Adult education and lifelong learning have always been a passion of mine. Therefore, when I was lecturing at the University of Bologna, I started reflecting on how to make learning as pleasant and appealing as possible. I researched the subject and started organizing workshops and activities for our students and used drama techniques and exercises too. Eventually, I wrote a paper on a different way of teaching interpreting*.

To make learning an exciting journey, I started thinking about creating learning games based on storytelling, role-playing, drama exercises, and more. Meanwhile, I developed several educational games for adults, especially on topics considered “difficult or boring to learn”.

The European ErasmusPlus Project PRO.TO.T.Y.PE. – PROactive AuTOmoTive Workers Mastering DYnamic Future Perspectives – in which my company, IP-International GmbH – Creative Corporate Training, is participating as a partner, is another example of a creative approach to adult lifelong learning:

• Edutainment – A Suite of 17 episodes designed to raise awareness of the importance of being curious and open-minded, and to provide tools to enhance the ability to adapt to change successfully.
• Game-based learning –A digital learning game called “The AutoFuturers” to empower learners to develop their competencies and build on what they already have and know, rather than focusing on a “perceived” deficit or inability to keep up with change.
• Arts: A short film to convey the meaning of change, how to cope with it and (re)engage in lifelong learning.

Regarding the latter, together with the coordinator of the PRO.TO.T.Y.PE. Project, C4F -Roscioli Development, and Marco Cassini, a professional actor and movie director, we have created a short film entitled “FAR WEST MAN: Upskilling & Reskilling in the Automotive Industry”. The purpose of the film is to convey the message that it is important to be open to change. The film also presents how to learn and acquire new skills in a very creative way and can be summarized with the final message of the short film: Think first, then act!

However, watch the short film yourself to make up your mind!

“FAR WEST MAN: Upskilling & Reskilling in the Automotive Industry”

*”A different way of teaching interpreting – Moving towards a holistic approach”. In L. Salmi & K. Koskinen (ed.). 2005.