Erasmus+ Mobility in Germany: Theatre Methods and Experiential Pedagogy for Adult Education

Between 1 and 4 May 2025, a representative of Asociația Active Yourope took part in an Erasmus+ job shadowing mobility in Wiesbaden, Germany, hosted by the organisation arco - Erlebnispädagogik e.V. This international experience focused on developing innovative pedagogical skills through creative learning methods, with a special emphasis on theatre pedagogy and learning through movement.

Main objectives of the mobility

• developing skills in experiential pedagogy;
• exploring theatre methods in adult education;
• understanding learning-through-movement techniques;
• building international Erasmus+ partnerships.

Activities and pedagogical methods explored

Orientation session and presentation of the host organisation

The mobility began with a comprehensive orientation session that presented the core values, mission and activity portfolio of arco - Erlebnispädagogik e.V., a leading organisation in the field of experiential pedagogy in Germany.

A central element of the programme was the round table on theatre techniques applied in adult training:

• pantomime - developing non-verbal communication;
• improvisation - stimulating creativity and adaptability;
• body language - improving emotional expression;
• intercultural understanding through dramatic techniques.

Taking part in demonstration workshops offered the opportunity to observe in real time:

• the positive impact of theatre techniques on adults;
• the integration of principles from Gestalt therapy;
• ways of regulating emotions through movement;
• the stimulation of cognitive development through physical activities.

An essential aspect of the placement was the evaluation of the professional-development programmes offered by the host organisation. This analysis highlighted:

• training models that combine theory with practice;
• alignment with the real needs of the labour market;
• the adaptation of content to the specifics of adult education.

The meetings with local staff and international educators generated:

• concrete opportunities for transnational collaboration;
• the development of European professional networks;
• the launch of joint Erasmus+ educational projects.

At the end of the mobility, the facilitated reflection session made it possible to:

• identify methods that are transferable to the Romanian context;
• adapt the techniques learned to local specifics;
• create a concrete action plan.

Integrating the methods into future activities

Asociația Active Yourope has developed a strategy for:

• implementing theatre techniques in its educational programmes;
• adopting holistic approaches in adult training;
• developing innovative programmes based on experiential pedagogy.

The impact of the Erasmus+ mobility

This job shadowing experience in Germany is a successful example of the Erasmus+ programme for adult education, demonstrating the value of:

• exchanges of best practices at European level;
• creative methods in non-formal education;
• international partnerships for pedagogical innovation.