Koolitus “Critical Eye Reading Digital Media Training Course” Poolas (26.07-2.08)

Training Course | 26 July – 2 August 2025 | Pniewy, Poland
Application deadline: 1 June 2025

About the Training Course

The digital world is saturated with information—some of it helpful, much of it harmful. From misinformation and media bias to polarising narratives and clickbait, navigating today’s media landscape requires critical awareness and digital literacy.

“Critical Eye: Reading Digital Media” is an international training course aimed at youth workers, educators, volunteers, and young community leaders who want to deepen their understanding of digital media and explore how it can be used to foster peace, inclusion, and social justice.

This training is part of the Peace INfluencers project—a broader initiative to empower young people to become responsible digital creators and advocates for peace.

Training Objectives

Participants in this training course will:

• Develop critical media literacy skills to understand, assess, and deconstruct online content

• Learn to identify misinformation, detect bias, and evaluate source credibility

• Explore how media narratives shape public opinion, identities, and conflict

• Understand how digital media can either escalate tensions or support reconciliation and peacebuilding

• Gain tools to promote inclusive and constructive digital dialogue

• Learn from real examples and case studies of peace-oriented digital activism

By the end of the training, participants will be better equipped to support others in navigating media critically and to use digital platforms as tools for awareness-raising and community engagement.

Methodology

The training is based on non-formal education principles. It will combine theory with hands-on practice and peer learning. Methods include:

• Interactive workshops and simulations

• Group work and collaborative problem-solving

• Facilitated discussions and reflection sessions

• Digital and offline tools to explore different media formats

• Time for digital detox and informal exchange in a peaceful environment

While online tools will be used during certain sessions, the training will include moments to disconnect, reflect, and build human connections in a natural setting.

The programme will be shaped according to the learning needs and interests of the participants. A draft agenda will be shared with selected participants, and adjustments may be made based on input collected through the application process.

Who Can Apply

We are looking for motivated individuals who:

• Are 18 years old or older

• Reside in one of the following countries: Bulgaria, Estonia, France, Italy, North Macedonia, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Spain, or Turkey

• Are actively engaged in youth work, peacebuilding, community development, or media-related activities

• Can commit to the entire duration of the training: from arrival on 26 July to departure on 2 August 2025

• Are ready to engage in preparatory tasks before the training, including completing a questionnaire and attending an online preparatory meeting

• Are willing to carry out a follow-up activity in their local community after the training

• Have a working knowledge of English, as the training will be conducted in English
  We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, or previous experience. The training aims to foster an inclusive, respectful, and safe learning environment for everyone.

Practical Information

Travel and Reimbursement

Travel costs will be reimbursed after the training course based on the actual cost of tickets, up to a maximum amount per country (see table below). Reimbursement is conditional on:

• Providing all original travel documents (tickets, invoices, boarding passes)

• Submitting them within the agreed timeframe after the training

• Using a consistent route for arrival and departure

Maximum travel reimbursement per participant:

*Participants from Poland are eligible for reimbursement only if they travel more than 50 km to reach the venue.

Accommodation and Meals

Participants will be accommodated in a school dormitory in Pniewy, near Poznań. Rooms are shared (three participants per room) with shared bathroom facilities.

Three vegetarian meals per day will be provided, with vegan options available upon request. This reflects SCI’s commitment to sustainability and climate-conscious living.

About the Organisers

Service Civil International (SCI) is one of the world’s oldest international peace organisations. Founded in 1920 by Swiss pacifist Pierre Cérésole, SCI promotes peace and intercultural understanding through international voluntary service. It has grown into a global network with branches and partner organisations in over 40 countries.

Stowarzyszenie Jeden Świat – SCI Poland (One World Association) is the Polish branch of SCI. It coordinates volunteer programmes, educational projects, and advocacy efforts aimed at fostering social responsibility, equality, and peaceful dialogue among youth and communities.

Peace INfluencers is a Europe-wide initiative focused on building a network of young digital creators who use their platforms to advocate for peace and counter harmful narratives online. This training course is the first learning activity within the project.

How to Apply

To apply for the training, please complete the online application form by 1 June 2025. The form will ask for your background, motivation, and learning expectations. Shortlisted applicants will be contacted soon after the deadline with further details.

Selected participants will be guided through the preparation process, including completing pre-training tasks and joining a short online introduction meeting.

Questions?

For further information or clarification, please contact:
Hamza – projects@poland.sci.ngo