Visual Vibe!

From August 9th to 17th, the small town of Osieck became the meeting point for an Erasmus+ training course dedicated to visual thinking and graphic facilitation. Organized by YoWo Poland, Visual Vibes gathered participants from different parts of Europe who were interested in how simple drawings and visual tools can support education, teamwork, and communication. The idea behind the project was straightforward: to show that visuals can help organize thoughts, explain ideas, and make group processes clearer. The topic attracted youth workers and educators who were curious to see how these methods could work in practice.

At the beginning, some participants wondered whether drawing, often seen as a talent rather than a skill, could really play a role in education. Others were unsure how visuals might influence group work. As the training unfolded, it became clear that visualization is less about artistic ability and more about clarity and structure. During the week, the group worked with basic shapes, icons, and layouts, gradually learning how to use them to express ideas. Working in a natural and calm environment helped create space for focus and experimentation. Of course, applying visuals to learning wasn’t always easy.

Many participants needed time to feel comfortable putting their drawings on paper, but thanks to the non-formal education approach and a supportive atmosphere, they had the freedom to try things out without pressure. Activities like Walk & Talk, the 30 Circles Challenge, and creating shared guidelines for cooperation helped the group connect and build trust early on. As the days went by, the training shifted toward more advanced techniques—developing personal visual vocabularies, designing templates for group activities, and exploring how layout, color, and symbols can help structure information. One of the most demanding exercises was graphic recording, where participants practiced capturing discussions in real time. It required quick decisions and attentive listening, and for many, it was a completely new way of working.

The last part of the training focused on bringing everything together. Participants prepared their own small projects, reflected on what they had learned, and exchanged ideas on how visualization could support their work back home. They also discussed further opportunities within Erasmus+, as well as potential future collaborations. For many, the week in Osieck provided a solid introduction to visual methods and offered practical tools they can now use in non-formal education and group work. Organized and facilitated by YoWo Poland, Visual Vibes highlighted how simple visuals can make communication easier and support learning processes in a clear and accessible way.

Project funded by the Erasmus+ Programme and approved by the Polish National Agency