Invited Erasmus Experts: Enriching Learning in Schools and Educational Organizations
In the ever-evolving landscape of education and professional development, inviting expert professionals into classrooms and educational organizations has become a powerful strategy for enhancing learning experiences.
In this blog, we will discuss the significance of including experts in educational practice, and offer suggestions on how to manage this process efficiently. Furthermore, we will examine the notion of experts, who are experts, why and how to invite experts to your school or educational organization. Also, how this practice aligns with the goals of the Erasmus+ programme guide. The latest Programme edition has introduced a feature called Invited Expert in Key Action 1 (KA1) that allows you to invite experts from other countries for 2 to 6 days. This is a convenient way for every teacher in your school to participate in a training course without having to travel outside their town.
Who Are Experts and How Do We Classify Them?
Experts are highly knowledgeable individuals who possess exceptional skills and extensive experience in a specific field. They have a profound understanding of their subject matter, and their peers and the industry often recognize them. Experts can be categorized into different groups based on their areas of expertise.
According to the new Erasmus+ Programme Guide, experts are professionals from abroad who can help improve teaching, training, and learning at the receiving organization.
They may provide training to all staff, helping teachers implement new methodologies and transferring good practices in management. That can only be any person from an EU Member State or third country connected to the Programme.
Generally, we can classify experts into different groups, for example:
- Subject Matter Experts (SMEs): These individuals have profound knowledge and skills in a specific academic or professional subject. They are sought after for their in-depth understanding of a particular field.
- Industry Experts: Industry experts have extensive experience and knowledge within a specific sector. They often contribute to advancements in their industry and are well-versed in industry trends and best practices.
- Practitioners and Professionals: Individuals actively engaged in the practice of a particular profession, bringing real-world insights and practical experiences to the table.
Why to Invite an Expert to Your School or Educational Organization
When applying for a short-term KA1 project or accreditation, we recommend including at least one expert to visit your school in your application. In the past, the European Commission has highly valued projects that have implemented significant changes in the Erasmus+ Programme.
- International Collaboration: The Erasmus programme emphasizes international collaboration and the exchange of ideas. Inviting experts from different countries and cultural backgrounds aligns with the Erasmus goals, fostering cross-cultural understanding and promoting a global perspective.
- Skill Development: Experts can contribute to the skill development of organizational members, aligning with the programme’s focus on enhancing participants’ employability and professional competencies.
- Knowledge Transfer: The programme encourages the transfer of knowledge and best practices. Bringing in experts facilitates the exchange of industry insights and cutting-edge information, contributing to the overall growth and development of the organization.
- Diverse Learning Environments: Hosting international experts creates diverse learning environments, reflecting the Erasmus programme’s commitment to providing participants with a rich, multicultural experience. This exposure broadens perspectives and promotes inclusivity.
Tips on How to Bring an Expert
Choosing the right experts for your classroom, organization, or event is a critical step in ensuring a meaningful and impactful experience. Here are some key considerations and steps to guide you in the process of selecting experts:
- Define Objectives: Clearly outline your goals and objectives for bringing in an expert. Whether it’s to enhance classroom learning, address specific organizational challenges, or provide insights into industry trends, having a clear purpose will guide your selection process.
- Identify Relevant Expertise: Match the expertise of the potential experts with your defined objectives. Consider the specific knowledge, skills, and experiences required to meet your goals. This may involve identifying subject matter experts, industry leaders, or professionals with a track record of success in a particular field.
- Leverage Networks: Tap into your professional networks or collaborate with industry associations to identify suitable experts. Networking platforms, both online and offline, can be valuable resources for connecting with potential Erasmus experts..
- Provide Context to Experts: Share the context of the learning environment with the expert, including the curriculum, student background, and specific topics you want them to address. This ensures that their contributions are tailored to meet the needs of the audience.
- Interactive Sessions: Encourage interactive sessions that allow students to engage with the expert. Q&A sessions, discussions, and case studies can foster a dynamic learning experience.
- Consider Accessibility: Ensure that the selected expert is accessible and available during the timeframe you require. Some experts may have busy schedules or travel commitments, so it’s important to confirm their availability and willingness to participate in your initiative.
- Seek Diversity of Perspectives: Look for experts with diverse perspectives and experiences. Bringing in professionals from different backgrounds can enrich the organizational culture and stimulate innovative thinking.
- Create a Welcoming Environment: Ensure that the organizational culture is welcoming and supportive of external experts. Communicate the value of their contributions and provide the necessary resources for a seamless integration.
- Establish Clear Expectations: Communicate your expectations to the expert, outlining the scope of their involvement, objectives, and the anticipated outcomes. This transparency is essential for a successful collaboration.
- Stay Flexible: Be open to adjusting your criteria based on the evolving needs of your audience or organization. Flexibility in the selection process allows you to adapt to unforeseen circumstances or emerging opportunities.
By carefully considering these factors, you can select experts who not only meet your specific objectives but also contribute to a rich and engaging experience for your audience or organization. Whether in an educational or professional setting, the right experts can make a significant impact on the quality of learning and the achievement of your goals.
Invite an Erasmus+ Courses Expert
With a commitment to open-mindedness, extensive experience, and passion for innovation, our Erasmus Courses Croatia experts are ready to guide you towards excellence in international education. Our teachers at Maksima Teacher Training Centre are specialized in a variety of topics and subjects. Go through our course offer and choose the one most fitting for your teacher training experience and needs.
Meet some of our experts
Ivana Čoko
Areas of expertise
- Artificial Intelligence for Teachers
- Game-Based Learning
- Soft Skills
- Holistic learning approaches (intellectual, emotional, social, physical, artistic, creative and spiritual development)
Meet Ivana Čoko, a foreign language teacher with extensive experience in education. She employs a holistic approach to education, nurturing soft skills and critical thinking in students. Ivana integrates game-based learning and AI in the curriculum to enhance hard and socio-emotional skills. Her mission is to empower teachers and students, making her an invaluable asset to any institution. Contact Ivana for the Erasmus+ “Invited expert” program.
Dario Čaljkušić
Areas of expertise
- Mental Health and Well-being
- Mindfulness
- Critical Thinking
- Special Needs and Inclusion
- Stress management and Burnout prevention
Dario Čaljkušić is a graduate psychologist with a Master of Arts in developmental psychology from Lewis and Clark College, Portland, Oregon, USA. He shares profound understanding and exceptional teaching practices through teacher training courses. Dario has extensive experience in teaching demotivated individuals and preventing drop-outs. He gives lectures and seminars on Mindfulness, emotional intelligence, bullying prevention, stress reduction, and stimulating and motivating techniques in the classroom.
Mirjana Gaćina Bilin
Areas of expertise
- AI in Education
- Digital Tools
- New Technologies
- Digital Storytelling
Mirjana Gaćina Bilin is a professor of mathematics and informatics at the Health School in Split. She is a prominent teacher trainer at Maksima Teacher Training Centre, designing and leading courses on digital media, new technologies, and artificial intelligence for educators across Europe. Mirjana is also associated with the publishing house “Školska knjiga” and organizes workshops as part of the “e-Schools” project. She has been recognized three times as one of the 500 most successful educators in Croatia and is committed to continuous professional development in education and technology.
Mirna Vojnović
Areas of expertise
- Project Management
- Digital Marketing
- Social Media Networks
Mirna Vojnović has a Master’s degree in Marketing and a qualification in “Internet Marketing and Branding”. She has certificates in Digital Marketing, Google Analytics, and Google Ads. Mirna participated in two EU-supported Lifelong Education Programs, contributing to the “Shaping Fair Cities” project. In her workplace, she is a co-creator of the organization’s digital marketing strategy, responsible for social media and email marketing, Google Ads and Analytics, content marketing, customer communication, and lead generation. Mirna has successfully coordinated two Erasmus+ KA2 projects for her organization, focused on innovations in language learning and teaching, with duties encompassing project coordination, communication, representation, dissemination strategy, and project reporting.
Vesna Dobronić
Areas of expertise
- Marine Biology
- Outdoor Education
- Ecology and Sustainability
Vesna Dobronić, prof. biology and chemistry advisor – she gained part of her experience as a professional associate biologist at the State University Park Prirode Vrana Lake, and has been working as a teacher in III. gymnasium in Split for 18 years. She continuously works with gifted students and actively participates as a mentor at the Center of Excellence in Natural Sciences. She shares her experience in working with students as well as his knowledge of the self-sustainability and biodiversity of indigenous aquatic and coastal environments to teachers across Europe as part of the Erasmus project course. Through her work, she motivates students to self-initiative while encouraging teamwork and collaborative learning, promoting a scientific approach to work and promoting sustainable development.
Ivan Ivanišević
Areas of expertise
- Project Management
- Finance Planning and Analysis
- Project Funding Coordinator
Ivan Ivanišević holds a Bachelor’s degree in Management and possesses a certificate in the Management of EU projects. At his workplace, he oversees all financial-related matters, handles customer communication, and organizes participant social programs. Ivan has demonstrated his proficiency by successfully participating in two Erasmus+ KA2 projects, where he meticulously managed all financial details. Additionally, he actively contributes to the strategic planning and implementation of organizational objectives.
Conclusions
Inviting experts to classrooms and organizations enhances learning and promotes growth. To do this effectively, understand who they are, classify them, and follow effective tips. Aligning this with Erasmus principles enriches learning and promotes global competency.
Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about this topic and our Erasmus experts!
info@erasmuscoursescroatia.com