Module 1 – Introduction
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
This license enables reusers to distribute, remix, adapt, and build upon the material in any medium or format, so long as attribution is given to the creator. The license allows for commercial use. CC BY includes the following elements:
BY: credit must be given to the creator.
Overview
The module on Inclusive Tinkering and Creative Skills Development is designed to empower educators with the knowledge and tools necessary to engage adults with Down syndrome in creative activities. These activities are designed to enhance motor skills, stimulate problem-solving, and foster social interaction. The objective of the module is to equip educators with the knowledge and tools to engage adults with Down syndrome in hands-on, creative projects that enhance fine motor skills, problem-solving, and social interaction.
By incorporating adaptive techniques and accessible materials, the module aims to address the diverse needs of participants, ensuring that each individual can fully participate and express their creativity. It also emphasizes the importance of fostering a sense of autonomy and confidence in participants, enabling them to take ownership of their projects and celebrate their achievements. Additionally, the module encourages collaborative learning, where participants work together, share ideas, and build meaningful connections, further enriching their social skills and sense of community.
Aim
- Equip educators with the knowledge and tools to engage adults with Down syndrome in creative, hands-on projects.
- Enhance educators ability to design and implement inclusive tinkering activities that cater to diverse abilities.
- Promote the development of fine motor skills, cognitive abilities, and social interaction through creative projects.
- Foster a supportive and collaborative learning environment that encourages autonomy and confidence in participants.
Expected Outcomes
- Educators will gain a comprehensive understanding of the concepts and benefits of tinkering for cognitive and motor skills development in adults with Down syndrome.
- Participants will be able to design and adapt tinkering projects to accommodate a wide range of abilities, ensuring inclusivity in creative activities.
- Educators will learn effective strategies for fostering peer support and collaboration among participants, enhancing social interaction and teamwork.
- Participants will be equipped with methods to assess the progress of adults with Down syndrome in creative projects and provide constructive feedback.
- Educators will be prepared to partner with community resources, such as makerspaces and volunteers, to enrich the learning experience and broaden opportunities for engagement.
- By the end of the module, educators will have hands-on experience in planning and executing a simple, inclusive tinkering project, applying the knowledge and skills gained throughout the course.