META-COmpetences for INternational Working Environments

The project aimed to strengthen the capacity of VET systems to respond to increasingly diverse working environments, particularly in metropolitan labour markets characterised by high mobility and ...

The project aimed to strengthen the capacity of VET systems to respond to increasingly diverse working environments, particularly in metropolitan labour markets characterised by high mobility and diverse learner groups. The objective was to reduce barriers to learning and employment caused by cultural, linguistic, social, and digital differences. A key goal was to promote inclusive lifelong learning and continuous skills development by ensuring equal access to flexible learning pathways. This was achieved through the development of dynamic learning materials and online, hybrid, and face-to-face training formats adapted to diverse needs. Based on labour market analysis and stakeholder interviews, skills gaps were identified, and twelve key meta-skills were selected for training (https://metacoinproject.eu). Strengthening competences such as personal and social skills, cultural awareness, learning and problem-solving skills was intended to improve employability, resilience, and job transitions, while supporting social inclusion, active citizenship, and the green and digital transitions. The objectives were implemented through research, development, piloting, and dissemination.

The project implemented activities covering cooperation, research, development, piloting, quality assurance, and dissemination. Partnership building and knowledge sharing began with a kick-off meeting and international events, supporting trust-building and transnational cooperation among partners. Activities included working seminars and training sessions. A dissemination plan, communication materials, a project website, and an online learning platform were developed, and partners were trained to create digital learning content using H5P. A quality evaluation plan was implemented, feedback was systematically collected and analysed, and activities were adjusted accordingly. Research focused on identifying skills gaps through questionnaires and interviews with labour market representatives, as well as mapping existing good practices. The results were published in a Good Practices Guide. Based on this analysis, 12 meta-skills were selected, and activities developed, tested through pre-pilots with learners and working-life representatives. The project also produced course methodology, theoretical materials, online course solutions, translations, an implementation plan, and dissemination activities, including the final conference.

The project produced a range of concrete outputs and training activities that support sustainable use, dissemination, and impact in VET. Key outputs included a project website serving as a central access point for information, results, and learning resources, as well as the dissemination of materials such as newsletters and flyers to support outreach to stakeholders. Core content outputs included a Good Practices Guide and an online repository presenting identified and analysed practices, together with digital learning materials and online courses developed for flexible use in online, hybrid, and face-to-face settings. To support implementation, the project produced a Trainers’ Manual, a User Guide, H5P creation guides for teachers, and an assessment tool to support learning and skills development. The project delivered structured planning and evaluation outputs, including a Quality Plan and Report, a Dissemination Plan and Dissemination Report, and an Impact Report. Internal working documents and materials were also produced and stored, ensuring effective project coordination and knowledge sharing among partners. Together, these outputs provide a comprehensive, transferable toolkit for inclusive and future-oriented VET practice.