Shared (Hi)stories

We applied for this project to address the need for more engaging and meaningful language learning while promoting common values, civic engagement, and participation among students. By integrating storytelling with historical and cultural content, we revitalized language lessons, making them more relevant and inspiring for learners. The project also sought to foster a sense of European identity by exploring shared histories across countries. This approach encouraged students to appreciate cultural diversity and common heritage, strengthening their understanding of European values and citizenship. In addition, we aimed to promote a comprehensive approach to language teaching and learning, focusing on the development of key competences such as critical thinking, intercultural awareness, and communication skills. Finally, we identified a need to support teachers with innovative, adaptable resources that combine storytelling, language education, and critical reflection. By empowering educators with tools like lesson packs, the DIY guide, and teacher training, we enabled them to deliver dynamic lessons that motivate students while addressing essential competences and values.

Enhancing student engagement: By integrating storytelling with cultural and historical context, we provided engaging resources, such as lesson packs and the interactive map, which made language learning more relevant and meaningful for students. Promoting cultural awareness and European identity: Through shared (hi)stories and collaborative activities, students gained a deeper appreciation for Europe’s common heritage and cultural diversity, fostering a stronger sense of European citizenship. Developing critical thinking skills: The project encouraged students to analyze stories and historical events from multiple perspectives, promoting reflection, discussion, and a critical understanding of cultural narratives. Supporting teachers: We created innovative resources, including the DIY Guide, teacher training modules, and ready-to-use lesson packs, which equipped educators to deliver dynamic and impactful lessons. Encouraging creativity and collaboration: The project fostered ownership, creativity, and active participation in the learning process by empowering teachers and students to create and share their own stories.

Internal and External Evaluations: Internal reviews ensured quality control, while external evaluations provided feedback from teachers and students to improve materials. Monthly Meetings: Regular online meetings that monitored progress, addressed challenges, and planned next steps. Transnational Project Meetings: Face-to-face meetings in Spain, Serbia, and Belgium which strengthened collaboration and deepened partner understanding of the project goals. Multiplier Events: Six events were held to present project results and engage stakeholders. Conferences and Webinars: Four conferences and additional webinars that promoted the project and facilitated discussions and networking. Social Media and Newsletters: Active dissemination through digital platforms ensured visibility and stakeholder engagement. Green Practices: Partners adopted eco-friendly measures throughout the project. Research and Needs Analysis: Studies were conducted to identify teachers’ and students’ needs, ensuring the relevance of materials. Testing and Feedback: Materials were piloted with teachers and students, gathering feedback to refine resources. Final presentation: Diverse layouts were created to integrate the results into the image of the project.

Booklet: A booklet featuring 30 shared (hi)stories provided a valuable resource for teachers and students to explore European narratives. Interactive (Hi)Stories Map: An online map showcasing shared (hi)stories allowed students to explore European cultural heritage in an interactive and accessible way. Teacher Training Modules: We delivered training sessions to equip teachers with innovative storytelling methods, fostering critical thinking, cultural awareness, and effective language learning. Lesson Packs: We developed 40 lesson packs that combine storytelling with language learning, focusing on cultural heritage, history, and folklore to make lessons engaging and meaningful. DIY Guide: This practical guide was created to help teachers design their own lessons using shared histories. It includes templates, tips, and examples to promote creativity and adaptability. YouTube Channel: We created a channel featuring videos, testimonials, and highlights to promote project outcomes and inspire educators. Multiplier Events: Events were organized in partner countries to share project results, engage stakeholders, and encourage the use of project materials.