2 Youth Wokers from Know and Can Took Part in an International Training on Visual Communication in Spain
Last week, 2 youth workers sent by Know and Can Association actively participated in an international training course under the Erasmus+ Programme, sending two volunteers to the course “Visually Speaking”, held from 16 to 22 March 2026 in Alicante.
A Learning Experience Beyond Words
The training gathered youth workers, educators, and NGO representatives from across Europe, creating a dynamic environment for collaboration, creativity, and exchange of practices. The course focused on one essential question: How can we communicate ideas more effectively in a world that increasingly relies on visual information?
Over five intensive activity days (17–21 March), participants explored innovative methods that go beyond traditional text-based communication. Through non-formal education approaches, the training emphasized the power of visual storytelling, imagery, and creative thinking as universal languages that can bridge cultural and linguistic differences.
Key Activities and Methodology
The programme combined hands-on workshops, group work, and reflection sessions. Among the most impactful activities were:
-
Breaking the “I can’t draw” mindset through creative warm-ups that encouraged experimentation and confidence
-
Developing visual metaphors to represent complex ideas in simple and engaging ways
-
Mapping stories visually, transforming abstract concepts into structured narratives
-
Exploring lateral thinking techniques to stimulate creativity and problem-solving
-
Creating visual mood boards and avatars, helping participants express identity, expectations, and learning journeys
-
Group labs, where participants collaboratively designed visual tools and concepts
-
Introduction to digital tools, such as graphic design platforms, to transform hand-drawn ideas into digital formats
Daily reflection sessions provided space for participants to process their learning, exchange feedback, and connect insights to their professional practice.
Why Visual Communication Matters
In youth work, communication is not only about transmitting information—it is about engagement, inclusion, and understanding. Visual methods play a crucial role, especially in multicultural and multilingual environments, where language barriers can limit participation.
The training highlighted how simple visual techniques can:
-
Make learning more accessible and inclusive
-
Support young people in expressing emotions and ideas
-
Increase engagement and attention
-
Simplify complex topics and processes
Importantly, the course demonstrated that visual communication is not reserved for artists—it is a practical skill that can be developed by anyone.
Learning Outcomes and Impact
By the end of the training, participants had strengthened their ability to:
-
Use visual storytelling as an educational tool
-
Apply creative and lateral thinking in their daily work
-
Communicate ideas clearly using images instead of relying solely on text
-
Design engaging and inclusive learning experiences for young people
A key outcome of the project is the co-creation of the “Visual Stories” guide—a collective resource that gathers methods, tools, and visual approaches developed during the training. This open-access guide will support further dissemination and ensure long-term impact across youth organisations in Europe.
Looking Ahead
The participation of Know and Can’s volunteers in this training marks another step towards enhancing the organisation’s capacity to deliver innovative, inclusive, and engaging educational activities. The newly acquired skills will be integrated into future initiatives, workshops, and projects, benefiting both young people and educators.
By investing in creativity and new communication approaches, Know and Can continues to strengthen its mission: to provide meaningful learning experiences that empower individuals and communities.
