The AIM of this project is to introduce primary school teachers to the Animal assisted education (AAE) concept and encourage them to include animals in the learning process providing the knowledge and tools. The inclusion of children with various difficulties is stressed. OBJECTIVES: 1.To establish the theoretical background creating a guide to AAE for the primary school teachers; 2.To organize and attend the practical seminar of AAE and therapy in alpaca farm and educational center in Germany; 3.To organize partner meeting and perform testing activity of output developed in Lithuania. 4.To develop a Teacher qualification program about AAE. 5.To organize a virtual seminar group about AAE for the primary school teachers and other target groups.
The main motive to apply for this project was that teaching/ learning based on Animal assisted education methodology provides a diversity of resources and spaces that is hard to replicate in an indoor environment as well as a possibility to teach different subjects in a different way. The bond between humans and animals is a powerful force that transcends generations and cultures. Research has shown that integrating animals into the learning environment can enhance emotional well-being, reduce stress, and create a positive and inclusive atmosphere. Beyond the emotional benefits, animals can serve as captivating teaching aids, sparking curiosity and fostering a love for learning. Thus, the needs to to ensure the inclusion of children with special needs or strenghen pupils' motivation are perfectly addressed by applied AAE methodic and implementation of relevant AAE activities.