TOY - Trainers Online for Youth
This is a reference for Stefano Di Maria
The aim of the study session is to train future trainers. The objectives are as follows:
1. To improve personal trainer’s skills of pax in order to become members of DBYN’s PoT, and
deliver training both the local and the international level within the framework of the renewed
educational methodology.
2. To initiate the continued process of self-directed learning and self-reflection as trainers.
3. To create a strong learning environment where pax learn from each other, build interpersonal
networks and learn to use the existing framework of DBYN.
4. To empower and support pax to get engaged in international activities and processes, in the
framework of the DBYN.
13 pax from 12 countries
4 trainers from 4 countries
1 course director
The training employed non-formal education (NFE) methods. These included a learner-centered approach, where participants (pax) actively participated in their learning process through a combination of theoretical frameworks and practical applications. Activities involved team assignments, mentoring sessions, and open spaces for peer learning and expert input. For example, participants worked in teams to develop and deliver training sessions, which were evaluated and adapted for further use. Additionally, the program integrated elements of Human Rights Education (HRE) and Don Bosco’s educational methodology
The training aimed to equip participants with the skills to deliver training sessions at both the local and international levels. Participants were expected to join the Pool of Trainers (PoT) for future youth work activities, contributing to the broader mission of Don Bosco Youth-Net (DBYN). Success indicators included the participants' ability to design and deliver training modules, participation in DBYN’s future work plans, and engagement in multilateral activities. Evidence of success is documented through DBYN’s work plans, and publications related to this training may be available through the organization's website or internal reports
I co-designed the activity with the team, coached a group, and I've done mentoring with a group of participants as a certified trainer. Additionally, I collaborated with the Course Director to debrief and evaluate participants' learning progress throughout the training.
Stefano was a trainer for this activity. He guided the participants at the beginning and also empowered them for them to be able to create their own sessions and have a first practical experience in order to be competent trainers by the end of the week, able to deliver training themselves. He was in charge of a number of participants who he mentored during the week.
His style and way with participants and team were appreciated. In the team, he is able to bring ideas and reflect on ideas of others, leading to the whole preparation and following up to be elevated, increasing the quality of the training.