CONNECTing Through TALES!

The project had several objectives. First, we aimed to reduce prejudice and promote tolerance by encouraging students to engage in surveys, discussions, brainstorming sessions, and exchange visits...

The project had several objectives. First, we aimed to reduce prejudice and promote tolerance by encouraging students to engage in surveys, discussions, brainstorming sessions, and exchange visits with partner countries. Second, we used fairy tales as a creative tool to foster multicultural understanding and mutual respect. Third, students explored the national myths, legends, and cultural traditions of each partner country, helping them appreciate cultural diversity. We also wanted to connect students with their international peers, allowing them to share their cultural and traditional values. This helped improve their social and language skills, boosted their motivation, and built self-confidence. Another key goal is to strengthen digital literacy by encouraging the use of ICT and Web 2.0 tools. The project also supported the development of communication skills for both students and teachers. Teachers had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of the eTwinning platform, expanding their digital competencies, and enhancing their professional growth. Lastly, we aimed to raise awareness of sustainable consumption and environmental protection, as climate change is a critical issue that needs to be addressed.

Throughout the project, we implemented a wide range of activities to engage both students and teachers. Three physical exchanges took place in the participating primary schools, involving both pupils and staff. During these exchanges, participants took part in a mix of creative workshops, explored the local education systems, joined cultural trips, and built meaningful connections with peers from other countries. In addition to the exchanges, we organized several online meetings. These sessions aimed to strengthen the professional knowledge and digital skills of participating teachers, while also supporting collaboration between schools. At each school, a number of local activities were carried out throughout the project period. These focused on story writing, developing ICT skills, and practicing interview techniques. We also made sure to involve the whole school community. This was done through newsletters, an Erasmus+ information corner, and regular updates, ensuring that everyone could follow the progress of the project and feel included.

The project has led to a variety of results. Several preparations for lessons and workshops were made. One of the outcomes is an e-book of folktales and legends collected from each country. To support English language learning, we created cartoon books. In addition, we wrote 3 original scripts suitable for puppet plays, bringing the stories to life. Three interviews were also conducted. A multilingual audio dictionary was developed to help students in languages. To represent our collaboration, a project logo was designed. Students prepared presentations about their schools, cities, and countries. We created a digital booklet full of tips on ICT tools. Our outcomes are shared on a project website, freely accessible. Each school has also set up an Erasmus Corner to showcase our work. In addition, we published several newsletters to keep everyone informed. Finally, students made handmade bookmarks as souvenirs of our journey. Besides the practical outcomes, the project also resulted in several internalized achievements. Participants experienced an increased knowledge of ICT tools, as well as improved English skills for both teachers and students. Most importantly, the project fostered a deeper understanding of other cultures.