Published with the consent of all participants
veryone travels to Florence for different reasons — some for the art, others for the food.
I went there for tools.
Not the kind you find in a toolbox, but digital tools — the ones that can transform education.
This Erasmus+ project-based learning trip, organized by Novucenter OÜ, was a new and eye-opening experience for me. At times, it was a challenge. While I had signed up for new learning opportunities, some unexpected situations can never be fully anticipated.
What Didn’t Go as Planned
A hotel booking issue on the night of arrival
Limited English skills and no possibility to bring a translator
I was the only participant from Estonia, while others joined as part of national teams
No teacher or clear schedule during the first two days — which felt especially difficult without a common language
Carrying a heavy suitcase and a laptop up and down endless stairs in Florence, with no elevators
Getting lost during an outdoor interactive task with an international team, with only 15% battery left and limited navigation skills
What Got Me Through It
My digital competence.
Before the trip, I took assessments in both English and digital skills.
The results were clear:
English – level A2
Digital skills – level C1
And then came a powerful piece of advice from my colleague and friend Svetlana Smirnova:
“Rely on your strengths.”
That became my compass for the rest of the week.
What I Gained from the Experience
I mastered several new smartphone applications
I strengthened my digital skills
I became slightly better at navigating unfamiliar places
I didn’t dramatically improve my spoken English, but I proved to myself that I could manage without it — people were surprisingly helpful and willing to communicate in creative ways
I returned home with new ICT tools that I’m now ready to share
Join Me and Learn These Tools
If you’re curious to explore the tools and techniques I brought back from Florence, you’re welcome to join our upcoming session:
Date: May 12
Time: 18:30
Registration: https://forms.gle/niysxAabnCQKKidM6
You can also contact Galina Kushanova directly to secure your place.
Final Reflection
This trip was more than just a training course.
It reminded me that resilience, curiosity, and knowing your strengths can take you far — even in a foreign city, with limited words but limitless tools.
Olga Volkova
Projekt 2024-1-EE01-KA121-ADU-000216225
