Miscellaneous

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BonJour! Presentation on the ICERI2024 (Seville)

PeterMaz BonJour, Flipped Learning, Miscellaneous, Project

In an era where digital media dominates communication and information, the BonJour! Project addresses a pressing need: enhancing media literacy for older adults. With a focus on equipping seniors aged 55+ with the skills to critically evaluate media, identify fake news, and create their own digital content, this initiative is a step towards bridging the generational digital divide and fostering social activism. As an innovation, media educators are developed. To use a Flipped Learning 3.0 approach, a low-threshold learning platform is developed. All these innovations were presented at the ICERI Conference.

A New Role: Media Educators for the Elderly

One of the project’s key innovations is the creation of a new professional role: Media Educators for the Elderly. Despite the increasing importance of digital literacy, no specialised figures currently address the unique needs of senior learners. By training educators with tailored skills, the BonJour! Project supports older adults and contributes to the professionalisation of this essential field. This type of educator was a minor topic at the ICERI conference.

The Flipped Learning Approach – ICERI Presentation

The Flipped Learning 3.0 (FL3) strategy, developed by Peter Mazohl and Harald Makl, lies at the heart of the project’s methodology. This approach incorporates:

  • An Individual Learning Space: A low-threshold platform designed with accessibility in mind, featuring clear navigation, large fonts, high contrast, simple language, and multimedia content with subtitles.
  • A Group Learning Space: Facilitating collaborative, face-to-face learning to reinforce skills and build confidence.

This innovative framework was showcased at ICERI2024, Europe’s largest conference on education, research, and innovation, where it garnered significant interest and positive feedback from over 800 attendees.

ICERI Conference 2024 - EBI presented the BonJour! Project.
Preparing for the session: ICERI2024 Conference in Seville
ICERI Conference 2024 - EBI presented the BonJour! Project.
The conference room fills – we will start soon!
ICERI Conference 2024 - EBI presented the BonJour! Project.
Peter Mazohl was chair of the session in Adult Education and presented the paper together with Harald Makl.
ICERI Conference 2024 - EBI presented the BonJour! Project.
Harald Makl during the BonJour! Presentation.

Accessible Learning for All

The project’s training course has been meticulously designed to meet the needs of elderly learners, often unfamiliar with digital tools. The platform features:

  • Barrier-free design: Enhancing accessibility with customisable settings, clear layouts, and interactive multimedia content.
  • Engagement tools: Including self-evaluation exercises, interactive videos, and educational games to foster active learning and improve knowledge retention.
  • Focus on essential skills: Prioritising foundational levels of Bloom’s Taxonomy—remembering and understanding—through selective application exercises.

This approach ensures that seniors are not only consumers of media but active participants in the digital world.

The Urgent Need for Media Literacy Across Generations

While the BonJour! Project focuses on the 55+ demographic, the importance of media literacy extends to all age groups. Today, misinformation and fake news spread rapidly, influencing opinions, behaviours, and societal cohesion. Media literacy equips individuals to:

  • Critically assess the credibility of sources.
  • Recognise biases and misinformation.
  • Contribute responsibly to digital discourse.

For seniors, this education is transformative. It reduces isolation, fosters intergenerational communication, and empowers them to engage with society meaningfully. However, for younger generations, media literacy is equally crucial as they navigate a digital landscape filled with unverified information and targeted content.

Driving Change for a Digital Future

The BonJour! Project not only addresses the specific needs of senior learners but also sets a precedent for inclusive, accessible, and impactful media and digityl literacy education. By combining innovative methodologies with a focus on accessibility, this initiative highlights the importance of lifelong learning in a rapidly evolving digital world. Mentioned at the ICERI, As media and digital platforms continue to shape society, empowering all generations with critical media literacy skills is no longer optional—it is essential for a more informed and connected future.

The Art of Effective Learning Content Design: A Focus on Textual Elements

PeterMaz Miscellaneous
The Art of Effective Learning Content Design: A Focus on Textual Elements

In the realm of education, where knowledge transfer is paramount, the design of learning content plays a pivotal role. Effective design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of educational materials, but also significantly impacts their effectiveness in conveying information and facilitating learning. Among the various components that contribute to good design, the simple displaying of text and the strategic use of colours deserve particular attention.

The judicious use of text is a cornerstone of effective learning content. Clear and concise language, free from jargon and ambiguity, ensures that learners can easily grasp the intended meaning. Additionally, the appropriate font choice and size are essential for readability. A font that is too small or too ornate can strain the eyes and hinder comprehension. Conversely, a font that is too large or too plain can make the content appear monotonous and unengaging. The use of headings, subheadings, and bullet points can also enhance readability by breaking up large blocks of text and providing visual cues that guide the reader’s attention.

Learning Content example

Here is an example of how simple text might be presented more interesting and better prepared for the learners. This example origins from a training course developed in the frame of an Erasmus+ project. During the translation process of content created by partners, we tried to enhance the layout to a more appealing, visible design.

Text design of a learning lesson
This is the design of the original page. Pure text – offered with limited formatting.

 

Text design of a learning lesson, ammended
This is the design, as it was amended during the translation process.

Colour, when used strategically, can significantly enhance the effectiveness of learning content. Colours can evoke emotions, draw attention, and organize information. For instance, using contrasting colours for headings and body text can improve readability. Colours can also be used to highlight important information or to differentiate between different categories of content. However, it is crucial to use colours judiciously to avoid overwhelming the learner with visual clutter. A limited colour palette can create a more cohesive and visually appealing design.

Possible amendments using text and colours

Effective formatting can significantly enhance the readability and comprehension of learning content. By using headings, subheadings, and bullet points, text can be broken down into smaller, more digestible chunks. This visual organization helps learners navigate the material more easily and identify key points. Additionally, consistent formatting throughout the content creates a sense of structure and coherence, making it easier for learners to follow the flow of information and understand the relationships between different concepts.

The combination of clear, concise text and well-chosen colours can create a learning environment that is both informative and engaging. By carefully considering the design elements, educators can ensure that their content is not only aesthetically pleasing but also effective in facilitating learning.
Sources
Richard E. Mayer: Multimedia Learning (Cambridge University Press; 3rd Edition, 9. July 2020)
Slideshare: Sean Bengry – The Art and Science of Instructional Design

A Learning Platform for the Elderly

PeterMaz BonJour, Miscellaneous, Project

Elderly people often face unique challenges with technology due to less familiarity and slower adaptation to new digital interfaces, making user-friendly and accessible learning platforms crucial. Cognitive changes with age, such as decreased memory and slower information processing, require simplified and clear instructional designs to facilitate effective learning. Physical limitations, like impaired vision and reduced motor skills, necessitate larger text, high contrast, and easy-to-navigate interfaces. Additionally, elderly learners may feel less confident with technology, so platforms must offer strong support systems, including tutorials and help desks, to build confidence and encourage participation. Social and emotional aspects are also important, as interactive and community-building features can combat isolation and motivate continuous learning. All these issues we face in the BonJour! Project[1].

What is our mission now?

This learning platform is designed to cater specifically to the needs of mature learners aged 55 and above. It fosters a welcoming and accessible environment that empowers individuals to explore their interests, develop new skills, and stay connected.

Designed for Ease of Use

  • User-Friendly Interface: The platform boasts a straightforward design with clear menus, large icons, and easy-to-understand labels. This ensures smooth navigation and minimizes confusion. A consistent layout across all pages further enhances user comfort.
  • Accessibility Features: High contrast themes, adjustable font sizes, and readable fonts make the platform accessible for users with visual impairments. Additionally, the platform is fully compatible with screen readers and offers keyboard navigation for a hands-free experience.

Illustration of a computer screen displaying a learning platform

Engaging Learning Experiences

  • Multimedia Content: Learning comes alive through a variety of engaging formats. Short, informative videos provide clear explanations, while audio lessons cater to those who prefer listening. Interactive quizzes reinforce learning by offering immediate feedback. Slide presentations offer visual support to complement text-based content.
  • Interactive Learning Tools: The platform fosters a sense of community through discussion forums where users can interact, share experiences, and ask questions. Live webinars and virtual classrooms provide real-time interaction with instructors and a more immersive learning environment. Practice exercises offer hands-on opportunities to apply newfound knowledge.

 Personalized Learning and Support

  • Personalized Learning Paths: Initial assessments help tailor learning journeys to individual needs and goals. Users can set and adjust their goals at any time. Progress tracking keeps users motivated by providing clear indicators of their achievements.
  • Support and Assistance: A dedicated help desk offers readily available support for technical issues. Step-by-step tutorials guide users on how to utilize the platform’s features effectively. A comprehensive FAQ section addresses common questions.

Keeping You Motivated

  • Badges and Certificates: Earn badges and certificates for completing courses and achieving milestones, celebrating your accomplishments and keeping you motivated.
  • Gamification: The platform integrates game-like elements such as points, levels, and challenges to keep learning fun and engaging.
  • Peer Support: The platform facilitates community building and fosters a supportive environment where users can connect with peers and encourage one another.

Considerations for Mature Learners

  • Cognitive Load: The platform prioritizes clear, step-by-step instructions and avoids technical jargon. Information is presented in manageable pieces to prevent cognitive overload.
  • Physical Comfort: An ergonomically designed interface and minimal clicks required to access content ensure comfortable use for extended periods.
  • Health and Wellness: The platform encourages breaks to avoid strain and offers options to adjust screen brightness and contrast for optimal eye care.
An elderly person, learning with a Tablet.
Elderly learners need specific support to enable them for efficient and successful learning. This does not address the learning content, but the way the content is delivered by the learning platform.

Additional considerations

Emotional Support: Positive feedback and motivational messages keep users engaged and inspired. The platform fosters a sense of community and belonging, promoting emotional well-being.

Technological Familiarity: Introductory courses equip users with basic digital literacy skills, easing the transition to online learning. The platform supports so-called “Multiple Devices”, this means it is compatible with various devices, including tablets and smartphones, for added convenience.

Privacy and Security: Clear data protection policies ensure complete transparency regarding user data and security. Users are empowered to control their personal information and choose how their data is shared.

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[1] The BonJour! Project (Erasmus+ 2023-1-IT02-KA220-ADU-000160320)  aims to enhance media literacy among older adults by improving their journalism and digital skills, fostering social activism, and bridging the generation gap in digital proficiency. It focuses on creating a new role, Media Educators for the Elderly, to address this critical need. The project targets adult and senior educators, media educators, and individuals aged 55+. It involves conducting a learning needs analysis, training Media Educators, offering courses to seniors, and developing resources like a handbook, guidelines, and a curriculum. Expected outcomes include establishing a media literacy methodology for the elderly, identifying Media Educator profiles, and creating an e-learning platform and learning materials tailored to seniors.

BonJour! Survey Analysis and Interpretation

PeterMaz BonJour, Miscellaneous, Project
BonJour! Survey Analysis and Interpretation
Deutsche Übersetzung

The BonJour! Survey (part of the developing of the Methodology of the BonJour! Project) aims to explore the behaviour and approach to information. Approximately 150 individuals aged 50+ from various countries in Europe participated. In Austria, 45 people were invited, of whom 31 provided complete responses (a response rate of 69%).
The survey was divided into six different dimensions, each with 3 to 6 questions. The closed-ended questions followed the Likert scale with five levels of agreement. Some control questions were formulated for reverse answering. The six dimensions are: Information Analysis, Evaluation and Assessment, Creation and Production, Recall, Understanding, and Application.

BonJour! Survey image picture

The structure of the sample of the 31 participating people is shown in the table. The average age was 67.8 years.

Education Level Percentage
Primary Education 13%
Secondary Education 10%
Higher Education 77%

Survey Analysis: Behaviour and Approach to Information

Here are the links to the evaluations of the individual dimensions:

  • Information Analysis
  • Evaluation and Assessment
  • Creation and Production
  • Recall
  • Understanding, and
  • Application.
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Deutsche Übersetzung

Die Umfrage versucht das Verhalten und die Herangehensweise an Informationen zu erforschen. Dazu wurden in Europa in etwa 150 Personen aus der Altersgruppe 50+ in verschiedenen Ländern befragt. In Österreich nahmen wurden 45 Personen eingeladen, von denen 31 vollständige Antworten lieferten (Rücklauf 69 %).

Die Umfrage gliederte sich in 6 verschiedene Dimensionen, zu denen zwischen 3 und 6 Fragen gestellt wurden. Die geschlossenen Fragen folgten dem Likertkonzept mit 5 Stufen der Zustimmungen. Einige Kontrollfragen wurden für eine umgekehrte Beantwortung formuliert. Die sechs Dimensionen sind Analyse von Informationen, Evaluieren und Bewerten, Erstellen und Schaffen, Erinnern, Verstehen, und Anwenden.

Die Struktur der Stichprobe der 31 teilnehmenden Personen ist in der Tabelle dargestellt. Das Durchschnittsalter betrug 67,8 Jahre.

Bildungsniveau Prozentsatz
Grundschulbildung 13%
Sekundarschulbildung 10%
Höhere Bildung 77%

Umfrageanalyse: Verhalten und Herangehensweise an Informationen

 

EBI is a member of the DigiComPass Association

PeterMaz Miscellaneous

DigiComPass Association is an entity for the Promotion and Development of the ‘Digital Competencies Passport’ (DigiComPass) is a non-profit organization. Its primary activities involve managing and advancing the DigiComPass training course, originally created under the Erasmus+ Project 2022-1-CY01-KA220-ADU-000085965, and promoting it across Europe. The association also aims to facilitate networking among course providers and offer ongoing education to members and interested parties.

To achieve its goals, the association utilizes non-material means such as lectures, virtual and in-person assemblies, participation in international conferences, discussion events, publication of materials, and the establishment of a virtual library. Financial resources are obtained through entry fees, membership dues, donations, and proceeds from publications.

DigiComPass Association: Webpage
The DigiComPass Association’s Webpage shares current information and enables to contact the organization as well as to apply for membership.

The board of the association

Dr. Alexandros YeratziotisPresident Dr. Alexandros Yeratziotis

Alexandros Yeratziotis is a Post-Doctoral Researcher at the SEIT Lab, University of Cyprus, and co-director of A.G. Connect Deaf Limited. His research focuses on usability and user experience design for deaf users, with numerous publications and extensive experience in HCI and accessibility.
   
   
   

Deputy President and Secretary Mag. Peter Mazohl

Peter Mazohl heads the European Initiative for Education and was a lecturer at the University of Technology in Vienna. He specializes in ICT with extensive teaching experience and leads EBI’s research department.

 

   
   

Fernando BenaventeDeputy Secretary Fernando Benavente

Fernando Benavente is a Public Works Technical Engineer and Computer Science graduate, with extensive experience in European training and employment programs. He serves as the President of EURORESO and is actively involved in the UGT union and PSOE party.
   
   
   

Eleni PistolaTreasurer Eleni Pistola

Eleni Pistola holds degrees in Environmental Studies and Well-Being, and has three years of experience as a Project Manager in European projects. She is a dedicated youth worker focused on environmental leadership and Erasmus projects.

 
 

Deputy Treasurer Diyana Todorova

Diyana Todorova is a Project Manager at BrainLog with expertise in designing digital solutions for education. She leverages her strong project management background to create innovative educational platforms.

 

 

First Auditor BEd Mag. Harald Makl MA

Harald Makl is an expert in pedagogy and quality management in education, with multiple Master’s degrees. He has extensive project management experience and teaches at the University of Applied Studies for Teacher Education in Baden, Austria.

 

 

Second Auditor Martin Savchev

Martin Savchev is the CEO of BrainLog with a background in economics and business administration. He has diverse experience in marketing, event management, and European programs, and has served as a guest lecturer in Denmark.

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Scientific Advisory Board

Errol St. Clair Smith

Errol St. Clair Smith is the Director of Global Development at Flipped Learning Worldwide and the executive producer of “Blindsided by AI.” He has extensive experience in traditional media and innovative learning methodologies.

Ph.D Christos Mettouris

Christos Mettouris is a Post-Doctoral Researcher at the University of Cyprus, specializing in e-Learning and learning platforms. He has been involved in numerous EU and local projects and has expertise in recommender systems and ubiquitous computing.

 
 

Constantinos Tsouris

Constantinos Tsouris is a specialist in collaborative learning and curriculum development with extensive teaching experience in academic English. He has presented his work internationally and collaborated on various EU co-funded projects.

 

 

The Association’s Mission

The Association’s mission is to empower individuals across Europe with essential digital competencies through innovative education and community engagement. It aims to advance digital literacy by disseminating and improving the DigiComPass training course, ensuring accessibility as an Open Educational Resource. Activities include promoting the course, facilitating networking, and providing ongoing educational opportunities. The goal is to foster a knowledgeable, skilled, and digitally empowered society through lectures, conferences, publications, and a virtual library.

 

Study visit to the “Casa Vittoria”

PeterMaz Miscellaneous
Study visit to the “Casa Vittoria”

The Europäische Bildungsinitiative (EBI) recently conducted a study visit to Casa Vittoria, seeking to gain insights into the cooperative’s innovative approach to inclusion and empowerment. The cooperative’s commitment to providing individuals with disabilities with opportunities for growth and development deeply impressed the EBI team.The study visit served as a valuable learning experience, offering the EBI team valuable insights that will inform their future work.

Casa Vittoria - the outside Terrassa

Empowering Lives: Insights from the Study Visit to Casa Vittoria Cooperative

In 2010, a small group of families with children diagnosed with Down syndrome started cultivating a small garden. Over the years, this initiative blossomed into four beautiful greenhouses and a high-level hospitality facility. This transformation is the result of the dedication and vision of Casa Vittoria, a cooperative committed to supporting families of disabled children by fostering autonomy and professionalism in individuals facing various levels of challenges.

The remarkable team at Casa Vittoria comprises professionals who are not only experts in their respective fields but also free from stereotypes. They possess the ability to teach and create an inclusive environment within the greenhouse, guest rooms, dining area, and kitchen. Each room and table is assigned a distinct colour, simplifying recognition for individuals with cognitive delays. This strategy facilitates integration, continuous learning, and the exchange of ideas, ensuring a positive and fulfilling experience for everyone involved.

In the cooperative, approximately 20 volunteers work tirelessly to support integration. Individuals with special needs contribute to various areas, including the kitchen, restaurant, and vegetable production. They take care of the greenhouses and actively participate in producing vegetable products, gaining valuable skills and experience.

The study visit organized by the European Basic Income (EBI) focused on analysing the diverse ways in which individuals with special needs can be integrated, taught, and employed. This visit provided profound insights and valuable enrichment for the future work of the EBI. The visitors observed first-hand the successful implementation of inclusive practices and the significant impact these have on the individuals involved.

Garden and glass-houses with vegetables

The Cooperative’s Mission and Societal Impact

Casa Vittoria’s mission is to empower individuals with special needs. The aim is helping them achieve a level of autonomy and professionalism that might otherwise be unattainable. By recruiting skilled professionals who are adept at both teaching and working alongside these individuals, the cooperative creates an environment where everyone can thrive. The use of distinct colours to mark rooms and tables is a simple yet effective method to aid recognition and foster independence among those with cognitive delays.

The cooperative’s holistic approach benefits not only the individuals with special needs but also society at large. By integrating these individuals into various aspects of work and community life, Casa Vittoria breaks down barriers and promotes inclusivity. The hands-on experience in the kitchen, restaurant, and greenhouses equips these individuals with practical skills, enhancing their employability and self-worth.

Benefits and Added Value

For people with special needs, working at Casa Vittoria provides a sense of purpose and achievement. They learn essential life and vocational skills in a supportive and understanding environment, boosting their confidence and independence. The cooperative’s inclusive practices ensure that these individuals are not marginalized but are valuable, contributing members of society.

Garden and glass-houses with vegetables

The added value for society is multifaceted. First, it challenges and changes societal perceptions of people with special needs, showcasing their capabilities and potential. Second, it celebrates diversity and fosters a more inclusive community where everyone has the opportunity to contribute. Finally, by providing training and employment opportunities, Casa Vittoria reduces dependency and promotes self-sufficiency among individuals with special needs.

Conclusion

The study visit to Casa Vittoria Cooperative highlighted the immense benefits of inclusive practices in education and employment for individuals with special needs. The cooperative’s dedication to fostering autonomy and professionalism in these individuals transforms their lives and enriches society. The insights gained from this visit will undoubtedly influence future initiatives, promoting a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.

From E-Learning to Tech-Powered Learning: A Shift in Educational Gears

PeterMaz Miscellaneous
From E-Learning to Tech-Powered Learning: A Shift in Educational Gears

The term “E-learning” has dominated the educational technology landscape for decades. But as technology itself continues to evolve rapidly, the term no longer accurately reflects the sophisticated ways in which learning is being enhanced. We’re witnessing a shift towards technology-enabled learning, a concept that emphasizes the dynamic interplay between pedagogy and ever-more-powerful technological tools.

Here’s why “e-learning” is becoming obsolete:

  • Limited Scope: “E-learning” simply refers to learning that happens electronically. It doesn’t distinguish between a basic online lecture and a fully immersive virtual reality simulation.
  • Tech-Neutral: The term “e” doesn’t tell us anything about the specific technologies used. A mobile learning app and a complex learning management system (LMS) are both “e-learning,” even though they offer vastly different learning experiences.
Learning with technology - learner with laptop
Learning with technology happens daily. There is no difference in ages of learning aims.

Tech-Enabled Learning: A Broader Vision

Technology-enabled learning, on the other hand, places the focus firmly on the technological tools that empower the learning process. It encompasses a vast array of tools and techniques, including:

  • Interactive Learning Management Systems (LMS)
    These platforms go beyond simply delivering content. They offer features like adaptive learning paths, personalized feedback, and collaborative tools that foster student engagement.
  • Adaptive Learning Technologies
    These AI-powered systems tailor the learning experience to each student’s individual strengths and weaknesses, adjusting difficulty and pacing accordingly.
  • Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)
    VR allows students to step into immersive simulations, while AR overlays digital information on the real world. Both technologies can create powerful learning experiences that bring abstract concepts to life.
  • Gamification
    By incorporating game mechanics like points, badges, and leaderboards, gamified learning platforms can boost student motivation and engagement.
  • Learning Analytics
    Data collected through technology can provide valuable insights into student progress, allowing educators to identify areas where students might need additional support.

Two boys learning with a laptop.

The Technical Implementation

The technical backbone of technology-enabled learning can be complex, but it can be broken down into key components:

  • Content Delivery Networks (CDNs)
    These ensure smooth and reliable delivery of learning materials, especially video and interactive elements, to geographically dispersed learners.
  • Cloud-Based Platforms
    Cloud computing allows for scalable and accessible learning environments, eliminating the need for local software installations.
    Comment: This is the tool we use in our training courses. In numerous instances, we implement a MOODLE Learning Platform.
  • Learning Experience Platforms (LXPs)
    LXPs curate and aggregate learning content from various sources, offering a personalized learning experience for each student.

The Future of Learning

Learning with a laptopTechnology-enabled learning represents a dynamic and future-proof approach to education. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more powerful tools to emerge, transforming the learning experience into something even more engaging, effective, and personalized.

Manifest Flipped Learning

PeterMaz Miscellaneous

The Manifest Flipped Learning, published by the DigiComPass project team, is a fundamental document for the creation of the DigiComPass training modules. It is a summary of the Flipped Learning 3.0 framework with a specific focus on adult education. The document can be downloaded from the webpage: ⇑ Download.

Cover of the Manifest Flipped Learning 3.0
Cover of the Manifest Flipped Learning 3.0

About the Manifest

The manifest outlines the following key principles of Flipped Learning 3.0:

  • Learner-centeredness: Flipped Learning 3.0 puts the learner at the center of the learning process. Learners are provided the opportunity to take ownership of their learning and to progress at their own pace.
  • Active learning: Flipped Learning 3.0 emphasizes the importance of active learning. Learners are encouraged to engage with the material in various ways, such as through problem-solving, collaboration, and discussion.
  • Technology-enhanced learning: Flipped Learning 3.0 uses technology to enhance the learning process. Technology can be used to deliver instruction, to provide opportunities for learners to practice their skills, and to facilitate collaboration.

Focus on Adult Education

The manifest also highlights the specific benefits of Flipped Learning 3.0 for adult learners. Adult learners are often motivated to learn new skills, but they may have limited time and resources. Flipped Learning 3.0 can help adult learners to overcome these challenges by providing them with a flexible and personalized learning experience.

Added Value for the DigiComPass Project

The DigiComPass project team is using this document to develop training modules that will help adult learners to develop their digital competencies. The training modules will be based on the Flipped Learning 3.0 framework and will be designed to be engaging, interactive, and effective.