The project aimed to strengthen digital competences of youth workers and mainstream innovative digital youth work practices, particularly through VR and 360° video technologies. Specific objectives were: 1. To develop a methodological guidebook supporting the integration of VR and 360° video in youth work. 2. To design, implement and evaluate at least six interactive teaching and learning scenarios addressing civic engagement, volunteering, social inclusion and mentoring. 3. To increase youth participation and awareness of community involvement opportunities through immersive learning experiences. 4. To promote smart and innovative youth work in line with the EU Youth Work Agenda. Through these objectives, the project sought to empower youth workers as digital facilitators and support young people in becoming more active, informed and engaged citizens.
Youth work is increasingly expected to respond to digital transformation and to the needs of young people growing up in immersive, media-rich environments. However, the initial needs analysis conducted by the consortium showed that youth workers lacked practical competences, methodological guidance and accessible tools to meaningfully integrate VR and 360° technologies into their daily practice. Existing digital youth work approaches were often theoretical, with limited no-code, ready-to-use solutions. In addition, young people demonstrated low awareness of civic participation opportunities and limited engagement in volunteering and community life. The project addressed the need for innovative, engaging and inclusive methods to foster youth participation, civic engagement and social inclusion, especially for young people with fewer opportunities. “VR the Future” responded by combining technological knowledge with practical youth work methodologies.