The EmpowerVET project continues to redefine vocational education and training (VET) by integrating innovative, learner-centered methodologies with real-world experiences. One of the most impactful activities within the project was the international student training held in Spain, combining Design Thinking with an immersive journey along the Camino de Santiago. This unique approach transformed a traditional mobility activity into a high-value learning experience, where education moved beyond the classroom into a dynamic, experiential environment.
The training officially began at IES Ribeira do Louro, where students from different countries gathered to engage in team-building and project orientation activities. From the outset, the focus was clear: fostering collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Students were introduced to the core principles of Design Thinking—empathy, problem definition, ideation, prototyping, and testing—laying the foundation for the entire learning journey.
What made this training particularly distinctive was its structure. Instead of limiting activities to a static setting, the programme was designed to unfold along the Camino de Santiago. This strategic decision created a powerful learning ecosystem where participants could connect theory with practice in real-time. As students moved through the different stages of the journey, they simultaneously progressed through the phases of Design Thinking.
During the second day, which combined a maritime route and a short walking segment from Vilanova de Arousa to Padrón, students engaged in brainstorming sessions inspired by nature. The surrounding environment was not just a backdrop—it became a catalyst for innovation. Participants were encouraged to observe, reflect, and identify sustainability challenges, generating ideas that were both creative and grounded in real-life contexts.
The third day marked a shift from ideation to prototyping. As students continued along the Camino, they began transforming their ideas into tangible concepts. This hands-on approach emphasized rapid experimentation and adaptability. Using simple materials and leveraging the immediate environment, teams developed low-fidelity prototypes, testing assumptions and refining their solutions continuously. This phase demonstrated the value of learning-by-doing, a cornerstone of modern VET systems.
Testing and validation took place during the fourth day, as students approached Santiago de Compostela. In a real-world setting, participants presented their ideas informally, gathered feedback, and iterated their solutions. This immediate feedback loop enhanced critical thinking and reinforced the importance of user-centered design. The process not only improved the quality of the outcomes but also strengthened students’ confidence in communicating their ideas effectively.
The training concluded with formal project presentations back at the hosting institution. Each team showcased their developed solutions, highlighting the journey from problem identification to validated prototype. The final session included peer feedback and reflection, consolidating the learning outcomes and ensuring knowledge transfer among participants.
From a strategic perspective, this activity delivered multiple layers of impact. First, it enhanced students’ transversal skills, including teamwork, communication, and creativity. Second, it strengthened teachers’ capacity to implement innovative pedagogical approaches, as they actively participated as facilitators and observers throughout the process. Third, it contributed to the internationalisation of VET by fostering cross-cultural collaboration and exchange of practices.
Moreover, the integration of limited technology use during the activity encouraged participants to disconnect from digital distractions and engage more deeply with the learning process. This intentional design element supported focus, reflection, and authentic interaction—factors often overlooked in traditional training formats.
In conclusion, the EmpowerVET student training exemplifies how vocational education can evolve to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world. By combining experiential learning, Design Thinking, and international mobility, the project delivers a scalable model for modern VET systems. The Camino de Santiago was not just a route—it became a learning pathway, where students developed not only professional competences but also a broader mindset oriented towards innovation, sustainability, and collaboration.
EmpowerVET continues to demonstrate that when education is designed with purpose and creativity, the results go far beyond expected outcomes.
Disclaimer
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
