Within the framework of the European project VOICE (Vocational Opportunities and Integration for Refugee Community Empowerment), in which Arrabal-AID participates as a partner entity, we have successfully completed the pilot and testing phase of the initiative’s digital educational resources.
Throughout different sessions organized both in person and virtually, a total of 52 people have actively participated testing the 13 training modules designed to enhance employability, entrepreneurship and digital inclusion of young people and people in situations or at risk of social exclusion, with a special focus on the refugee community of Ukraine.
Four piloting activities adapted to diverse profiles
To ensure a comprehensive evaluation of the OER (Open Educational Resources) platform, Arrabal-AID organized four testing activities adapted to different profiles, realities, and needs:
1. Face-to-face session with 33 Ukrainian university students:Conducted using a blended learning methodology, the students explored career guidance tools, group dynamics, and digital skills within the context of the European labor market. The session fostered mutual support, the exchange of experiences, and social cohesion in a safe and inclusive environment.
2. Intensive piloting with 8 young people:Held in Málaga during an intensive workshop, this group included participants from Spain, Poland, and Portugal who were undertaking their first work placements and internships in the social sector. They tested the platform in both Spanish and English, highlighting the ease of use of the content for young professionals.
3. Training activity with 7 participants:Aimed at young people from vulnerable groups in Spain registered with the Youth Guarantee program, this activity prioritized the development of basic digital skills, preparation for job interviews, and job training focused on local sectors such as tourism and services.
4. E-learning workshop with 4 Ukrainian participants:Developed through guided videoconferences and independent work. It delved into modules on personal branding, professional use of social media, basic entrepreneurship, and job search strategies.
The most valued content: Employability and digital presence
The overall feedback from participants and the facilitation team has been very positive.
Among the highlights of the VOICE platform are:
• CV and personal branding module:It was the highest-rated content. Participants learned not only how to structure their resumes, but also how to tailor them to each job application and how to use professional portals and social networks (such as LinkedIn) to enhance their profiles.
• Gamification and dynamic learning:Self-assessment quizzes, interactive games, and progress badges helped maintain high motivation throughout the training.
• Issuance of certificates:The possibility of downloading a certificate upon completion of the modules was a key incentive, adding value to their resumes.
The Voice of the participants
“The VOICE platform is a very promising tool for modernizing education. It not only transmits knowledge, but also helps create a useful ecosystem for both personal and professional development.””That’s what one of the participating students pointed out.”
“The modules on social media show us how to use the applications we use daily in a professional way to promote products, services, or business ideas.”, highlighted one of the young participants in the evaluation questionnaires.
Next steps in the VOICE project
Following the validation of these four experiences in Spain by Arrabal-AID, the results will be integrated into the consortium’s global report, along with those of the other European partners. This work will allow for the refinement of an open, free, and transferable platform that continues to support young people and refugee communities in their socio-professional integration throughout Europe.
To learn more about this initiative and access its resources, you can visit the project’s official website:
https://www.voice-inclusion.eu/
