ILLA_CaseStudy_final.pdf

 

 

Coordinator´s introductory text in the flipbook

 

 

Introduction to the Erasmus+ Integrated Literacy in Action Project (ILA)

 

Erasmus+ Integrated Literacy in Action Project (ILA) Project represents  a response to pressing concerns about national literacy achievement levels over the past two decades. It is set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing educational landscape, marked by a global explosion of knowledge and concerns about the relevance of curricula in most European countries. These factors, together with the established need of 21st century students to draw knowledge from different fields and solve interrelated problems, directed the main goals of the project towards the Integrated knowledge approach.

Erasmus+ ILA Project places a strong emphasis on the ability of young learners to make connections, solve problems from multiple perspectives and incorporate information from different fields. Integration is seen as a means of bypassing the acquisition of isolated facts and turning knowledge into practical learning tools, as well as the acquisition of comprehensive literacy skills and competences. While endeavoring to afford students the opportunity to encounter vital skills repeatedly, rather than restricting comprehension strategies to a single subject, the ILA Approach propagates their application across multiple disciplines. By bridging subject-matter divides and emphasizing overarching concepts, ILA integration promises a dynamic educational experience. It empowers students to engage in meaningful, real-world activities, nurturing a deeper understanding and retention of information. This, in turn, augments their literacy competencies and bolsters intrinsic motivation. The Integrated curriculum approach is an ideal environment for valuable instructional methodology of cooperative learning and the concept of interdisciplinary classroom. This involves creating challenging and meaningful tasks situated in real-life contexts, fostering growth, reflection, and exposure to diverse perspectives for both teachers and students. Such a learning environment successfully supports academic and social needs and fosters stronger student/teacher relationships.

 

Erasmus+ ILA project also addresses key questions frequently posed in front of the teachers. As the project results unfolded, teachers become part of the quest for the answers related to: Relevance of the curricula; Reduction of duplication of skills and concepts in different subject areas; Values connected to the in-depth knowledge of subjects; Increase relevance for the learners, given a real-life context; Skills that can be transferred to other disciplines and to the real life context; Development of multiple perspectives leading to a more integrated knowledge base; Constructivist view of learning (instead of teaching isolated facts). Active participation in the ILA Project Open Class activity presented teachers from 4 partner schools with the opportunity to grow, exchange knowledge and experiences, reflect and be exposed to the richness that different perspectives offer, finally leading to the reinforcement of their teaching role and profession.

Final ILA Project outcomes are encapsulated in a comprehensive Case Study containing LTTAs results and experiences, Integrated curriculum 32 lesson plans across four subject areas: Media, Finance, Science, and Mathematic and the results from Pilot activities.

Throughout the duration of Erasmus+ ILA Project 114 students and 52 teachers were directly involved in the planned Project activities: LTTA organization and participation, Expert Teachers Open Class, Pilot activities and Dissemination. Many other stakeholders (school staff, management, principles, parents, educational stakeholders) participated as well in supporting activities and dissemination efforts so that their contribution can help the project in achieving its goals and purposes.

In the long term, participation in the ILA Project is anticipated to have a transformative impact, not only on 4 partner institutions but wider to National and European level. The project's methodologies and outcomes are expected to be integrated into regular Curricula, influencing educational strategies at a systemic level. Ultimately, the ILA Project aims to contribute to the excellence and visibility of schools, not only locally but on a broader European scale. The Erasmus+ Integrated Literacy in Action Project is poised to be a catalyst for positive transformation, not only in the immediate learning experiences of students and teachers but in the broader landscape of education policy and practice. Through a commitment to integration, we are embarking on a journey towards a more holistic, connected, and effective approach to learning.

 

Jelena Crnek, teacher

Erasmus+ ILA Project Coordinator