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Confident Introductions Made Easy: 6 Steps to Shine

If you think back to your first English class, you probably remember the nerves you felt when you had to introduce yourself in English. The challenge was how to present yourself confidently. You might have said, “My name is Amy.” “What’s your name?” But besides just introducing yourself, you want to get to know others a bit more. Meeting new people can sometimes be stressful because we want to make a good impression. It's even more challenging in English, as we fear saying the wrong word or not knowing how to correct ourselves. First impressions are crucial!

Here’s how to introduce yourself confidently in 6 simple steps! Today, we’ll go through vocabulary and phrases that will help you meet people so you can introduce yourself confidently and continue the conversation in a friendly tone.

1. Break the Ice

“Break the ice” is a common phrase in English, meaning to initiate conversation. There are various ways to start a conversation with someone. Greet them and introduce yourself:

Amy: Hello. I’m Amy.

Brian: Hello, I’m Brian.

Amy: Nice to meet you.

You can also break the ice with greetings like “good morning,” “good afternoon,” and “good evening,” or by asking a trivial question that can spark a conversation:

Excuse me, do you know what time it is?

Sorry to bother you, but where is the meeting?

Excuse me, are you going to the restaurant?

You can also start a conversation by giving a compliment:

I love your dress.

You have a beautiful dog!

Is that your car? I really like it.

2. Ask Follow-Up Questions

When you meet someone and want the conversation to continue, ask follow-up questions:

How are you?

Where are you from?

What are you doing here? Or What brings you here?

3. Listen and Ask

If you still lack confidence, pay attention to the responses your conversation partner gives and ask questions:

Amy: How are you?

Brian: A little tired.

Amy: Why is that?

Brian: I didn’t sleep well last night.

Amy: I’m sorry to hear that. What went wrong?

Brian: I’m a bit jet-lagged from my flight.

Amy: I bet. Where did you fly from?

Brian: I came from London last night.

Amy: That’s far! Was it a long flight?4Brian: Just a few hours. But I had a long layover in Frankfurt.

4. Prepare Answers to Questions About Yourself

Conversation isn’t just about asking questions. People will want to know about you too. If you’re unsure of your English skills, prepare some answers in advance for the following questions to feel more at ease:

Where are you from?

What do you do?

What are you doing here?

Do you like your job?

How was your trip?

Are you having a good time?

What do you think of the weather?

What do you think of the movie/event/conference/restaurant?

Even when questions are specific, you can offer some general responses. For example:

Brian: How do you find the conference?

Amy: It’s really interesting. I especially liked the first speaker. What did you think?ž

5. Have a Plan to End the Conversation

However, all that you’ve learned doesn’t guarantee that the conversation will go smoothly. If you feel you have nothing more to say or haven’t connected with the person, here are a few polite ways to end the conversation:

Excuse me, I need to (find my friend/go to a meeting).

Well, it’s been lovely talking to you.

Best of luck.

Nice to meet you, Brian.Let me give you my card before I go.

Enjoy your time here!

6. Smile and be confident!

Most people will be happy that you approached them and talked to them. Even if you make mistakes, keep speaking. People will remember your smile and confidence more than a small error in conversation.

Have fun speaking English!

Erasmus, Erasmus blogs, Projects, Uncategorized

Erasmus Experience: Learning and Traveling for All Generations

Erasmus is not only for young people, but also for the elderly

Erasmus+ is a program that is innovative and inclusive, allowing all age groups to join and improve their skills. As life expectancy increases, so does the need for elderly people to receive additional training and education. One area that is particularly challenging to keep up with is rapid technological progress. In order for the elderly to live harmoniously and navigate in the 21st century, they need new skills. Through the "European Senior Exchange" project, we are focused on strengthening the digital skills of the elderly.

Through this project, we are focused not only on strengthening the health and physical abilities of the elderly, but also on mental health, the development of digital and language skills.

Throughout the 3 years of the project, elderly people participated in English language training that enabled them to communicate more easily and better with consciousness in a common and universal language.

Furthermore, in Kranj and Belgium, we learned how to use tools to make traveling easier.

As the last trip and training for our seniors, we visited Ghent. From Croatia, we had a team of 6 members made up of our dear students, teacher Domagoj and me. The training took place from May 15-19, and the topic was improving digital skills. The tools we adopted during the training were: the use of Google maps, and applications for public transport, such as Belgian Lijn, and their application for tracking train schedules.

In addition to digital skills, the social skills and connections we developed throughout this project were much more important.

We became richer for 40 new acquaintances shared across Europe, which enriched our lives and paved the way for us.

This experience was best described by the participants themselves:

Ankica Budimir: "This Erasmus trip to Ghent, for me, was indescribably beautiful, easy, educational, without any stress, even cheerful considering the team I was in." I met wonderful people and cities, learned to use applications that I have never used before."

Sjajna Zemčić: "I was in my own world and I was afraid of the courage with which I agreed to this Erasmus trip. And then Kranj opened up to me, many people for learning, socializing, walking, joy to show me how life is joy and happiness. And now the magic of Belgium, how to be relaxed and enjoy with good people. Most importantly, we learned (we should learn more) how to use computers and mobile phones to make every day easier and more beautiful in the beautiful areas of Kranj and Ghent. Thanks to the people in Kranj, Gent and the team. Lots and lots of praise means that the soul is touched."

Vesna Nikšić: "It was really a great pleasure for me to participate in this project, to see and learn a lot of things. The impressions from Kranj were wonderful, I think we "matched" well as a team and I was really looking forward to Belgium, which exceeded all expectations. I met so many wonderful and interesting people and I consider that the greatest value of the project. I am glad that I had the opportunity to see Kranj and Ljubljana and all the three cities we visited in Belgium, we walked and absorbed a lot, saw how everyday life works (e.g. public transport in Belgium), learned something about characteristic dishes, and especially Belgian chocolate and beer. The opportunity to listen and speak in English is precious to me and it is a big plus of this project. All the skills we learned at the workshops were both useful and fun. I'm sorry that the project is over, but somehow I believe that as a team we will continue to stay in touch and see each other for a coffee."

Katica Budimir: "This trip meant a lot to me, because when a person learns something, he is immediately richer, more satisfied. In addition to my knowledge of English and digital skills, on this trip I was enriched by pleasant human encounters and beautiful pictures of cities. Simply put, this trip was "soul food" for me. She would be overjoyed if there was a sequel."

Domagoj Biondić: "This is my fourth Erasmus trip under Jelena's baton and, just like the previous three times, it was absolutely fantastic. Visiting the country of the best chocolate and beer in the world is a truly unique experience. Every day was filled with adventures, unreal landscapes, fairy-tale buildings, places and events. In addition to all that, I learned how to use interesting, practical and very useful applications, and as an additional precious bonus I single out cooperation, connection, and socializing with other participants of this education. However, the most valuable gift that I personally received were all those wonderful moments spent with Ankica, Zabjana, Katica, Vesna and Jelena, which additionally taught me kindness, simplicity, patience, and living in the moment, and so generously provided me with the opportunity to practice everything those virtues. You are five in 5"

At the end of this trip with our wonderful participants and partners, we are grateful that we had the opportunity to witness the change we see in people during socializing, education and travel, because every new contact and learning enriches us and makes us better. We also remember with joy the memories that were given to us by the project participants who unfortunately left us: Giancarla, Dragica and Edvard. Thank you for everything.

Special thanks to the project managers: HIHSTAS from Belgium, and partners: CDI Ljubljana, LU Kranj, Agora from Italy

Thank you all and we hope to see you again soon.

Blog, Erasmus, Erasmus blogs, Uncategorized

Unlock Your English Potential and Create Unforgettable Memories in Split, Croatia

Are you looking for a quick and efficient way to improve your English language skills? An English Callan course in Split through Erasmus KA1 might be just what you need! With the Callan Method, you'll learn English quickly and easily, all while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Split and making new friends from around the world. And the best part? It's just one week long!

The benefits of studying with the Callan Method are numerous. With the dynamic and fast-paced teaching approach, you'll speak as much as possible, building your fluency and confidence. The method is designed to mimic the speech pattern of native speakers, so you'll practice speaking and listening in a natural way. The instant correction and repetition will help you to quickly identify and correct any mistakes, ensuring that you progress quickly and effectively.

And the best part of studying an intensive Callan course in Split through Erasmus KA1 is that you'll be doing it all while enjoying a beautiful holiday in one of Europe's most stunning destinations. Split is a city full of history, culture, and natural beauty. During your week-long stay, you'll have the opportunity to explore all that Split has to offer, from sampling the local cuisine to taking part in cultural activities and experiencing the vibrant nightlife.

By the end of the week, you'll feel a new level of confidence when speaking English, and you'll be able to express yourself more clearly and accurately. You'll have developed lightning-fast reflexes, allowing you to recall words and phrases quickly and easily. And best of all, you'll have had an unforgettable holiday experience in one of Europe's most beautiful destinations.

So why wait? Sign up for an intensive Callan course in Split through Erasmus KA1 today and start your journey towards improved English language skills and an unforgettable holiday experience!

Read more about our courses:

Speak English Confidently with the Callan Method

Empowering Digital Growth: A Digital Marketing Mastery Course for Schools & NGO's

English Course for Absolute Beginners

Top 10 reasons to visit Split with Erasmus+

Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Come to Split to Erasmus+ Courses

The Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Join Our Split Erasmus+ English Courses for Teachers

Read the blog!

Blog eng, English, Erasmus, Erasmus blogs, Uncategorized

KA1 Teacher Training: Master English with the Callan Method in Split, Croatia

Boost Your English Skills Through KA1 Teacher Training in Split

Are you a teacher seeking to enhance your English language proficiency? Discover the unique and effective Callan Method in the stunning setting of Split, Croatia, and say goodbye to conventional language learning methods that fall short.

The Callan Method: A Game-Changing Approach to Language Learning

The Callan Method, designed by Robin Callan in the 1960s, transforms language learning into an engaging game, keeping you motivated and focused throughout your journey. This innovative method, employed by thousands of students worldwide, emphasizes spoken English and conversation practice, allowing you to develop your language skills quickly.

Rapid Progress and Improved Pronunciation

One of the key advantages of the Callan Method is the swift progress students experience due to its strong focus on speaking and listening. As you constantly engage in conversation and practice correct pronunciation, you'll gain the confidence to use English in real-life situations.

A Highly Structured and Interactive Learning Experience

The Callan Method's structured approach combines vocabulary and grammar mastery with speaking and listening practice. This unique blend of elements ensures an effective language learning experience for students of all levels.

Maintain Focus and Track Your Progress

The Callan Method's interactive exercises and misdirection tactics help maintain your focus during lessons. Its structured nature also allows you to monitor your progress easily.

Discover the Beauty of Split, Croatia While Learning English

Immerse yourself in the language and culture of Split, Croatia, as you master English through the Callan Method. This picturesque coastal city, with its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, provides the ideal environment for language learning.

Boost Your Confidence and Create Lasting Memories

As you improve your English skills, you'll also gain confidence in your communication abilities, thanks to the Callan Method's emphasis on conversation practice. Moreover, the memories you create while learning in Split will make your language learning experience even more unforgettable.

Conclusion: Experience the Callan Method in Split, Croatia

Embrace the opportunity to learn English with the Callan Method through KA1 teacher training in Split, Croatia. Enhance your language proficiency, grow your communication confidence, and create lifelong memories in this beautiful city. With the Callan Method, you'll be speaking English confidently in no time!

Unlock the doors to a world of opportunity and join us on a journey of discovery and fun in beautiful Croatia!

Apply now!

By signing up you accept our Terms of Use

Join us in Split or Zagreb

Our English Course has one goal, and that is to free you from your fear of speaking English!

native speakers
full immersion course
dynamic and interactive classes

Apply here!

Read more about our courses:

English Course for Absolute Beginners With the Callan Method

Speak English Confidently with the Callan Method

Enhancing the European Dimension in Teaching and Learning

Make ICT and Outdoor Learning part of your clasroom

Supporting Diversity: Intercultural Classroom Management

English Course for Higher Management

Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Come to Split to Erasmus+ Courses

The Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Join Our Split Erasmus+ English Courses for Teachers

Read the blog!

Erasmus, Erasmus blogs, Uncategorized

Learn English in Croatia with Erasmus+

A New Language and Adventure Combined

Are you looking for a chance to improve your English while enjoying a sun-soaked Summer adventure? Look no further than the Learn English in Croatia with Erasmus+ program, which provides the opportunity to learn English with Native speakers in one of Europe's most stunning nations.

Enroll in a Callan Method English course to learn in a lively, engaging setting while being surrounded by beautiful tourist attractions and English-speaking locals.

Why Use the Callan Method to Learn English?

The Callan method is a fast-paced, organized, and effective method of learning English that has been around for more than 50 years. With a focus on improving speaking abilities, this method gives students the self-assurance to actively participate in discussions and increase their fluency.

To achieve optimum retention, the method is led by native English speakers and places an emphasis on repetition and active engagement. To help you overcome your anxiety of speaking in front of others and to enhance your grammar, pronunciation, and sentence structure, the teachers are qualified to offer real-time comments and adjustments.

Learn more

Have an unforgettable Adventure in Croatia with Erasmus Plus

Have the best of both worlds, while you enhance your English skills, you will also have the opportunity to explore the beautiful tourist destinations of Zagreb or Split. These cities are bustling with locals who are more than happy to practice their English with tourists. Also with so many other tourists around you will have plenty of chances to practise your English.

You'll also have the opportunity to try new foods, immerse yourself in local culture, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Why Split

Split is a city of great beauty and rich history. It was founded as a Greek colony in the 3rd century BC and was later conquered by the Romans. The city is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, with a wealth of ancient architecture and cultural landmarks. The Palace of Diocletian, an ancient fortress that now serves as a museum and a cultural center, is a must-visit destination. In addition to the historical and cultural attractions, Split is also known for its delicious food and wine. The local cuisine includes fresh seafood, locally grown vegetables, and a variety of Mediterranean spices.

The city also serves as a gateway to some of the most beautiful islands in the Adriatic, such as Hvar, Brac, and Vis, which are known for their pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and lively nightlife. A visit to Split is sure to be an unforgettable experience that combines language learning with adventure, history, and culinary delights.

Read Top 10 reasons to go to Split with Erasmus+

The Perfect Destination for Teachers and Educators

The purpose of this Erasmus+ course is to give teachers and other educators the resources they need to gain confidence in speaking English in a professional capacity. It is also perfect for anyone looking to advance professionally or personally by honing their language abilities.

The training is intended for intermediate and advanced English speakers, and participants will be assessed before the course even starts on their language skills. The course will be adjusted to your level based on the results to make sure that everyone gets the most out of their experience.

Achieving Confidence and Fluency

The course's objective is to provide participants with the knowledge and abilities they need to speak English fluently and with confidence. You will actively participate in English conversations and workshops throughout the course, and you will receive instruction from qualified teachers on how to employ proper pronunciation and sentence structure.

Additionally, you will have the chance to develop your written communication skills for emails and letters as well as your spoken communication abilities for meetings, calls, and presentations. With the help of the Callan Method, you will be able to achieve fluency and confidence in your English speaking abilities in a short period of time.

The Cost of Adventure and Learning

The course participation fee is 480,00 EUR (covered by Erasmus plus fund) and includes all course materials, training and activities in the beautiful tourist destinations of Zagreb and Split.

Find out more about the Erasmus+ program, our organization and trainers, and payment options by visiting our website.

the Erasmus+ program provides a unique opportunity for teachers and educators to improve their English skills and immerse themselves in an unforgettable adventure in Croatia. Join the Callan Method English course and take the first step towards a journey of language and adventure!

Learn more

Unlock the doors to a world of opportunity and join us on a journey of discovery and fun in beautiful Croatia!

Apply now!

By signing up you accept our Terms of Use

Check out our English Language courses for teachers and other Erasmus+ courses

English Course for Absolute Beginners With the Callan Method

Speak English Confidently with the Callan Method

Enhancing the European Dimension in Teaching and Learning

Make ICT and Outdoor Learning part of your clasroom

Supporting Diversity: Intercultural Classroom Management

Empowering Digital Growth: A Digital Marketing Mastery Course for Schools & NGO'S

Erasmus, Erasmus blogs, Uncategorized

Top 10 reasons to go to Split with Erasmus+

What makes a great Erasmus+ programme? Is it the innovative courses, the breathtaking location, or the inspiring people you meet along the way?

Well we would like to suggest to go to Split, Croatia with Erasmus+ this Summer for the above reasons. Our Erasmus+ offerings encompass all these elements and more, promising an educational journey that's as enriching as it is unforgettable. Here are 10 reasons why to go to Split for your Erasmus+ programme this Summer

1. Explore Diocletian’s Palace - an ancient Roman palace located in Split. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see and offers visitors the opportunity to explore its many chambers, courtyards, and subterranean chambers.

2. Taste the Local Cuisine - Split offers a unique mix of regional Croatian and Mediterranean cuisine. Try some of the local specialties such as Dalmatian pašticada, pršut and cheese, as well as fresh seafood.

3. Enjoy the Beaches - the crystal clear Adriatic Sea and its numerous beaches make Split a great destination for lovers of the sun and sea. Relax on the sandy beach at Bačvice or go for a swim at pebble beach, Kašjuni.

4. Go Island Hopping - Split is a great base for exploring nearby islands. Take a day trip to the picturesque islands of Brač and Hvar, or take a ferry to stunning Korčula.

Learn to Speak English Confidently with Native Speakers in Beautiful Croatia!

Apply now!

5. Visit Marjan Forest Park - a large, wooded hill on the west side of Split. Take some time to explore the many trails, scenic views, and churches in this beautiful park.

6. Try the Local Wine - Croatia is known for its delicious wines, and Split offers some of the best. Visit a local winery to sample the local wines and find your new favourite.

7. Appreciate the Architecture - Split’s architecture is a mix of old and new. Take a stroll through the old town and appreciate its Baroque and Gothic buildings, and modern structures.

8. Discover the History - Split has a rich history, from ancient Roman times to the present day. Take a tour of the historic sites and learn about Split’s past.

9. Participate in Festivals - Split is full of festivals throughout the year. Join in the fun and take part in the celebrations of art, music, food, and culture.

10. Experience the Nightlife - Split offers a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of bars, clubs, and pubs. Spend a night out on the town!

Learn English with Erasmus+ and Improve your Skills in Split!

Speak English Confidently with the Callan Method

English Course for Absolute Beginners With the Callan Method

English for Higher Management and Professionals

Unlock the doors to a world of opportunity and join us on a journey of discovery and fun in beautiful Croatia!

Apply now!

By signing up you accept our Terms of Use

Blog eng, English, Erasmus, Uncategorized

Empowering Women in Agrifood

At Initiative – Centre for Education, we are proud to have been given the opportunity to participate as an educational support for Empowering Women in Agrifood (EWA) programme, organized by the EIT Food. EIT Food is supported by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), a body of the European Union.

Empowering Women in Agrifood (EWA) programme is aimed at reinforcing female leadership and supporting women with business ideas or female-led startups in early stage of development operating in the agrifood sector. In 2022 edition 130 talented female entrepreneurs from 13 countries (Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Portugal, Spain and Turkey) are going through a 6-month entrepreneurial programme tailored to develop business solutions for specific challenges in the agrifood business. The goal of this initiative is to provide comprehensive consulting of the participants' career, so that they can successfully set up a sustainable agrifood business.

One of the supporting activities of the programme is a dedicated 3-months training with the focus on improving English communication skills in the international agrifood business area, especially for the purpose of creating a good business pitch. EWA participants will receive the necessary knowledge, confidence and support to fulfill and exceed their desires, which will lead them to successfully start and develop a sustainable business. The program is intended for women regardless of their age, family situation or work experience.

The ultimate goal of EWA programme is to overcome the existing gender gap in the agri-food sector with a special focus on RIS targeted countries promoting inclusivity and diversity among business founders and increasing the number of startups founded by women.

We have prepared two programs for female participants depending on their level of knowledge: Grow Your English and Speak English Confidently; and as motivation, please watch this VIDEO intended for all women

About EIT Food

EIT Food is the world’s largest and most dynamic food innovation community. We accelerate innovation to build a future-fit food system that produces healthy and sustainable food for all.

Supported by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), a body of the European Union, we invest in projects, organisations and individuals that share our goals for a healthy and sustainable food system. We unlock innovation potential in businesses and universities, and create and scale agrifood startups to bring new technologies and products to market. We equip entrepreneurs and professionals with the skills needed to transform the food system and put consumers at the heart of our work, helping build trust by reconnecting them to the origins of their food.

We are one of nine innovation communities established by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), an independent EU body set up in 2008 to drive innovation and entrepreneurship across Europe.

Find out more at www.eitfood.eu or follow us via social media: Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram.

Erasmus blogs, Uncategorized

Alternative Ways of Teaching and Storytelling in Education

Storytelling in Education

As part of the “Creativity for Innovation“ project, we visited the Storytelling Centre in Amsterdam together with our colleagues from the Europass Teacher Academy, who were also also partners in the project.

The aim of the project was to strengthen the organisations involved in adult education and alternative methods of teaching, storytelling and creative writing. The workshops were held by trainers from the Storytelling Centre in the Netherlands.

What is storytelling and how can this skill help us in teaching?

How to apply the ancient skill of storytelling as a means of teaching and progress was one of the questions our educators were posed during this workshop.

Telling stories is one of the oldest human characteristics. The Storytelling Centre says that applying this skill in education is the foundation of quality education. Sharing stories and creating stories together leads to stronger human connections, personal and professional growth, as well as successful learning and integration. We ourselves, as a team, witnessed growth and learning through applying storytelling techniques.

Our educator, Maria Grgić Skendrović, says:

“Thanks to the training I am able to delve deeper into our core materials and encourage our learners to give more complex ideas. One tool that I am going to incorporate is ‘the hero’s journey.’ With this tool, all educators can ask appropriate questions to encourage longer, more complex ideas in English.“

By applying various techniques, including the “Tree of Life“, we learnt how to do exercises in 5 phases, prompting storytelling on many levels:

1.Teambuilding

2. Creativity

3. Awareness

4. Telling stories

5. Evaluation

Our educator, Domagoj Biondić, says:

„The one thing I consider to be of most value to me is a simple fact that everything that was taught and given to us throughout the workshop was put into action and experienced immediately which added extra value to it and became a part of us. My personal favourite being, and mentioned earlier, Tree of Life"

Alternative Ways of Teaching

New teaching trends are interesting to experience. The educators at the Storytelling Centre focus on just that – experience which then leads to connections, openness, creativity, and most importantly, learning and growth. Lifelong education is definitely trending, but the main question is – how can we encourage adults to learn again? Can we learn in a fun and relaxed way, or is learning essentially a strict form of transferring and absorbing knowledge. We all know that it isn't so, because the process of learning itself is stressful, especially for e.g. marginalised groups, refugees, asylum seekers. People who are exposed to existential crises have it harder when it comes to concentrating and learning. That is exactly why the Alternative Ways site was developed, as it helps educators find a “different“ way. Alternative methods of teaching aren't complicated. They actually seem quite simple, and we essentially just have to remind ourselves of them. It brings back learning in a fun, relaxed and creative way. It provides us with experiential learning and relaxes us by teaching us through games. And when something is as easy as a game, then it really isn't that hard. This situational learning offers great opportunities for connecting and broadening minds, and most importantly, integration into society.

Our educator, Ivana Pezo, says:

„l have definitely learned how to be a better teamplayer, as a lot of playful games were introduced to us at the very beginning to make us feel comfortable with one another and not afraid of making mistakes, which I consider to be integral for every learning proccess. I instantly saw that as something I can apply in my teaching, relaxing students by connecting them. „

The whole process of learning through storytelling and using alternative methods of teaching is something that looks so simple, natural and easily applicable. The most interesting challenge was definitely the “Lego Game“, where you can actually see how challenging communication is. The whole process of sending and receiving a message is ambiguous. This is why these kinds of courses are perfect for developing awareness and the skill of telling stories, i.e.: communication and sending messages, which in our case is knowledge. All these newly-learnt skills definitely help with connecting and integrating students through language, and we have more success with the learning process, a.k.a. learning with pleasure!

Željka Novaković

✔ This project was co-funded by the Erasmus+ programme.

Erasmus+ enriching lives, broadening minds.

🇪🇺@Agencija za mobilnost

Projects, Uncategorized

We are never too old to start learning

Learning new things keeps our brains sharp. Keeping curious, active and thirsty for knowledge are traits we should all cultivate, and this is most important for senior citizens. Not only does it keep our brains alert, but we can meet new people through education, make new social contacts, and improve our overall psychosocial and emotional health. Education opens the door to new friendships, and travel gives us a new outlook on life.

That is exactly what happened at our school in Zagreb between the 11th and 15th of March when we organised a partnership meeting and training session as part of the European Senior Exchange project.

The aim of the training workshop was to introduce senior citizens to the Callan Method and improve their English language knowledge.

Partner organisations CDU Ljubljana and LudskaUniverza Kranja also attended, as well as the project holder, HIHTAST.

A total of 15 people participated in the workshop.

The first day was reserved for introductions. Our organisation introduced the Callan Method, as well as the whole array of work our organisation is involved in.

After getting familiar with the Callan Method, the participants were tested to determine their level of English knowledge and subsequently divided into groups, so that they were ready to learn English for 5 days.

Working with senior citizens is a pleasure on so many levels. The elderly are aware of their abilities and have experience with lifelong learning, which they can easily apply to language learning. The Callan Method itself enables learning to be easier, faster and, most importantly, focused on speaking – allowing students to communicate in English as easily and quickly as possible.

On Day One, we had already divided the participants into two groups – an advanced group and an advanced beginners group. As is the case with the Callan Method, teachers from various English-speaking countries took turns teaching their lessons. Participants were able to get to know teachers from Canada, South Africa and the UK. The Belgian participants were amazed that they could speak Dutch with our South African teacher J

Besides the Callan Method course, participants had a chance to learn digital skills, and they created their own collage using the PicCollage.com and Snapseed apps.

To provide our participants with a cultural experience, we prepared a Callan Method course for them in the Croatian language, as well as a pop quiz about Croatian culture.

Our teacher, Tamara, prepared a digital 'scavengehunt' for them, which lead the participants on an exploration of Zagreb using the Actionbound app. To participate in the digital tour, participants had to learn how to use the app with a QR codescanner, as well as the app itself. On top of that, participants had the task of discovering the wonders of Zagreb within a set time, competing to see who could solve the puzzles first.

We concluded the day with a cultural dinner at Medvedgrad Pub, where everyone had the opportunity to try traditional specialties and local beer.

On the last two days, we held our 'Talk Like A Native' workshop, and continued with leaning English.

On our last day, we enjoyed some Belgian chocolate and coffee, and had the evaluation.

In conclusion, we provided the senior citizens with a lifelong learning experience we will all cherish and remember!

Thanks to everyone for a wonderful week of learning and socialising!

Blog, Erasmus, Erasmus blogs, Uncategorized

Teacher Training English Course in Zagreb

Erasmus+ experience in Zagreb (A wonderful Erasmus+ experience in Zagreb)

Our Erasmus participants flew from Spain to Zagreb to attend our English Course. Congratulations to Carmen Lagares García, Lucia i Daniel Pérez Mora from CEIP Virgen del Carmen on finishing our General English Course for Teachers with the Callan Method!

With the Callan Method for English language learning, our trained teachers make participants speak from the moment they enter the classroom. Our dynamic and fast-paced method is taught by native speakers who ask participants questions designed for their language proficiency. The teachers then assist learners in their answers and correct any inconsistencies in pronunciation, grammar usage and sentence structure.

https://inicijativa.biz/en/erasmus-plus/general-english/

Educator Adam about his experience with this lovely group:

“I had the privilege of working with Lucia and Daniel.

We concentrated on revision, new work, question construction, and auxiliary verbs (both primary and modals).

Their engagement in the Callan Method's revision and new work was noteworthy. They were eager not just to comprehend, but also to get it right and apply it in their own way.

It was enjoyable to work through the process of forming questions. Their originality shone through. It was a wonderful way for me to see and grasp their thought process, and it allowed us the opportunity to get to know one other better.

They were excellent at auxiliary verbs and understood how they aided the main verb. Tense, mood, voice, and modality were all incorporated. The auxiliary verbs have, has, and had were used in a variety of contexts.

It was a pleasure to meet them, and I wish them the best of luck and hope to work with them again in the near future.”

Daniel has also written blog about his Erasmus+ experience, which you can read here:

Día 7: Thank you Croatia (ceipvirgendelcarmenerasmusplus.blogspot.com)

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