and conversations
self-awareness, reflection
case studies
debates
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Most importantly non-formal learning are used in contexts that are outside the formal education setting. Non-formal learning methods align to the values and principles. Watch the following video to explore non-formal learning values and principles:
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In the following video, you may learn some tips and tricks on how to integrate non-formal learning into international youth work programmes:
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Step 1. In a group of youth workers, discuss: 1) What defines a non-formal learning method; and 2) Share examples of non-formal learning methods and to which types or categories they belong.
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Step 2. After watching explainer videos, reflect, exchange and share about: 1) Which non-formal learning values and principles does seem challenging to implement in international youth work programmes; and 2) Give examples how you can implement values and principles in international youth work programmes.
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Sources for inspiration:
More videos of non-formal learning methods on YOUTRAIN videoproject's Youtube channel﻿
﻿FOCUS learning resources for youth workers, trainers and educators on non-formal learning
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Nectarus organisation created this educational resource and activity for the ETS modular training for youth workers on Designing programmes.
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This activity supports youth workers' competence development in the "Designing programme" area. Activity content and badge issuing criteria aligned with the European Training Strategy (ETS) competence model for youth workers to work internationally:
Competence in action (behaviour): applies non-formal learning principles in programme design with emphasis on youth-centeredness, transparency, democratic values, participation, empowerment, and social transformation;
Knowledge of the values and key principles of non-formal learning;
Willingness to research and stay up-to-date with the newest developments in non-formal learning-related practices.
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Want to endorse (?) our organisation, this activity and/or badge - send us an email! Contact us at info@nectarus.lt for further questions.

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Non-formal learning promoter Get this badge

Badge earner developed into exploring and exchanging non-formal learning methods, values and principles and how these shall be applied when designing international youth work programmes.
To get this badge, youth worker:
discussed with peer youth workers the definition of non-formal learning and shared examples of non-formal learning methods;
reflected, exchanged and shared challenges and examples of applying non-formal learning values and principles in international youth work programmes.
Activity content and badge issuing criteria aligned with the European Training Strategy (ETS) competence model for youth workers to work internationally.
Learning duration: 2 hours

Tasks

Task no.1

Evidence verified by: one activity organiser

Watch explainer videos about non-formal learning. Engage in conversations with peer youth workers about non-formal learning methods, values and principles and how to apply them in international youth work programme design.
How do you define non-formal learning method? Give 2-3 examples of non-formal learning methods from different types or categories.
Share challenges and examples how you can apply non-formal learning methods, values and principls when designing international youth work programmes. 

Skills

#Applying non-formal learning principles in programme design with emphasis on youth-centeredness, transparency, democratic values, participation, empowerment, and social transformation

#Knowledge of the values and key principles of non-formal learning

#Willingness to research and stay up-to-date with the newest developments in non-formal learning-related practices

Designing programmes

Added to playlist (0)

Time to complete: 2 hours

Organisers

Nectarus

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