The SpeakEase Project: Overcoming Glossophobia Together is an initiative funded by the European Union that aims to address the fear of public speaking, also known as glossophobia, in students aged 12 to 16.

The project will take place in five European countries (Bulgaria, Spain, Slovenia, Italy, and Lithuania) and involves eight partners, including schools, NGOs, and SMEs.

Partners:

  • Profesionalna gimnaziya po stroitelstvo, architektura i geodeziya “Penyo Penev” (PGSAG): Public vocational high school. (Bulgaria) / Coordinating entity.
  • Ragina Ltd: SME specialized in training and skills development. (Bulgaria)
  • Sca Alhucema- Colegio Ferroviario: Cooperative educational center. (Spain)
  • LIFE4YOU: SME specialized in creating digital educational content. (Slovenia)
  • Smart Institute: NGO dedicated to technology-driven education and research. (Slovenia)
  • Associazione InCo: Non-profit organization promoting international youth exchanges. (Italy)
  • Kauno kolegija Higher Education Institution (KK): Higher education institution. (Lithuania)
  • Fundación XUL: Foundation dedicated to social and environmental sustainability. (Spain)

Main objectives:

  • Identify the needs and challenges related to glossophobia in students aged 12 to 16.
  • Develop a Digital Best Practices Handbook to help teachers support their students in overcoming the fear of public speaking.
  • Create a SPEAK Training Program for teachers, providing them with the necessary tools and strategies to address glossophobia in the classroom.
  • Establish a SPEAK Open Educational Resources Platform for students, with video tutorials and interactive tools to help them overcome glossophobia and improve their communication skills.
  • Disseminate the project results through various channels, including a website, social media, newsletters, local multiplier events, and a final conference.

Key expected results:

  • Digital Best Practices Handbook: Will compile 35 best practices for overcoming glossophobia in the classroom, focusing on non-formal activities that teachers can easily implement.
  • SPEAK Training Program: Will provide teachers with comprehensive training on glossophobia, including strategies for effective communication, collaborative learning approaches, and assessment tools.
  • SPEAK OER Platform: Will offer students self-guided resources, video tutorials, and interactive tools tailored to their learning preferences.

The SpeakEase project offers an innovative and holistic approach to addressing glossophobia in young people, with a strong focus on teacher training and the creation of engaging digital resources for students. The solid partnership, well-defined methodology, and commitment to sustainability ensure that the project will have a lasting impact on the educational community.