In June 2025, two lecturers from the Accademia delle Arti e Nuove Tecnologie (AANT) took part in an international training programme under the Erasmus+ Staff Training Mobility initiative. Valerio Di Paola, coordinator of the Bachelor’s Degree in Videomaking, and Emanuele Tarducci, coordinator of the Bachelor’s Degree in UX/UI and Interaction Design, attended two intensive courses held at the Atlantic Language School in Galway, Ireland. Di Paola took part in the course “English Language & Irish Culture”, while Tarducci participated in “Lecturing Effectively in English”, both delivered at the Irish campus of Atlantic Language.
The course “English Language & Irish Culture”, attended by Valerio Di Paola, focused on enhancing English language skills through full immersion in Irish culture. The training activities emphasised the discovery of Ireland’s cultural heritage, with a particular focus on traditional storytelling, local music, and regional traditions, offering participants a meaningful experience of intercultural exchange. Throughout the training week, lecturers from various European countries explored key aspects of Irish life and society through presentations, educational projects, traditional music sessions, and interactions with the local community.
The “Lecturing Effectively in English” course attended by Emanuele Tarducci was designed to refine the teaching methodologies of lecturers and trainers working in international contexts. Key topics included the application of CLIL (Content and Language Integrated Learning) principles to teaching in English, and strategies for effectively structuring a lecture—from the introduction to the development of core ideas and conclusion—while selecting the most appropriate language register for the audience. Special attention was also given to the ability to clearly “signpost” key concepts during lessons, as well as to the use of visual aids and non-verbal communication to make lectures more engaging and accessible. The course also included hands-on exercises and peer-to-peer interaction, allowing participants to apply what they had learned and exchange feedback and ideas to enhance teaching effectiveness.
Atlantic Language Galway, the host institution, is an accredited language school under the Erasmus+ Programme, offering a wide range of courses specifically designed for professionals in the education sector, including teachers, academics, researchers, and administrative staff. As a recognised Erasmus+ provider, Atlantic Language boasts over thirty years of experience and delivers high-level professional development opportunities for educators and academic staff from across Europe.
This international training experience is part of AANT’s ongoing commitment to professional development for its faculty. Initiatives like the Erasmus+ Staff Training Mobility contribute to enriching the expertise of AANT’s teaching staff and further strengthening the Academy’s international outlook.