Trainings for REVIS facilitators in Croatia were held online, via Zoom, 9–11 September. The training was led by two trainers and a coordinator from the REVIS project for Croatia, and was attended by 20 psychologists, pedagogues and teachers from 10 high schools.
As the age and experience of the participants varied greatly, the organizers tried to consider and meet the needs of all. Therefore, time was set aside to share information and practical advice related to the implementation of workshops with those without much experience, but many practical activities were included for those with experience who needed practice in specific areas relevant to their school setting.
The trainers reported coming away with rich and diverse experiences. "We were glad to meet our colleagues from all over Croatia, motivated and interested in protecting children and getting involved in additional activities to contribute to their welfare. We believe that this training enabled an interesting exchange of opinions and ideas. A piece of advice for our fellow colleagues, trainers from other countries: prepare a schedule and the materials needed for the training in advance. This enabled our training to go smoothly so that we could have more space to dedicate ourselves to the participants."
Attendees provided positive feedback not only on the content of the training, but also on the way in which it was organized to stimulate an exchange of experience, provided practice and remain flexible. They especially noted:
- The preparedness of the trainers, the patience to go through all the details, information and questions related to the project with the participants.
- Group work and activities in which all participants could practice. I look forward to implementing the project!
- New ideas for energizers, clarification of individual activities from the manual
- A dynamic day, active involvement of all participants, great examples
- Practicing facilitation of activities, discussions
- I liked the organization the most, but also the flexibility
- Atmosphere, well-planned timing of activities
Trainers and organizers encountered some challenges along the way related to working online. Although the teachers had previous experience with online education, they also initially saw it as a challenge. Some participants complained about the length of the training and the engagement required of them. Although most participants recognized the value of the knowledge and experience they gained from the training, some felt that the theoretical part was too long, and that more time should have been devoted to the activities and practical work. The organizers wanted to share knowledge and practical guidance on conducting workshops in schools, and some participants expressed concern about the number of workshops and maintaining student’s concentration and engagement, but about how to organize these activities considering their other teaching obligations.
The more critical feedback suggested:
- Too many activities in a short time, and considering other commitments, great engagement of participants, especially as some have to hold a 45-minute workshop. On the other hand, too many hours to spend in front of the computer, leading to a lack of concentration.
- I'm not sure if there is a need for a three-day training. I am also not sure how realistic it is to conduct 17 workshops in 2 classes.
- Maybe the theoretical introduction and the whole preparation was too long for me. I would like us to focus more on the implementation and clarification of modules and activities, practical guidelines, exchange ideas on how to be as effective as possible.
- I am happy that we are participating in this project as a school! I see the only concern in that there are so many workshops and I am worried about the future of the workshops.
However, by using various interactive tools, energizer activities and giving participants enough breaks, many of these challenges were overcome. Although it may seem time-consuming, it is worthwhile for participants to try to carry out the activities in the handbook. Other trainers should note the importance of having clearly defined tasks and expectations, so participants can organize and fit these activities into their work schedule.
At the end of the training, the participants expressed high levels of motivation and willingness to start implementing this project. Moreover, they also stated that they would like more students to participate in similar activities, to continue addressing violence against and among children even after this project.
Co-funded by the Rights, Equality and Citizenship Programme of the European Union (2014–2020)