The project SHAPE – Shaping Attitudes for Participatory Engagement of Seniors focuses on developing modern, inclusive approaches to older adults' education, with an emphasis on strengthening intercultural and civic competences. It is delivered by an international partnership comprising Fundacja PCKK Edukacja i Rozwój (Poland), the project coordinator, CEREHIS (Slovakia), Asociatia „Liga Scriitorilor“ – Filiala Timisoara Banat (Romania) and Sección de Educación Permanente Salobreña–La Caleta–Lobres (Spain). Together, we develop educational models combining agile methods, critical geragogy and the Study Circles methodology, connecting specialist knowledge with practical implementation in education and culture.
The project aims to support tutors, educators and organisations working with older adults in developing digital competences and creating flexible, engaging and meaningful learning processes that reflect adult learners' needs and experiences. SHAPE also promotes innovative approaches to working with older adults, active participation in learning, and safe spaces for sharing experiences, opinions and values across generations and cultures.
The project's key themes include intercultural and civic education, strengthening older adults' participation in democratic life, promoting human rights and developing social cohesion. Outputs will include a methodological handbook with practical recommendations for educators, digital repositories of learning materials, and strategies for using online tools effectively in older adults' education. They will also include case studies, experiences from pilot activities in partner countries, and recommendations for tutors based on evaluations of learning processes.
The project SHAPE also welcomes cooperation with other organisations involved in adult and older adults' education as associated partners. This cooperation offers opportunities to exchange experiences, test the materials produced, and co-create innovative educational approaches that respond to current social challenges and support active, dignified and meaningful ageing in a European context.
Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.