The goal of the CULPEER digital project was to transition the established cultural peer learning approach (CPLA) to a digital platform. Originating almost 25 years ago, CPLA, developed by our partner KinderKulturKarawane, has been executed through tours with artistic groups from the Global South. The onset of the pandemic prompted initial digital exchange attempts, laying the foundation for this project. CULPEER digital offers educators a comprehensive digital learning package to integrate global and intercultural learning into their classrooms. Ensuring inclusivity, the learning materials are accessible online and offline, featuring text, videos, stop motion, and creative PDFs. The e-learning course also introduces the Universal Design for Learning concept, aiding educators in adapting materials to diverse learner preferences. Strengthening European network ties, the project facilitated cross-country learning and networking among educators and cultural workers. Additionally, a digital network link on the website fosters connections between artistic partners from the Global South and educational institutions in the Global North.
The CULPEER digital project is closely linked to the educational objectives of Erasmus+ in terms of diversity, inclusion, digitalization and education for sustainable development. Through digital, cultural exchange between peers worldwide, an awareness of global justice, inclusion and diversity, as well as cultural knowledge and skills, is promoted. The digital level enables people who cannot travel for financial or health reasons, for example, to participate in intercultural exchange, and less travel saves resources and protects the environment. In view of the corona pandemic, the consequences of climate change and the existing barriers to access to education, especially for people with social barriers, both in Europe and worldwide, there is a need for freely accessible, innovative digital learning methods. CULPEER digital offers educators the necessary concepts with concrete examples to bring the cultural peer-to-peer approach (CPLA) into their classrooms. For the European added value, the project was carried out with 7 partners from 6 countries, each of which has expertise in CPLA and digital learning and can draw on a broad and active network in their country and across Europe.