Description
In today’s complex world, professionals in the third sector – whether working in social services, libraries, NGOs, or volunteer organizations – are increasingly facing the challenge of adapting to ever-changing demands while continuing to deliver impactful services.
The growing need to integrate 21st-century skills, including critical thinking, problem-solving, digital literacy, collaboration, creativity, and effective communication, has become essential for third-sector workers to stay relevant, effective, and forward-thinking.
Throughout the course, participants will engage in practical, hands-on activities designed to enhance their communication, problem-solving, and creative skills.
They will explore strategies for tackling complex challenges and adapting to changing environments with confidence.
Interactive workshops and role-playing exercises will focus on building strong collaborative partnerships, both locally and globally, allowing participants to exchange experiences with peers from other countries who work in similar fields, broadening their perspectives and fostering cross-cultural collaboration.
In addition, participants will gain insights into how digital tools and technologies can be integrated into their work to boost productivity and enhance service delivery.
The course will emphasize ethical considerations in the use of these tools, ensuring participants understand how to leverage technology – such as chatbots and digital platforms – responsibly.
By gaining these practical skills, participants will be well-equipped to foster inclusivity, drive innovation, and achieve excellence in their professional roles.
By the end of the course, participants will have a comprehensive skill set and the confidence to address the evolving challenges of the third sector.
They will leave with enhanced communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities, ready to create positive change in their organizations and communities.
What is included
Learning outcomes
The course will help the participants to:
- Develop a comprehensive understanding of foundational 21st-century skills and their relevance in public service settings;
- Enhance their proficiency in critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity, enabling them to effectively navigate complex challenges;
- Improve communication and collaboration skills to foster stronger relationships and drive collective success within their organizations;
- Gain practical knowledge in leveraging technology and innovative tools like chatbots to increase productivity while upholding ethical standards;
- Cultivate cultural competence, diversity awareness, and ethical leadership skills essential for promoting inclusivity and equity in public service;
- Prioritize resilience, well-being, and continuous improvement, enabling them to sustainably navigate the demands of their professional roles.
Tentative schedule
Day 1 – Foundations of 21st century skills in public service
- Introduction to 21st-century skills for public administration and essential service professionals;
- Overview of critical thinking and problem-solving techniques;
- Cultivating creativity and innovation in public service;
- Introduction to the LEGO Serious Play method;
- Hands-on LEGO building exercises to stimulate creativity and problem-solving.
Day 2 – Effective communication and collaboration
- Enhancing communication skills for effective engagement;
- Strategies for fostering collaboration and teamwork;
- Role-playing scenarios to practice effective communication and collaboration;
- Group activities using LEGO Serious Play to promote transparency and consensus-building;
- Practical exercises to strengthen interpersonal communication skills.
Day 3 – Leveraging technology and chatbots for enhanced productivity
- Introduction to technological literacy for public service professionals;
- Overview of chatbots and their applications in increasing productivity;
- Hands-on training on chatbot development and customization;
- Strategies for addressing ethical considerations in chatbot implementation.
Day 4 – Embracing diversity, ethics, and social responsibility
- Understanding cultural competence and diversity awareness in public service;
- Promoting inclusivity and equity in service provision;
- Interactive discussions on ethical leadership and social responsibility;
- Group activities using design thinking to develop strategies for promoting social responsibility within organizations;
- Case studies exploring ethical dilemmas in public administration.
Day 5 – Resilience, Well-being, and Continuous Improvement
- Prioritizing resilience and well-being in the workplace;
- Stress management techniques and self-care strategies for public service professionals;
- Group discussions on applying 21st-century skills in daily practice;
- Development of personalized action plans for skill enhancement;
- Peer feedback and sharing of action plans.
Day 6 – Course closure and cultural activities
- Course evaluation: round-up of acquired competencies, feedback, and discussion;
- Awarding of the course Certificate of Attendance;
- Excursion and other external cultural activities.
