Familias
This past week, along with my colleague Steffi Dreher, I had the pleasure of conducting online training sessions organized by Diakonie Baden-Württemberg for young people participating in their Social Year (Freiwilliges Soziales Jahr) in the school context.
Content and Methodology
During these sessions, we covered various topics related to disability in the school environment:
- Autism
- Alternative learning spaces
- Distance and closeness in interaction
- Sexuality and disability
- Values and personal attitude
- Practical experience: Activities with sensory limitations
- Discussion forum
Aware of the challenges posed by online training, we emphasized keeping classes dynamic and engaging while encouraging active participation from attendees.
Practical Cases and Personalized Experiences
One of the most valued units was “practical cases,” where young participants shared concrete situations and challenges from their daily lives. This allowed personalized learning and created a safe space for exchanging experiences.
Experimental Activities
Participants had the opportunity to:
- Discover natural spaces as learning environments
- Shop and cook while simulating different disabilities (e.g., reduced vision or hearing, limited mobility)
Values and Reflection
My favorite section, “Values and Personal Attitude,” aims to provoke deep reflection and a change in perspective among volunteers.
We concluded the week with a discussion forum on crucial social topics such as:
- Should there be special education schools, or is full inclusion better?
- Should individuals adapt to their environment or vice versa?
These questions invite us to review our positions and understand the pros and cons of each situation.
Final Reflections
I really like to accompany these young people in their learning and personal growth journey. Working alongside Steffi Dreher, with whom I share a long history, enriches this experience even more.
I am delighted to see so many young people choosing this path of social service, adding great value to institutions while gaining essential experiences for their personal development.