The CO-HOST (Creating Opportunities for VET Mobility in Hospitality and Tourism) project is aimed to reinforce a greener transition in the tourist sector, enhancing skills and competences of VET learners and to improve and modernize the VET system in WB countries. VET Technical School Korçë, as a partner in this project, after creating the national network with five VET schools in our region and having signed The Memorandum of Understanding with the respective directors, helped in the development of the MOOC, aimed at revolutionising the organisation of quality mobility projects. Here’s a brief overview of how the teachers are involved in this platform and virtual exchanges as well.
During the first year of the project, a focus group meeting was held where all the participants were explained about the creation of the national network, the involvement of VET teachers in this network and the launch of the MOOC platform.
Everything was explained in detail especially before signing the Memorandum of Understanding.
Then, after coming back from Sofie, where the function of the platform was discussed thoroughly, a meeting was held at VET Technical school, where we explained the next steps of the project, part of which was the MOOC platform.
Later, in February 2024, the first Multiplier event was held in a hybrid way together with UCB through an online connection.
During the event, among reporting the things achieved so far from the project, strong attention was paid to the MOOC platform and its importance regarding the Quality in Mobility and Recognition of Learning outcomes.
Firstly, we presented a short guide to the platform and fliers were handed out so that they could understand better what was being talked about.
Then, we invited teachers to stay after the event so that they could do the registration on the MOOC under our supervision because the platform is in English and they might need help.
They were introduced to the calendar of the MOOC, containing four modules in total and were asked to check their emails regularly.
To keep teachers engaged, a WhatsApp group was created, where they were reminded about the realise of each module and the link of registration was send in case they had not checked their email.
Post on the Facebook of our school’s page have been done on regular basis.
Most of the teachers registered on the platform, were engaged on the virtual exchanges and their impressions are positive towards its contents and organisation.
They are more experienced now about internalisation process and mobilities.
This is an ongoing process during all the project timeline. The network fosters an online community where teachers can share their experiences, challenges, and successes. This collaborative platform not only focus in problem-solving but also sparks innovation as educators learn from each other’s creative approaches and solutions.
Conclusion The National Network for CO-HOST is significantly enhancing VET in hospitality and tourism. By connecting schools, the network ensures that teachers receive the support they need to excel. Through professional development, mentorship, resource sharing, and international mobility, CO-HOST is setting a new standard for vocational education, ultimately benefiting students and contributing to sustainable socio-economic development.
