Module 1: Introduction to Non-Formal Education

This module establishes the foundational understanding of non-formal education, its significance and value within both formal and informal settings. It provides an understanding of the attitudes, skills and boundaries educators in non-formal setups need to adopt in their encounters with youth. This module also provides an in-depth understanding of the relevance and impact of non-formal education. This is achieved through a variety of real-life examples of non-formal settings in different contexts. Moreover, the learners will be provided with a broad overview of other educational approaches, to which theories of non-formal learning can be compared.

MQF/EQF: 4
ECTS Value: 1
Duration:
Contact Hours: 6
Self-Study Hours: 16
Assessment Hours: 3

Learning Outcomes:
Competencies
At the end of the module/unit the learners will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:
– Be able to reap the benefits and overcome the challenges of non-formal education.
– Create and maintain a meaningful and appropriate educator–learner relationship within a formal educational setting that allows non-formal education.
– Create, plan and work in non-formal educational activities, within the different professional areas.
– Keep professional boundaries in a non-formal educational setup.

Knowledge
At the end of the module/unit the learners will have been exposed to the following:
– Recognize the benefits and challenges of working in a formal educational setting that allows non-formal education..
– Describe general principles and key values of non-formal education.
– Identify attitudes and skills required to establish a relationship with learners..
– Identify attitudes and skills required to manage non-formal educational activities.
– Awareness of different educational approaches.
– Ethical principles required in a non-formal framework.

Skills
At the end of the module/unit the learners will have acquired the following skills:
– Demonstrate creativity and innovation skills to create, plan and work in non-formal educational activities.
– Show the necessary skills to establish and maintain an educator–learner relationship within a formal educational setting that allows non-formal education.
– Combine different educational approaches according to the needs of the learners and suitable to different contexts.
– Practice ethically.

Mode of Delivery
This module combines formal and non-formal learning approaches, integrating theoretical concepts with practical application.

Sessions include presentations, discussions, hands-on practice, and interactive activities. You will explore a range of resources to support the creation of engaging non-formal learning environments, while actively participating in group work and discussions that encourage the exchange of ideas and experiences.

Throughout the module, you will be encouraged to apply what you learn within your own professional context. Ongoing feedback and guidance from trainers and peers will support your learning and development.

Assessment
Attendance is compulsory since this module requires the active participation of the learners (10% of the overall mark). The participants’ learning progress will be assessed through their active participation in discussions, group activities, and assignments. Oral feedback and support will be provided throughout the teaching and learning process.

Each learner will keep a reflection journal of the sessions being delivered during this module. The purpose of this journal is to reflect on their reactions, insights, and critical analyses. Participants will be requested to share in a group what they have attained during the sessions of this module. For this module, the learner is expected to present an in-depth reflection on the role and value of non-formal education, and the knowledge and skills gained in creating a non-formal educational activity for youth.

At the end of the module the participants are given an evaluation sheet to help them reflect on whether the learning outcomes have been achieved.