The project: „Gaming the System: Transformative Education for European Youth Workers” let me come back to my childhood years.
In the charming town of Estermar (The Netherlands) looking like a postcard painted by van Gogh, I had an opportunity to delve into the elements of the games as a participant. It was an interesting experience that allowed me to compare games in my country and the project’s partner countries. Identifying the elements of games allowed me to create scenarios of activities in the later part of the project that can both teach and entertain thanks to gamification. Additionally, an interesting experience was getting to know the cultures of other countries during intercultural nights.
I recommend any mobilities within the Erasmus+ programme. Training courses that allow me to gain more factual knowledge are my favourites.
Olga, 27 years old, Gaming the System training course, Eastermar, The Netherlands
For me, the exchange in Eastermar, The Netherlands was an unforgettable experience. The “Gaming the System” project, based on gamification, was a great way to learn through entertainment and gain knowledge in an unusual and engaging way.
The project’s theme not only introduced us to the world of gamification, but also helped to understand how game mechanisms can be used in everyday life to realise personal and social goals.
During the exchange, I had an opportunity to meet lots of people from different countries, which was one of the most exciting parts of this project. The diversity of cultures and perspectives made every day full of inspiration and discoveries. I particularly remember learning Romanian dance – the common steps, the music and the joy coming from it created a special bond between us. During my free time, I also discovered the charms of picturesque Eastermar – its green pastures and an impressive number of cows.
Good accommodation conditions, delicious food and support from the LEVEL UP Association helped us to be able to completely focus on learning and integration. Special words of thanks go to Monika – our coordinator, who took the project to an even higher level with her commitment and energy. She was always ready to help and motivate us, which made us feel confident and comfortable, taking full advantage of the opportunities offered by the project.
I encourage you to take part in the projects organised by LEVEL UP – it is an amazing opportunity to develop, meet new people and cultures, and gain experiences that will stay with you for the rest of your life.
I definitely recommend international trips – it is a great opportunity to develop, meet new cultures and gain skills that are useful in everyday life and in the future career. Thanks to such projects, you can learn working in a team, being open to diversity and gain a fresh look at the world. Such trips let you explore new places and make friends with people from all over the world. It is worth it!
Agata, 22 years old, Gaming the System training course, Eastermar, The Netherlands
I will remember the project in many aspects. Getting to know new people from 7 countries, their points of view and way of thinking, and how we are different and similar, gives a huge experience.
New skills to see a solution where, before the course, I would not have even expected to find one. The cuisine was delicious, big portions and a rich buffet satisfied everyone. I consider the organisation to be very good, there was no problem with the journey or accommodation. There was a very professional approach on the part of LEVEL UP. Before, during, and after arrival, the coordinator always explained everything. She was checking if we were safe or in need of anything.
I thought that the biggest barrier would be my age, but when I arrived, everyone instantly led me astray – it was not relevant to anyone.
I am very grateful that I could be a part of this training course that inspired me to look for new solutions to deal with the problem.
I obviously recommend international trips. The friendships made, the offers to visit together upon arrival in a country, are priceless. Openness of people on the project, their joy, optimism and creativity are impossible to describe in a few sentences. It has to be experienced first hand.
Paweł, 27 years old, Gaming the System training course, Eastermar, The Netherlands
