In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, professional development opportunities that combine digital innovation with inclusive teaching practices are essential for modern educators. This article chronicles the transformative journey of two dedicated teachers who participated in the „Super Teachers of the 21st Century” course in Paris, organized by Anatolia Education. Their experience represents a perfect blend of pedagogical advancement, cultural enrichment, and collaborative learning that exemplifies the spirit of European educational cooperation through the Erasmus program.
From exploring innovative icebreakers and comparing international educational systems to mastering digital tools and enhancing emotional intelligence, participants engaged in a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip them with the skills needed for 21st-century classrooms. The course seamlessly integrated theoretical knowledge with practical applications, including outdoor activities in the Luxembourg Gardens and the creation of personalized teaching agendas incorporating cutting-edge technology.
Beyond professional growth, participants immersed themselves in Parisian culture, visiting iconic landmarks such as the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and Versailles Palace, enriching their intercultural competencies. The skills acquired—ranging from AI implementation and digital assessment methods to inclusive website design and enhanced communication abilities—represent a valuable toolkit that will undoubtedly transform their teaching practice and benefit countless students in the years to come.
Our main activities during the „Super Teachers of the 21st Century” course held in Paris by Anatolia Education were interesting and diverse.
On the first day, the trainer presented himself and his career, and then we learnt about Icebreakers that can be used when we don’t know our students or know very little about them. The next day, we discussed the similarities and differences between the educational systems in France, Turkey, Greece, and Romania. The next subject addressed diverse learning needs. We talked about the students with SEN and the ones with learning disabilities. On the third day, we performed outdoor activities in the Luxembourg Gardens. The first one was digital, based on the app Actionbound, and the second one was Molkky Game, a Finnish throwing game with characteristics similar to games like bowling. On the fourth day, every participant created a personal agenda of innovative, technology-based teaching methods and presented it to the team.
We learnt about different digital applications that can be used during our activities and how we can create interesting games and digital content for our students. Another important subject was emotional intelligence. We discussed enhancing communication and interpersonal skills and reflected on emotional growth and resilience. Apart from the course, some cultural activities were scheduled. We visited the main touristic sights in Paris: The Basilica of the Sacre-Coeur Montmartre, The Museum d’Orsay, The Louvre Museum, The Eiffel Tower, The Notre-Dame Cathedral, The Versailles Palace and gardens, The Tuileries Gardens.
As a result of participating in the mobility activity, my colleague and I gained a lot of experience and knowledge and improved different skills, which will be very useful in our future teaching career.
Skills:
- gained the ability to design ICT
- supported inclusive learning environments
- learnt to apply AI tools in student
- centered and differentiated instruction
- strengthened capacity to assess students using digital and accessible methods
- improved skills in organizing digital learning materials effectively
- enhanced capability to foster creativity and motivation using technology
- acquired hands-on experience with learning management systems (Google Classroom, Moodle)
- used interactive and visual presentation tools such as Canva and Prezi
- created online assessments and games using Quizlet and Kahoot
- learned to design inclusive websites and blogs
- planned and structured inclusive lesson plans integrating ICT and AI
- organized personal digital teaching portfolios and online learning environments
- collaborated with peers to exchange ideas and future project plans
- managed time and tasks effectively during intensive, content-rich sessions
- developed intercultural competencies in a European training context
- gained insight into inclusive education practices across Europe
- strengthened reflective and critical thinking abilities
- increased confidence in using digital tools to support equity in education
- engaged in regular discussions, peer feedback, and collaborative planning
- presented inclusive lesson plans and received constructive feedback
- communicated ideas clearly and confidently in English
- improved ability to convey complex digital concepts to diverse audiences.
In conclusion, it was a very useful and interesting experience. All teachers should apply for an Erasmus grant at least once in their lifetime.