Matija Eršek

Job Shadowing in Ljubljana, Slovenia

Name:  Matija Eršek

Position: Physical Education Teacher

School: Pantovčak Elementary School, Zagreb

Grades: 5th to 8th grade

Participation Dates: March 18th - 22nd, 2024

Location: Hinko Smrekar Elementary School, Ljubljana, Slovenia

Host and Mentor: Sebastjan Abbad

Introduction

From March 18th to 22nd, 2024, I participated in a Job Shadowing program—a form of Erasmus mobility that took place in Ljubljana at Hinko Smrekar Elementary School.

The school is named after the prominent Slovenian educator Hinko Smrekar. It offers education from the first to the ninth grade and has a rich program that encompasses various subjects and activities. This school, like any other, is an important part of the educational system in its community, promoting academic excellence and the overall development of students in all areas of life.

 Alongside me, my colleague, the computer science teacher Mr. Danijel Forjan, also participated in the program. As long-time teachers, we recognized an excellent opportunity in this program to enhance our teaching methods and further enrich the experience we provide to our students.

The Erasmus+ program offers a unique opportunity to learn abroad about new teaching and training methods and to develop lasting international networks with other vocational education and training institutions. Such activities can last from two days to two months, or in some cases, even up to a year.

From colleagues who had previously participated in Job Shadowing, I received extremely positive feedback on how such a program can greatly enrich knowledge about different educational systems, teaching methods, and more. During our stay at Hinko Smrekar Elementary School, we participated in daily school activities, observed classes, talked with students and teachers, and exchanged experiences with colleagues. This Job Shadowing was a valuable opportunity for professional development and discovering new approaches in education.

Reasons for Choosing Slovenia

 We chose Slovenia and Ljubljana due to the proximity and cultural similarity, but also because of the desire to get acquainted with the educational system of a country known for its high-quality education. Through this visit, we had the opportunity to compare teaching methods, observe how Slovenian teachers organize and conduct classes, and identify possible methods that we could apply in our practice.

 I had not previously had the opportunity to visit Slovenia and Ljubljana for more than a brief stopover on the way to other European countries. Therefore, this type of program provided me with the chance to get to know Slovenian culture, language, and the educational system more closely over several days. I was particularly interested in how physical education is conducted in Slovenian elementary schools. My goal was to broaden my professional and personal perspectives through interaction with colleagues.

Participation Objectives

1.Understanding the Slovenian Educational System:

 I wanted to learn more about how Slovenian elementary schools organize classes, particularly in physical education. The Slovenian elementary education system is designed to provide comprehensive education that combines various subjects and activities, including physical education and computer science. In Slovenia, elementary education lasts for nine years and is divided into three educational periods (triletja). Students complete elementary school with a national knowledge test, known as "Nacionalno preverjanje znanja" (National Knowledge Assessment). This test evaluates students' achievements on a national level. The physical education curriculum in Slovenia covers a wide range of activities, from basic gymnastics elements to team sports, with an emphasis on developing motor skills and teamwork.

Facilities;The school is very well equipped with sports equipment and has quality sports fields, allowing students to conduct physical education classes effectively. In general, most schools in Slovenia have their own sports halls, playgrounds, and access to swimming pools. Students have the opportunity to try different sports and physical activities, which helps them develop various motor skills and interests.

2.Professional Development:

I expected to gain new methods and approaches to teaching physical education that I could apply in my school. The goal of this visit was to expand my professional horizons, get to know the methods and approaches used by Slovenian teachers, and explore how physical education and computer science classes are conducted in Slovenian elementary schools. Slovenian physical education teachers use various innovative methods to bring the importance of physical activity closer to students. The classes are dynamic and involve many practical exercises and sports activities. The physical education curriculum includes a wide range of activities, including basic gymnastic exercises, athletics, team sports (football, basketball, handball), dance, swimming, and recreational activities.

3.Cultural Exchange and Health Education:

It was important for me to get acquainted with Slovenian culture and language and broaden my horizons through interaction with colleagues and collaborators of this program from Slovenia. Through physical education, students are educated about the importance of physical activity, healthy eating, and a generally healthy lifestyle. Team sports help develop social skills, team spirit, and fair play among students.

Day 1 – Monday

The first day began with a warm welcome from our host colleagues and a presentation of the school, where we received a detailed overview of their educational system. The school impressed us with its architecture and modernly equipped classrooms. Interaction with colleagues was truly at a commendable level of professionalism and friendliness, making us feel like part of the team right away. Observing various classes allowed us to see the practical application of theory in the classroom. It was an almost ideal example of international cooperation and professional development, fully meeting our expectations.

I had the opportunity to attend a computer science class with my colleague, Professor Danijel Forjan. This experience gave me better insight into the teacher's work and the organization of classes with the use of technology.

·        At the beginning of the class, the teacher outlined the lesson plan and greeted the students. He also introduced the principal and the pedagogue who were observing the mentoring.

·        The students engaged in practical tasks on computers. The teacher evaluated their work through oral questioning, reviewing homework, and additional activities such as making posters, presentations, videos, and reports.

·        Assessment for Learning:The teacher used qualitative feedback to monitor student progress. The focus was not on grades but on understanding the learning process and ways to improve outcomes. Assessment methods included rating scales and progress tracking.

·        Information about eDiary (eDnevnik), the way Slovenian teachers keep records of work, students, and their behavior. eAsistent is a solution for primary and secondary schools that includes eDiary for electronic school diary keeping, eRecordbook for timetable management, and a Notifier that informs parents about absences, grades, and covered material. eAsistent for parents helps them monitor their children's education. The eAsistent system has been developed for more than 10 years and covers all key processes in schools, supporting various types of schools, including primary and secondary schools, adult education schools, and special schools. eAsistent offers numerous functionalities such as eDiary, eRecordbook, notifications to parents, communication, and work-time tracking. The security of personal data of children, students, and pupils is ensured by administrators specialized in education according to the ISO 27001 standard. The "Give Lunch" project is another important eAsistent initiative, through which they have collected €186,531.21 and provided 77,079 meals for children. They believe that small steps can contribute to improving society, and social awareness and empathy towards others are above all the products and solutions they develop.

Biking Adventure in Ljubljana:

The biking tour through Ljubljana proved to be the perfect way to experience its natural beauty and unique spirit, allowing us to explore the city faster and with greater flexibility than we could in any other way. Bicycles were a fantastic choice due to their practicality and the speed that allowed us to tour the city efficiently. On bikes, we could quickly move from one attraction to another, while also enjoying the fresh air and picturesque surroundings.

 The ride began in the heart of Ljubljana, where we enjoyed the tranquil environment and greenery that this park offers in Gustav Tönnies Park. The ride then took us to the Monument of Resistance and Companionship, where we were reminded of the bravery and unity of Ljubljana's residents during World War II. As we moved along the park paths, we felt the rhythm of the city and observed how its residents spend their leisure time.

After that, we arrived at the Ljubljana Marsh Nature Park, the largest wetland area in Slovenia. We were amazed by the richness of flora and fauna that characterizes this unique landscape. Riding bikes through the park allowed us to get closer to nature in a way that would be difficult to achieve on foot or by car.

Next was Tivoli Park, the largest park in the city, where we enjoyed a harmonious combination of nature and culture, including fascinating open-air art exhibitions. Our biking route ended in the center of Ljubljana, where we strolled along the banks of the Ljubljanica River and admired the diverse architecture that testifies to the city's rich history. Every corner of Ljubljana revealed new attractions, from historical buildings to contemporary art installations.

 Day 2: Tuesday

 Introduction to the "Green Penguin" Project

This project, led by the company Iskraemeco, aims to promote energy efficiency and environmental protection among young people. Primary school students participate in educational workshops, games, and competitions that encourage them to think and act in the area of environmental conservation. Iskraemeco collaborates with teachers and schools to integrate sustainability messages into the school curriculum and raise awareness about the importance of environmental protection.

Green Penguin is a platform and app that teaches children, students, parents, and entire cities how to reduce emissions by using fewer resources and adopting sustainable lifestyles, thereby reducing environmental impact. It uses smart digital technologies, gamification, and quantification to educate about the environment and reduce CO2 emissions. Through an educational game, it allows school children to record their activities and combine the collected data with energy consumption and resource data from schools and other buildings.

This project is an excellent example of how each individual can impact the environment, provided they have enough knowledge and information. "Green Penguin" targets the younger population, teaching them sustainable living at an early age, which they will then share with their community

The afternoon was also dedicated to education when we visited a class where teachers demonstrated methods of working with therapy dogs. Our students had the opportunity to learn about the primary purpose of therapy dogs, the differences between therapy dogs and service dogs. We were especially delighted that teachers from Italy joined us, further strengthening our collaboration.

Day 3: Wednesday

The third day of our job shadowing program was truly filled with adventure and new discoveries. We started the morning with outdoor lessons with fifth-grade students. The first destination was Lake Cerknica, where the students enthusiastically explored the unique ecosystem and learned about its importance for local biodiversity. The next stop was Predjama Castle, an impressive fortress carved into the cliffs, providing students with fascinating insights into the rich history of the area. At the end of the day, we visited Postojna Cave, where students marveled at the spectacular stalactites and stalagmites and learned about the geological processes that shaped them. Each stop allowed students to ask questions and actively participate in discussions, revealing their curiosity and desire to learn. The teacher and guide enthusiastically answered questions, encouraging students to think and explore. Tomorrow at school will be an opportunity for students to demonstrate what they have learned, and we are confident that their knowledge will shine through during the assessment. This day was another reminder of how outdoor lessons can enrich the educational process and create unforgettable memories.

Day 4: Thursday

 Even in the first grades, significant efforts are made to raise students' environmental awareness, protect the environment, and teach recycling methods for everyday waste. For example, in first grade, a workshop was held where students made various items by turning environmentally harmful waste materials into useful new ones. For instance, students made flowers and similar items, showcasing exceptional talent and creativity. Such activities encourage creativity, environmental awareness, and are a perfect way to introduce the youngest students to the concept of recycling and the importance of preserving nature. Eighth and ninth-grade students became more familiar with the "Green Penguin" project, which is part of a European initiative aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable living. Through interactive workshops, students learned how to adapt their daily activities and change habits to contribute to a greener environment.

After the aforementioned activities, I had the opportunity to participate in three hours of physical education classes.

Physical education classes in Slovenian schools are conducted similarly to those in our schools, but some differences that I immediately noticed include separate class sections for boys and girls, a larger number of physical education teachers, and sometimes even two teachers in the same class section. Students who require it also have the option of having a personal assistant during physical education classes. In Slovenian schools, students have three hours of physical education per week.

My Slovenian colleagues also introduced me to their system in which each student has a Personal Sports Card – "Osebni športnovzgojni karton," which students can access via an online application to view their results from a series of tests conducted in Slovenian primary schools. Based on these tests, students can see whether their results are good or if there is something they need to improve. The school we visited is equipped with a modern gym and also with a room for sports games (table tennis, badminton, a climbing course), which students can use during breaks between classes.

I got the impression that Slovenian schools place more emphasis on students' functional and motor skills rather than motor knowledge, which ultimately contributes to a better and more active lifestyle for students, and consequently to their overall health.

 The day concluded with an additional presentation of the school's environmental activities, where students and teachers had the opportunity to share their experiences and ideas for future projects aimed at creating generations that are aware of their environmental impact and actively work towards its preservation.

TRIP TO LAKE BLED:

 One of the most famous lakes and most visited natural attractions in Slovenia. The town of the same name lies beside the emerald lake, as does the small island in the lake. Bled is a glacial lake located in the Julian Alps, at an altitude of 475 meters. This "glacial" lake is surprisingly warm as it is fed by several thermal springs. A walking trail follows the entire lake. In places, it is a wooden path right next to the lake, similar to Plitvice Lakes, while in other parts, it is a road shared with cyclists and occasional carriages.

The island in the lake is the only natural island in Slovenia, located on Lake Bled. The first church on the island was built in the 12th century, and its current appearance dates back to the 17th century.

On the island, you must ring the bell, which according to legend, fulfills all wishes! It was a wonderful experience and a unique opportunity to experience the combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage of Slovenia. I can freely say that Lake Bled is a true gem of Slovenia. The fairy-tale lake and island are truly a little treasure in the heart of Slovenia.

Day 5: Friday

The fifth day in Ljubljana was filled with insights and interactive learning. The day was marked by presentations of ecological projects, during which students and teachers exchanged ideas on sustainable development and its application in the school environment. It was particularly interesting to see how theoretical knowledge is put into practice through projects that are already yielding tangible results within the school community.

The visit to the math class provided insight into how mathematical concepts can be presented in an engaging and interactive way. Students were actively engaged and motivated, and technology was used to visualize and better understand complex topics. The history lesson was particularly exciting.

Students worked in groups on a project about the Roman Empire, exploring various aspects of life, food, clothing, and the impact Rome had on the modern world. They developed critical thinking and teamwork skills while learning about the importance of history. The highlight of the day was a number game inspired by the Romans, where students used Roman numerals to solve mathematical puzzles. This game not only tested their mathematical knowledge but also brought historical lessons to life, making the study of history fun and interactive. Like all the previous days, this day once again demonstrated how the combination of ecological education, mathematics, and history can create a rich and dynamic classroom experience that prepares students for future challenges.

Application in Practice

ACTIVITIES

 Job Shadowing: Project Green Penguin**

 Activity Name: Computer through the Lens of Earth Day

Number of Participants: 21 students, 6th grade, during IT class

Activity Outcomes: Students will develop ecological critical thinking and attitudes through independent and collaborative work, which they will apply in everyday life (nature protection, recycling).

Curriculum Link: Connection with the educational outcomes of subjects Nature and Society, Croatian Language, Biology, and Informatics

Required:Computer, Teams, Canva, Padlet applications, YouTube videos

Detailed Description of the Activity:

 Tasks:

PRACTICAL TASK 1: Explore the link of the "Green Penguin" project - LINK.

PRACTICAL TASK 2:Complete the digital footprint through the LINK provided in the task

Since our country is not on the list, select Slovenia. Send the results at the end as a screenshot. Paste the photos on the Padlet board.

PRACTICAL TASK 3:For this part of the task, you will use Canva. Think about the topic of ecology and protecting the planet Earth. In what ways could you and all of us help reduce pollution in your town or neighborhood in the future? What actions can help keep our environment beautiful and clean for future generations? What are the everyday problems related to environmental pollution, climate change, etc.? Create a poster or short video where you present new ideas and your thoughts on protecting nature and how to educate people about environmental pollution issues. Paste your work on the Padlet board in the form of a link that must be visible to everyone and not editable.

Ecological Action in the School Environment: 6th-grade students participated in an ecological action at school, which included landscaping the school garden and cleaning the surroundings, preparing the soil, planting plants, and collecting trash.

Field Trip to Greenville Samobor Eco Farm:

 A visit by 6th-grade students to the eco-farm included the activity 'Little Eco Adventure,' combining environmental education with outdoor activities, giving students the opportunity to play, learn, and explore in a natural setting. As part of this workshop, students participated in interactive gardening activities, familiarized themselves with domestic animals, learned to navigate nature, engaged in creative activities like making animal feeders and insect hotels, and learned how to use the resources provided by nature. A particularly interesting workshop for the students was 'Wilderness Survival,' where they built shelters from natural materials and learned how to safely navigate through forest terrain.