Second Pilot Meeting Held within the Erasmus+ DeSIRe Project

n 5 June 2026, Vanadzor State University (VSU) hosted the second pilot event within the framework of the Erasmus+ DeSIRe Project, focusing on the pilot implementation of soft skills modules and Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs). The event aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the developed educational resources, assess their alignment with contemporary educational standards, and obtain expert feedback to support the further improvement of the courses. It was attended by experts from the European partner institutions: Philip Penney, representing the Institute of Art, Design and Technology (IADT) (Dún Laoghaire, Ireland), and Ignacio J. Blanco from the University of Granada, Spain. Their visit provided an important opportunity to strengthen international cooperation, exchange professional expertise, and jointly evaluate the outcomes achieved within the project.

The programme began with the observation of two soft skills modules developed under the DeSIRe Project: Module 4: “Prioritisation and Decision-Making Skills” and Module 5: “Creative Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills.” These modules were designed in accordance with student-centred learning principles and focused on fostering active learner engagement, collaborative learning, critical and creative thinking, and effective decision-making. The interactive teaching methods and practical activities incorporated into the modules encouraged active participation and enhanced the overall learning experience. Following the classroom observations, participants continued their professional discussions during a coffee break in an informal setting, providing an opportunity to exchange views, share observations, and discuss prospects for future collaboration.

The event continued with the presentation of two MOOCs developed within the DeSIRe Project and published on the Digital Observatory of Soft Skills platform: MOOC 1: “Effective Business Communication and Negotiation Skills” and MOOC 5: “Emotional and Social Intelligence.” The presentations introduced the structure, content, learning materials, and digital resources of the courses. Particular emphasis was placed on interactive learning approaches, the integration of multimedia tools, and mechanisms designed to support learners’ independent study.

The European experts highly commended the quality of the modules and online courses, highlighting their well-structured design, sound pedagogical foundation, and innovative educational approaches. They emphasized that the developed learning materials fully correspond to the requirements of contemporary higher education and effectively contribute to the development of communication, collaboration, leadership, critical thinking, problem-solving, as well as emotional and social intelligence. They also praised the effective use of the Digital Observatory of Soft Skills hosted on the Moodle platform, noting its significant contribution to the advancement of digital education and the promotion of lifelong learning.

At the conclusion of the event, Philip Penney and Ignacio J. Blanco delivered a masterclass focusing on the role of soft skills in higher education, employability, leadership, and lifelong learning. Participants had the opportunity to explore international best practices, discuss current challenges and emerging trends, and receive valuable professional insights.

Overall, the second pilot event was evaluated as highly successful and productive. It once again confirmed Vanadzor State University’s important role in advancing the modernization and digital transformation of higher education, as well as in strengthening international cooperation. The event demonstrated that the modules and MOOCs developed within the DeSIRe Project make a significant contribution to the creation of a student-centred, flexible, and future-oriented higher education environment, supporting both the enhancement of educational quality and the continuous development of learners’ soft skills.