Methodology
The training course draws both on a series of very successful Comenius / LLP projects and Comenius Training events, as well as on the expertise available and original knowledge produced in the framework of C2Learn, a large ongoing international research project coordinated by the course organiser. This project aims to introduce an innovative digital gaming and social networking environment incorporating diverse tools, the use of which can foster co-creativity in learning processes in the context of both formal and informal educational settings: an open-world “sandbox’’ (non-linear) virtual space enabling learners to freely explore ideas, concepts, and the ‘shared’ knowledge available on the semantic web and the virtual communities in which they participate. The project has pooled very high-level expertise in the fields of creativity in education, creative thinking, digital games, technology-enhanced learning, and knowledge representation and acquisition. All these become available to course participants through acclaimed trainers who give lectures and run workshops, as well as through various C2Learn materials, which are available to course participants as part of their training pack. The theoretical background provided is coupled with an emphasis on real-life educational practice. The training course overall comprises about 10 hours of lectures, demonstrations and guided explorations, and 15 hours of practical workshops focused on shared reflection and development of learning activity scenarios. Visits to informal learning settings in the area (e.g. museums and archeological sites) aim to inspire participants to reflect on ways of using such settings with their students for creative learning. Sessions are held in a multimedia laboratory where participants have direct access to PCs as needed to enhance the training activities (to enhance their flexibility and independence, though, participants are encouraged to bring their own laptops).
The course is very interactive, participant-centred, self-reflection oriented. It encourages critical sharing of experiences and collaborative design of learning activities. In this, participants are facilitated by the tools of the online community of the summer school.