Training program on communications for vocational education staff
In the educational environment of Ukraine, there is a situation where vocational professions, which can provide young people with income and self-realization, are undervalued, and vocational education institutions themselves are marginalized: they have to compete not only with institutions of a similar profile but also with universities.
In such conditions, promoting vocational education becomes critically important. The success of the admissions campaign today depends, among other things, on whether vocational education institutions can properly build their reputation, attract the right target audiences, and present themselves in a way that is visible and appealing to prospective students.
«VydnoKurs» is an educational program in communications. In four modules, we explain how to develop a communication plan, effectively work on social media and with the media, learn to create images and videos, as well as write clear and engaging texts.
«ВидноКурс» — це навчальна програма з комунікацій. У чотирьох модулях ми розпові- даємо про те, як розробити комунікаційний план, ефективно працювати в соціальних мережах та з медіа, навчитися створювати зображення, відео, а також писати зрозумілі та цікаві тексти.
In «VydnoKurs» we combined theoretical learning (video lectures featuring experts in working with texts, social media, and video) with practice: online meetings once a week for four months with active participation and collaboration of the participants.
We designed the educational program from scratch and curated the creation of video lectures, which became the foundation of the communications course for vocational schools on the Ministry of Education's "Professional Education Online" platform.
Based on the course, we created a communications guide«VydnoGuide».
program name
slogan
visual style
design of the educational program
educational materials in collaboration with expert instructors
practical session scripts
accompanying guide
a comprehensive video course with 56 videos
practical training of participants in 5 groups: online meetings weekly for four months, homework assignments, mentor support via email and Viber
participants (including from "temporarily relocated" institutions)
formed groups-communities of vocational educators in Viber
communication plans prepared
participants improved their skills in writing press releases for the media
participants improved their skills in writing social media posts
digital plans prepared
messages of "my power went out 😅" during practical sessions
We formulated communication goals, crafted a key message, improved the style of our Instagram page, and identified influencers we can collaborate with, – participant from Lviv Higher Vocational School of Food Technologies.
Completely changed the format of working with the media and social networks. Redesigned advertising posts. Planned a series of career guidance seminars for the new academic year, taking into account the knowledge gained from«VydnoKurs». Filmed material about the educational institution, incorporating advice from «VydnoKurs» – participant from the Training and Methodological Center for Vocational Education in the Odesa region.
Gained substantial knowledge to improve social media work and motivation for my colleagues to enhance this work. Analyzed the website's performance and outlined ways to increase its effectiveness, – participant from Central Professional and Practical Training Center №1, Kryvyi Rih.
Relevant and modern information works for vocational education institutions! We not only understood this but also had the opportunity to practically implement our ideas throughout the course. Among the priorities for the near future are the communication goals of the Career Center, promoting work with talented youth, creating and disseminating informational content about the admissions campaign, etc. Immense gratitude to the project leaders of «VydnoKurs» speakers, and presenters, you all together created the aura of a European vocational education system that has captivated not only our social networks but also our hearts. A wonderful, warm, albeit online, atmosphere united caring educators into a friendly team of like-minded individuals who will change perceptions of vocational education, overcoming stereotypes of inferiority. Ukraine will be rebuilt by skilled hands! Together to victory! – participant from Ternopil Vocational School of Services and Tourism.
