JOB SHADOWING: 18-22 JANUARY 2025_TENERIFE
Manuel Pestano
18/01/2025
Docente e ricercatore Università europea di Canarias
"A bridge between educational cultures: Metiva Academy job shadowing in Tenerife"
From 18th to 22nd January, Gabriella Russo and Gabriella Ianni, with the mobilities of Accreditation n.2023-1-IT02-KA120-ADU-000186970 (adult field), of Metiva Academy undertook a job shadowing experience in Tenerife, entitled "A bridge between educational cultures: Metiva Academy's job shadowing in Tenerife". This Erasmusplus mobility aimed to explore innovative methodologies in adult education, promoting inclusion and lifelong learning. Day 1: Exploring Non-Formal Methodologies The first day was dedicated to visiting adult education centres that adopt non-formal methods. We observed how these practices promote active and participatory citizenship, attending interactive sessions with local educators. These experiences allowed us to understand the strategies used in teaching adults with learning difficulties, highlighting the importance of flexible and learner-centred approaches.
Day 2: Collaboration with the Universidad Europea de Canarias
On the second day, at the Universidad Europea de Canarias, we met with the rector and some professors. They explained the organization of the courses, the annual objectives and the management of adult learning activities. The discussions focused on innovative teaching methodologies and strategies for the inclusion of students with fragilities. In particular, we explored the "Campus 42" methodology, supported by several professors and described as a significant opportunity for disadvantaged adults. Together, we developed several project ideas to be presented in future deadlines of the Erasmus+ program.
Day 3: Dive into Astronomy at the Tenerife Astronomical Centre
On the third day we were taken to the Astronomical Center of the island, where we participated in a workshop on mechanics applied to astronomy, focused on observation techniques and maintenance of instruments. The visit to the optics laboratory allowed us to learn about the technologies used for astronomical observation. The interaction with researchers, teachers and students made us understand the commitment of the Center to female inclusion, evidenced by the high percentage of women among both researchers and students, and the educational opportunities offered in the field of astrophysics.
Day 4: Sharing Best Practices and Future Planning
On the last day, we met at a language school for adults. After visiting the facility and observing two active courses, we shared some best practices with local educators regarding inclusion and individualization of training paths. Before leaving, we attended a final meeting with local partners to discuss the observations collected during the week. We developed an action plan to implement the practices learned in the educational context of Metiva Academy, with the aim of enriching our training offer and promoting a more inclusive and innovative education. This experience strengthened our commitment to adopting innovative teaching methodologies and the inclusion of all learners, consolidating the bridge between different educational cultures.
"Tenerife beyond training: a journey through nature, culture and local traditions"
Oltre all'intensa esperienza formativa, il nostro job shadowing a Tenerife è stato arricchito da momenti di scoperta e convivialità che ci hanno permesso di immergerci nella cultura e nelle bellezze naturali dell'isola. Durante il nostro soggiorno, abbiamo esplorato i suggestivi centri storici, passeggiando tra stradine pittoresche, antichi edifici coloniali e vivaci mercati locali, dove la storia dell’isola si mescola alla vita quotidiana degli abitanti. Le passeggiate lungo la costa ci hanno regalato panorami mozzafiato sull’Oceano Atlantico, con tramonti spettacolari e il suono rilassante delle onde che ci ha accompagnato nei momenti di relax. Abbiamo scoperto le meraviglie naturali delle zone montane, immergendoci nei paesaggi incantati della foresta di Anaga, con i suoi sentieri avvolti da una fitta vegetazione e scorci unici che sembrano usciti da un libro di fiabe. Non sono mancati i momenti di convivialità, con pranzi e cene all'insegna della buona cucina locale. Abbiamo gustato piatti tipici come le papas arrugadas con mojo, il pescado fresco, e i deliziosi dolci tradizionali, condividendo sorrisi e racconti con gli isolani, che ci hanno accolto con calore e ospitalità. Le serate trascorse insieme sono state un'occasione per approfondire la cultura locale, scoprendo le tradizioni canarie attraverso musica, balli e feste popolari. Questa dimensione ludica e culturale ha reso l’esperienza di job shadowing ancora più completa, permettendoci di conoscere Tenerife in tutte le sue sfaccettature: un’isola ricca di opportunità, tradizioni e una natura mozzafiato che ci ha ispirato a integrare nella nostra vita professionale valori di apertura, inclusione e scoperta continua.
