On-line transborder activity readiness of small and medium goods producers

The global pandemic has deeply impacted daily life, leading to restrictions worldwide. Education, including widespread school closures, has not been spared. The Vocational Education and Training (...

The project targeted two groups: T1, including employees of chambers of commerce, VET clusters, and local authorities, and T2, comprising SME owners and managers in goods production. Its goal was to assist them in overcoming pandemic challenges, transforming European SMEs into effective online transborder organizations. Emphasizing digital education support and developing digital pedagogical competences for Chambers and similar VET institutions, the project aligned with the EU's call for digital transformation support amid the ongoing COVID-19 situation and the new Erasmus+ program (2021-2027). Focusing on ICT, innovative curricula, and entrepreneurial learning, the project aimed to raise awareness and knowledge of digital pedagogical literacy among VET actors. It offered access to quality training in business launch strategies, transborder business strategies, online marketing techniques, and legal procedures. Minimizing face-to-face sessions to address COVID-19 challenges, the project proceeded online, enhancing VET educators' skills and confidence. Additional objectives included improving access to VET training and promoting the professional development of VET teachers, trainers, and mentors.

The partnership applied a methodology centered on effective management, ongoing assessment, and outcome evaluation. A project management plan was crucial for schedule adherence, involving planning, assigning responsibilities, and report preparation. The Promotion and Sharing strategy included a Promotion plan, activity decisions, evaluation, and feedback collection, with essential materials like a project logo, website, leaflets, newsletter, articles, and social media channels. A leading organization monitored project quality, focusing on developing Project Results. The kick-off meeting initiated the project, updating documents, membership, and assigning tasks. Partners worked on the m-learning structure, module breakdown, and internal testing. External Experts evaluated the m-learning course. PR2 involved partners contributing to templates, testing, and translating content. The final meeting in Spain concluded the project, summarizing results and planning for sustainability.

In the project, two Project Results (PR1 and PR2) were developed. PR1, the Methodological VET handbook, addressed the needs of SME owners and VET educators in digital education. It consisted of 5 chapters covering topics such as business launch strategies, transborder business strategies, legal and customs procedures, online marketing techniques, and participation in online events. Each module was around 30 pages, structured with educational objectives, content details, module descriptions, and knowledge tests. The handbook aimed to enhance competencies and serve as a standalone textbook and the basis for the digital Methodological VET handbook in PR2. PR2, the On-good m-learning training materials for small and medium goods producers, addressed the challenge of information overload for VET teachers. It provided efficient ways to implement digital qualifications through an innovative, fully automated knowledge/skills diagnosis. On-good m-learning presented tailored learning paths, focusing on specific actions for VET teachers to engage in digital education activities and contribute to better resource utilization. Both results aimed to empower VET professionals and SMEs in adapting to digital advancements.