The Role and Importance of eTwinning Projects in Sustainable Education

eTwinning Projelerinin Sürdürülebilir Eğitimdeki Rolü ve Önemi

Abstract

The aim of this research is to deeply examine the effects of eTwinning projects on students and teachers and to reveal the contributions of these projects to educational processes. In addition, it aims to understand the reflections of project experiences of teachers and students on educational practices and learning processes by investigating the experiences of the participants and the transformational effects of eTwinning on individuals. The general screening model was used in the research. According to the conclusions of the research; eTwinning projects enable students to meet cultural diversity, understand different perspectives and grow up as global citizens. The project-based collaborative learning approach focuses on developing active participation, problem solving, creative thinking and communication skills by focusing on students. eTwinning projects offer students interactive and meaningful learning experiences to achieve these goals. In terms of their contributions to school culture, eTwinning projects encourage student-centered learning environments, students' active roles in teams increase their cultural awareness and contribute to their awareness of digital citizenship rights. According to technology use skills; eTwinning projects aim to provide students with digital competence. Projects provide students with the opportunity to use various digital tools effectively and help students develop their skills in this area by actively using information and communication technologies. eTwinning projects play an important role in strengthening 21st century skills, increasing cultural understanding, encouraging student-centered learning and developing technology use skills. These projects support the transformation in education and help students and teachers become more equipped and versatile individuals. According to the participants' views, students thought about what steps they should take in the face of the difficulties they encountered in the projects and tried to find solutions. These experiences broadened their perspectives on real-life problems and made them aware of various issues. For example, in projects for stray animals, students' production of practical solutions such as building or feeding nests enabled them to become sensitive and solution-oriented individuals not only in the projects but also in their real lives. In addition, the projects developed skills such as time management, cooperation, planning and project management. While students worked to complete their projects within a certain period of time, they understood the importance of time and gained systematic working habits. In terms of their effects on creativity, the projects showed that students developed their problem-solving abilities and creative thinking skills. Students have produced new ideas by collaborating with peers from different cultures and perspectives. The role of eTwinning projects in education provides an important platform for students to develop global citizenship awareness. These projects provide students with the opportunity to collaborate internationally and develop their digital creativity skills. In conclusion, eTwinning projects are one of the effective examples of project-based collaborative learning approaches and provide a number of advantages to students, teachers, school culture and technology use skills in various aspects discussed in this research.