Cross-Country Synthesis & Impact Overview

This consolidated report summarizes findings from piloting activities conducted across Estonia, Croatia, and the Netherlands.

It integrates:

  • Quantitative data (pre/post assessments)
  • Educator observation reports
  • Focus group insights
  • Internal partner reflections
  • Feedback from 30+ adult educators exposed to the methodology

The goal is to assess:

  • Overall effectiveness
  • Perceptions of visual thinking
  • Areas of improvement
  • Sustainability potential

2. Overall Impact Across Countries

Across all three contexts, visual thinking methodologies demonstrated consistent positive outcomes in:

✔ Learner engagement
✔ Communication confidence
✔ Emotional awareness
✔ Structured problem-solving
✔ Participation of quieter learners
✔ Inclusion of low-literacy participants

While implementation styles differed slightly by country, core patterns were consistent:

  • Visual tools reduced anxiety.
  • Participation became more balanced.
  • Discussions became more structured.
  • Learners retained concepts better when visually mapped.

2. Overall Impact Across Countries

Across all three contexts, visual thinking methodologies demonstrated consistent positive outcomes in:

✔ Learner engagement
✔ Communication confidence
✔ Emotional awareness
✔ Structured problem-solving
✔ Participation of quieter learners
✔ Inclusion of low-literacy participants

While implementation styles differed slightly by country, core patterns were consistent:

  • Visual tools reduced anxiety.
  • Participation became more balanced.
  • Discussions became more structured.
  • Learners retained concepts better when visually mapped.

4. Feedback from 30+ Adult Educators (External Sharing Sessions)

The methodology was presented and demonstrated to more than 30 additional adult educators through multiplier events, workshops, and dissemination sessions.

Key Perceptions from External Educators

  • High interest in adaptable visual templates.
  • Strong recognition of relevance for low-literacy learners.
  • Appreciation for structured scenario-based simulations.
  • Demand for printable resources for offline use.
  • Requests for additional intercultural communication scenarios.

Many educators highlighted that:

  • Visual thinking reduces linguistic inequality in the classroom.
  • It supports mixed-ability groups effectively.
  • It strengthens reflective learning.

Several educators expressed intent to pilot selected tools within their own institutions.

5. Improvements Made During the Project

Based on piloting and feedback, the following adjustments were implemented:

Toolkit Improvements

  • Simplification of visual templates.
  • Addition of clearer facilitation instructions.
  • Increased number of step-by-step behavioural mapping examples.
  • Expansion of adaptability-related tools.
  • Inclusion of workplace-based scenarios.

Platform Adjustments

  • Improved navigation clarity.
  • Enhanced usability for first-time users.
  • Added printable challenge formats.
  • Refined feedback prompts within simulations.

Pedagogical Refinements

  • Encouraged gradual introduction of visuals.
  • Integrated visual reflection segments at end of sessions.
  • Shifted focus from “correct answers” to behavioural analysis.
  • Strengthened facilitator guidance for sensitive topics.

6. Observed Learner Perceptions

Across countries, learners reported:

  • Visual tools made understanding faster.
  • They felt less pressure compared to purely verbal discussions.
  • They could express themselves even with limited vocabulary.
  • Emotional mapping increased self-awareness.
  • Scenario simulations felt realistic and relevant.

Particularly strong feedback included:

  • “I don’t feel stupid when I don’t know the answer.”
  • “Pictures help when words are difficult.”
  • “Now I think before I react.”

7. Key Cross-Country Learning Insights

1. Visual Thinking Supports Inclusion

Visual methodologies proved particularly powerful for:

Migrants

Adults with low literacy

Long-term unemployed individuals

Learners with low self-esteem

Participants with previous negative school experiences

2. Structure Increases Psychological Safety

Consistent session structure (intro → visual mapping → scenario → reflection) increased predictability and safety.

3. Adaptability Is a Core Transversal Skill

Across all countries, adaptability emerged as a central need — especially in labour market transitions and multicultural environments.

4. Blended Delivery Requires Flexibility

While digital tools were effective, printable and offline formats remain essential for equitable access.

8. Recommendations for Further Development

Based on consolidated feedback:

For the Toolkit

  • Develop advanced module for trainers.
  • Expand scenario diversity (intercultural, civic, digital contexts).
  • Create quick-start guide for new educators.
  • Add more reflection prompts for emotional regulation.

For the Platform

  • Introduce simplified navigation mode.
  • Add optional guided facilitator script.
  • Develop analytics dashboard for educators.
  • Expand scenario library.
  • For Training & Capacity Building
  • Offer train-the-trainer programmes.
  • Create short certification workshops.
  • Develop peer exchange communities.
  • Provide refresher sessions annually.

9. Sustainability & Scaling Recommendations

The partnership recommends:

  • Integration into adult VET curricula.
  • Use in employability reintegration programmes.
  • Inclusion in civic integration pathways.
  • Embedding visual facilitation into adult educator training.
  • Continued collaboration through bi-annual exchange meetings.

This project has been funded by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union. 

The European Commission support for the production of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the contents which reflects the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.

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