Back to search

Digital Inclusion of Youth

2022-3-PL01-KA153-YOU-0001027892022Mobility of youth workersfinalized
Countries: PL|GE|EL|IE|AM|UA|NO · Grant: €15,286
Information and communication technologies (ICT)Digital skills and competencesEuropean identity and values

Objectives

We chose this topic due to the rapid evolution of digital media and technology, which presents both extraordinary opportunities and significant challenges for young people globally. Teenagers' unprecedented use of the internet and mobile technologies for exploration, connection, creation, and learning comes with ethical dilemmas and issues like cyberbullying, hate speech, privacy breaches, and digital distraction. The alarming statistics from the Internet Watch Foundation, indicating that up to 88% of self-generated images end up on other sites, underscore the urgent need to address these risks. Our project was driven by the realization that society and the needs and interests of young people are rapidly changing, requiring youth to work to respond with qualitative and innovative approaches. The pressing need to invest in youth workers, recognized by all organizations involved in the project, stems from the belief that digital technology is a crucial tool for engaging in an increasingly advanced society. However, this engagement must be safe and informed. Our main goal was to equip youth workers with the necessary digital skills to foster a safe, inclusive, and empowering online environment for young people. The objectives of our project were multifaceted: To enhance digital literacy among youth workers, ensuring they are well-prepared to guide young people in navigating the digital world. To address and mitigate the risks associated with digital activities, such as cyberbullying, hate speech, and privacy violations, through education and awareness. To promote digital citizenship, focusing on the values of tolerance, intercultural dialogue, equality, and respect online. To develop and disseminate practical tools, interactive exercises, and competencies that youth workers can employ to encourage positive online interactions among young people. To create a final guide on digital inclusion practices and share it widely within the youth work community, including publication on the Salto Website. By achieving these objectives, we aimed not only to improve the digital competences of youth workers but also to empower young people to become responsible, respectful, and safe digital citizens. The project's alignment with the objectives of Erasmus+ is evident in its focus on enhancing critical thinking and media literacy to strengthen democracy, fight manipulation, and fake news, and in promoting quality, innovation, and recognition of youth work. It supports the development of effective methods for preventing racism and intolerance and addresses the risks and opportunities of digitalization. These goals and objectives are directly linked to the EU's priorities for Youth, highlighting the project's commitment to fostering an inclusive digital environment that empowers young people to navigate the digital dimension responsibly.

Project partners (7)