In today’s world, it is crucial to explore various non-formal teaching methods and strategies to uncover their potential in improving educational effectiveness. By looking beyond the confines of traditional classrooms and addressing the issue of early school leaving, non-formal education is defined as “any organised educational activity outside the established formal system – whether operating separately or as an important feature of some broader activity – that is intended to serve identifiable learning clienteles and learning objectives” (Philip Coombs, 1973).

The new edition of the course “Non-Formal Education Teaching Methods and Strategies​” took place in Tenerife from 23/03/2025 to 29/03/2025. The participants came from Italy, with Chiara Martino and Antonella Pompameo from Akon Service. 

Initially, we began by exploring visual strategies. Through the use of art and creative thinking, such as making collages or drawing on various topics, participants aimed to enhance their self-expression by utilizing metaphors. By engaging in different visual activities, we collectively discovered how art can serve as an accessible means to discuss various subjects and convey complex ideas.

Next, we explored how role-playing games and storytelling can help us understand the consequences of particular behaviors in specific contexts. This approach also allowed us to analyze the contributions each person can make in different roles within a group.

We also explored the significance of team building and teamwork in education. Collaborating with others can be highly effective, offering every member the chance to contribute within the group.
Debates and speaking games represent another type of non-formal educational activity. These games are valuable for promoting cooperative learning and developing a dialectical mindset. In the Oxford Debate competition, participants exercised their creativity in forming unconventional and persuasive arguments while also learning how to collaborate effectively with others.

After analyzing the various non-formal education tools and strategies, each participant had the opportunity to independently create a new tool to implement within their own educational settings. Thanks to the creativity and dedication of the participants, we ended the course with a collection of fresh, practical, and imaginative tools designed by the teachers

In conclusion, throughout the course, participants were able to experiment with innovative methods in a supportive and inspiring environment, honing skills such as teamwork, empathy, and critical thinking. They also had the opportunity to design new and original non-formal educational tools!

Discover more about this course here.