The project innovates the VET themes in the field of bio-farming through introduction of the subject of bio-fertilizers, which are alternative in modern agriculture to substitute agrochemicals, causing increasing production costs and problems for the environment. The use of bio-fertilizers is a viable alternative to improve the profitability of crops, particularly for agriculture on medium and small-sized farms with intensive production systems, such as vegetables. Given that bio-fertilizers can be produced on the farm and used successfully in crop production, the Bio-FIT programme can successfully contribute to stimulate small and medium business as well as to enhance the employability in the sector. Thus, investing in the education in the innovative technologies in bio-farming a strong ecological feedback is expected. Following all these, the Bio-FIT programme is foreseen:
Since VET professionals are recognized as an important source of knowledge, the following basic requirements for changing the role of trainers are included in the Erasmus + programme: improvement of subject competence; establishment of links between theory and practice; and use of learner-centered approach. The Bio-FIT target beneficiaries: teachers, trainers, learning facilitators, guidance professionals, school/institution managers and political decision makers are the selected players to fit these requirements.
The novelty of Bio-FIT is supported by the need for updated educational EQF based approach for training of already mentioned target groups in biological farming by use of bio-fertilizers curriculum. It is based on Units of Learning Outcomes designed in accordance with ISCO/ESCO system for qualification description. This approach gives opportunity for future development and transfer of well educated professionals in Bio-FIT field at a broad EU scale. Given these changes in the structure of VET qualification description, this work-related training in the sector will be strengthened across different EU countries.
Bio-FIT project proposes a blended learning platform structured as a knowledge-based matrix matching the innovative qualification description in that field. It is a core element of a learning material concerning bio-fertilizers production and application designed on the principles of ECVET and EQF technical specifications. This enables the introduction of ECVET based learning material to Europe through a digital platform in order to increase the skills of the trainees. Using workshops and seminars the programme is researched and tested. Also, a selection of the good practices and qualitative instruments of job-embedded training are done. This outlines the best EU educational examples (based on a web portal) and testing qualitative instruments to integrate job-embedded learning in the curricula (life story interview, PPT, portfolio). The Bio-FIT meetings between partners enable selection and adoption of “training on the job” best practices. This facilitates building up of community between workplace (canvassing partners) and educational institutions providing VET in the partner countries.
Another innovative aspect of the new Bio-FIT project is the transparent approach for creation of transferable Green Qualification Passports in accordance with EQF and ECVET framework. The launched Strategic Partnership in the field of biological fertilizers includes these documents to establish of a joint trans-European competence based VET model. It also considers NQFs and multiplies the impact of knowledge sharing and mutual learning among the Bio-FIT partners. This model can be implemented in formal/non formal VET in accordance with existing curricula, and strengthen the positive professional mind-sets to enhance innovative competencies and to unlock business opportunities in the future.
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