From March 11 – 16, 2025, an international training course focused on the use of AI and IT tools in youth work took place in Čadca. It was attended by 16 youth workers from 9 countries 🇦🇲🇬🇪🇨🇿🇧🇪🇮🇹🇹🇷🇪🇸🇩🇪🇸🇰, who spent the week exploring innovative methods and tools to enhance their work.
Day 1: IT Tools in Everyday Practice
The training began with an overview of IT tools that simplify and modernize youth work. Participants got acquainted with platforms like Canva, Mailchimp, Mentimeter, Wordwall, Kahoot, Flippity, and Padlet, which help create interactive content. In the afternoon session, we focused on text and image generation using AI, discussing the most effective tools and their practical applications.
https://www.keric.sk/en/workshops-and-trainings/1650-training-ai-and-it-tools-for-youth-workers#sigProIdc7bf92fae8
Day 2: A Deep Dive into Artificial Intelligence
On this day, Peter Gustafík led a training session on AI. He introduced participants to how large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT function and their applications in education and youth work. We discussed:
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How LLMs work – their probabilistic nature, differences from search engines, and limitations.
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AI in education – opportunities and challenges, including ethical concerns.
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Practical aspects of AI – crafting high-quality AI prompts and generating content (texts, images, videos).
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Legal and ethical issues – including the European AI Act and concerns about automation and AI-driven decision-making.
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Human-centered AI – the importance of balancing AI with human creativity and critical thinking.
https://www.keric.sk/en/workshops-and-trainings/1650-training-ai-and-it-tools-for-youth-workers#sigProIdf6cf06b40e
Day 3: Applying Acquired Knowledge
Participants tested the practical application of their newly gained knowledge by creating materials and content. The second part of the day was dedicated to networking and collaboration between organizations – each participant introduced their organization, and we discussed potential joint projects for the future.
Day 4: Unconventional Networking on a Hike to Chleb
We spent the fourth day in nature, facing a challenge – hiking to the peak of Chleb. The weather was on our side – a sunny day, lots of snow, and temperatures around -15°C. Despite the cold, we fully enjoyed the hike, which turned out to be a great experience for many.
https://www.keric.sk/en/workshops-and-trainings/1650-training-ai-and-it-tools-for-youth-workers#sigProId46b3069534
Conclusion
The entire week was filled with inspiration, new knowledge, and international cooperation. We thank Peter Gustafík for his expertise and all participants for sharing their experiences and ideas.
This training was fully funded by the Erasmus+ program.
