Follow Up Armenia

🇦🇲 Follow-Up Activity in Armenia – MediaMind Project

As part of the dissemination phase of the Erasmus+ Training Course "MEDIA MIND", a dynamic 3-day workshop was organized in Yerevan, Armenia, from April 26–28, 2025, led by Armenian participants of the project. The workshop aimed to deepen the understanding of media literacy, critical thinking, and digital safety among Armenian youth workers, based on the tools and knowledge gained during the TC in Cyprus. With over 100 applications received and 60 experienced youth workers selected, the event combined theoretical sessions, practical tools, and a high-level study visit to the Parliament of Armenia, featuring a presentation and Q&A session with MP Lilit Minasyan. The workshop was highly praised by participants, with 100% reporting it as useful and applicable to their work. This impactful follow-up demonstrated the power of peer-led learning and the local relevance of the MEDIA MIND mission.

3-DAY WORKSHOP
April 26-28
Follow up activity in the framework of Erasmus+ TC "MediaMind"


Agenda

Day 1:Theory
Introduction, presentation of MediaMind project and initiative
"Critical thinking" guest speaker from parliament
"Digital hygiene and social engineering" Narek Jilavyan (Participant of PDA: cybersecurity lecturer from American University of Armenia )

Day 2: Practical knowledge
"The importance of integrating practical games in youth work" Goharik Grigoryan(participant of PDA, founder of Professional orientation center NGO)
"Practical games. Toolkit" (Karine Kocharyan, participant of PDA, youth worker parliamentary assistant)
"Introduction to Erasmus+: Overview, Participation Opportunities. Personal experience" (Hrachya Grigoryan, PDA participant, innovative start-up founder, youth worker in TUMO)

Day 3: Study visit to the Parliament of Armenia
Meeting with Member of Parliament Lilit Minasyan
Presentation on media literacy prepared by the MP, Q/A on the topic of the PDA and youth work in Armenia

REPORT

From April 26 to 28, a comprehensive three-day workshop was organized by the participants of the Training Course (TC) as part of the dissemination efforts. An open call for participation was shared via social media, targeting youth workers across Armenia. Within just four days, 102 applications were received, and 60 participants were selected based on their proven experience in youth work to ensure targeted and effective dissemination. The sessions were conducted in Armenian and were based on the agenda and knowledge gained during the TC in Cyprus. PDA participants led the workshops, shared insights from the MediaMind , and reflected on their personal experiences. Key topics on Day 1 included critical thinking, social engineering: types (scams, phishing etc.), aims. Participants were introduced to practical steps for evaluating news online and were provided with fact-checking tools to strengthen digital literacy.

Day 2 focused on practical tools in youth work. Sessions emphasized the value of using educational games to enhance learning and engagement. A comprehensive toolkit of games was presented, offering hands-on methods for integrating these tools into youth programs. The day concluded with a session on Erasmus+, offering an overview of the program, guidance on participation, and personal experience from Cyprus.

On Day 3, participants visited the Parliament of Armenia. They engaged in a discussion with MP Lilit Minasyan, who shared a presentation on media literacy. The visit concluded with an interactive Q&A session, focusing on the topic of media literacy and role of youth workers in Armenia.

The training fostered knowledge-sharing, networking, and a deeper understanding of media literacy, equipping them with practical tools to apply in their work with young people. After 3 day workshop participants of the followup activity received evaluation forms.. Based on the review 100% of participants mentioned that the workshop was highly useful and informative for their work as youth workers.

Online dissemination from the participants 

Karine Kocharyan

Evaluation Paragraphs from participants 

Narek Jilavyan

From March 22–30, I had the chance to be part of the Erasmus+ "MediaMind" training course in Pissouri, Cyprus—and it became one of the most enriching experiences I've had. The program offered a perfect balance between deep learning, creativity, and connection.

One of the most useful sessions for me was the fake news creation and theater activity. By actually creating and performing misinformation, I understood how emotions are manipulated and how easily fake news can appear real. It was eye-opening and made me more cautious about what I consume and share online.

I also learned a lot from the "bad product challenge." It pushed me to think outside the box and reminded me that with creativity, even the worst ideas can be reshaped into something valuable. The media biography timeline helped me reflect on how my media consumption shaped who I am today—it made me more aware of the influence media has on our beliefs and behavior.

Drawing a "safe space" on beach stones was a quiet but powerful moment for me. It gave me space to reflect on digital wellbeing and emotional safety.

Most of all, I appreciated meeting people from different cultures. These connections, along with the stories, laughs, and teamwork, made the learning feel even more meaningful. I left with new tools, new friendships, and a deeper motivation to support others in thinking critically about media.
Huge thanks to the European Union, ACPELIA as well as our sending NGO from Armenia, our great trainers Boghos and Erma for making this happen.

Hrachya Grigoryan

From the very first day, I felt a mix of curiosity and excitement. Being surrounded by people from so many cultures, languages, and life stories, I sensed immediately that this experience was going to be more than just a training—it was going to be transformative. There was an unspoken energy in the air, like we all knew we were about to grow in ways we hadn't expected.

Each activity slowly peeled away the surface. We weren't just learning about media—we were learning about ourselves and each other. When we created our media biographies, I had a moment I'll never forget. Looking back on my life through the lens of media, I suddenly saw patterns I hadn't noticed before—how cartoons, movies, social media posts had shaped the way I view myself and the world. It was like seeing my own story from a new angle, and it struck me deeply.

The fake news creation workshop was another powerful moment. It was playful, even funny at first, but it left a serious mark. It made me feel just how easily emotions—especially fear, anger, and sympathy—can be manipulated. It wasn't just about facts anymore; it was about trust, vulnerability, and responsibility.

Some sessions made me laugh, others made me pause in silence. But all of them made me feel more awake—more human. I left that week not just with knowledge, but with a sense of clarity, belonging, and empowerment. That's what Erasmus+ gave me: a space to feel, to grow, and to truly connect.

Karine Kocharyan

Erasmus+ "MediaMind" training course turned out to be one of the most meaningful learning experiences I've ever had.

The week was dedicated to exploring media literacy, digital safety, and critical thinking through creative and engaging methods. What stood out to me was how the program connected these complex topics to our real lives as youth workers. Whether we were analyzing fake news, reflecting on body image and media standards, or discussing online privacy, each session helped me see how deeply media shapes the way we think, feel, and act.

What made this experience even more special was connecting with inspiring participants from Armenia, Georgia, Jordan, Poland, Cyprus, Greece, Germany, Romania, and Moldova — all united by a shared commitment to fostering a more media-conscious society. Being in a diverse group of participants from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds gave every discussion more depth.

I left Cyprus not just with new skills and ideas, but with lasting connections and a renewed passion for helping young people become more conscious, critical, and creative media users.

Goharik Grigoryan

Participating in the Erasmus+ MediaMind training course in Pissouri, Cyprus, from March 22 to 30 was an incredibly enriching experience. The program was thoughtfully designed and addressed highly relevant themes such as media literacy, critical thinking, and digital security — all of which are becoming increasingly vital in youth work. One of the strongest aspects of the training was its hands-on approach: simulation activities, case studies, and group discussions helped us engage deeply with the material and reflect on how to apply it in real-life educational settings. The sessions on cognitive bias, media ownership, and data privacy were particularly eye-opening and immediately applicable to my context, especially in working with vulnerable youth in transitional societies.

The intercultural exchange was another major highlight. Collaborating with participants from across Europe and neighboring regions offered diverse perspectives and sparked valuable conversations about common challenges and solutions. I especially appreciated the opportunity to explore how media literacy can contribute to peacebuilding and democratic engagement. The setting in Cyprus, with its complex history, added another layer of insight that enriched the overall experience.

I return home with concrete tools, new partnerships, and a strong sense of inspiration. Thank you to the organizing team for creating such a timely and impactful learning space.

Logo Design

Creating a logo for "MediaMind: Critical thinking in media literacy development" requires blending the key elements of media literacy, critical thinking, digital security, and youth empowerment. Here's a step-by-step approach to design the logo:

  1. Conceptual Elements:

    • Media Literacy & Digital Security: Symbols like a shield, book, or magnifying glass.
    • Critical Thinking: Brain or light bulb.
    • Youth Empowerment: Abstract figures or symbols representing growth and learning.
    • Connectivity and Information Flow: Network lines or digital icons.

  2. Color Scheme:

    • Blue: Represents trust, security, and intelligence.
    • Green: Symbolizes growth, learning, and safety.
    • White: For clarity and simplicity.

  3. Typography:

    • Modern and clean fonts to represent clarity and forward-thinking.

Now, let's create a logo sketch using these elements and then refine it for a final version.

Logo Sketch

The logo will include:

  • A shield with a brain icon inside to symbolize protection through critical thinking.
  • Network lines across the shield to represent the digital world and connectivity.
  • Abstract figures around the shield to depict youth empowerment and collaboration.
  • The project title "MediaMind" prominently displayed with "Critical thinking in media literacy development" as a tagline.

Here is the conceptual design for the "MediaMind" logo:

  • Shield: Represents protection through media literacy.
  • Brain Network: Simplified as interconnected nodes to symbolize critical thinking and information processing.
  • Network Lines: Show connectivity and the digital environment.
  • Abstract Figures: Depict youth empowerment and collaboration.
  • Title and Subtitle: "MediaMind" with the tagline "Critical thinking in media literacy development."

The design uses blue for trust and security, green for growth and learning, and white for clarity and simplicity. If you need further refinements or a different style, please let me know! ​

Expected Results

In summary, ""MediaMind" stands as a testament to the transformative power of digital literacy in addressing societal challenges, creating a lasting impact on the lives of the participating youth and their communities.

Expected results.

The project aims to enhance media literacy, foster critical thinking, and bolster digital security among youth workers. Recognizing the dual existence of individuals in both the physical and informational realms, the project addresses the opportunities and challenges presented by modern media, including the Internet and social networks.

The digital environment, though rich in possibilities for self-education, creativity, communication, and professional activities, is also fraught with risks, dangers, and its own set of rules. Media literacy is positioned as a crucial skill, comparable to written and computer literacy, to safeguard individuals from the adverse effects of harmful content such as media viruses and disinformation, as well as manipulation of consciousness.

The foundation of "mental immunity" is identified as critical thinking and media literacy, acting as a protective shield against information viruses and guiding individuals in navigating the media sphere responsibly. The metaphorical "umbrella" is introduced as a tool containing the knowledge and skills necessary for modern individuals, including critical thinking, structural and structureless management, immunity to media manipulation, information flow management, media literacy, and media hygiene.

The training course is designed to equip participants with the expertise to distinguish between harmful and useful information, combat the propagation of negative habits, understand the basics of self-regulation, explore external factors influencing worldview, and empower them to create their own information platforms for exchange.

Ultimately, the project seeks to empower individuals to navigate the information space effectively, fostering resilience against harmful content and manipulation while promoting positive engagement with media platforms.

Summary of the project

Project Name KA153YOU: "MediaMind: Critical thinking in media literacy development", MediaMind

Agreement No: 2024-1-CY01-KA153-YOU-000214981Duration: From 1/07/2024 till 30/06/2025, 12 months

Activity: 22 to 30 of March 2025, PDA at Hylatio Tourist Village (www.hylatio.com.cy), Pissouri, Limassol, Cyprus for 36 youthworkers (4 youthworkers from each organization, 9 organisations) and 4 facilitators in activities with Non Formal Educational for self improvement and well-being of youngsters.

Accomodation: Hylatio Tourist Village (www.hylatio.com.cy), Pissouri, Limassol, Cyprus

Applicant Organisation: Active Cypriot Programs and European Learning Into Acceptance, ACPELIA, email: acpeliacy@gmail.com

Coordinators: Nikolas Nikolaou (nicckolas44@gmail.com), Evelina Ablaeva (evelina232305@gmail.com)

Trainers: Evelina Ablaeva, Erma Georgiou, Boghos Avetikian

Topics: Critical Thinking, Fake News, Media literacy, cyber security. 

Objectives

Enhance Media Literacy Skills:

  • Develop participants' ability to navigate and comprehend various forms of media content.

  • Equip individuals with the skills to critically assess information accuracy and reliability.

Promote Critical Thinking:

  • Instill critical thinking algorithms among participants.
  • Foster the ability to analyze and evaluate information independently.

Strengthen Digital Security:

    • Provide practical knowledge on digital security measures, including safe online practices.
    • Raise awareness about potential risks and threats in the digital environment.

Build Mental Immunity:

    • Establish critical thinking and media literacy as the foundation for "mental immunity."
    • Help participants recognize and resist manipulation and misinformation in the media.

Combat Harmful Content and Propaganda:

    • Educate participants on identifying and countering harmful content and propaganda.
    • Develop strategies to combat the spread of negative habits through media platforms.

Facilitate Self-Regulation:

    • Teach the basics of self-regulation to empower individuals in managing their media consumption.
    • Promote responsible and mindful engagement with digital platforms.

Examine External Factors Affecting Worldview:

    • Explore the external factors that can influence individuals' perspectives and worldviews.
    • Encourage participants to critically evaluate the sources and motivations behind information.

Empower Information Exchange Platforms:

    • Guide participants in creating their own information platforms for responsible information exchange.
    • Provide tools and knowledge to contribute positively to the media sphere.

Cultivate Comprehensive Media Hygiene:

    • Integrate media hygiene practices, emphasizing responsible media consumption and interaction.
    • Equip participants with tools to maintain a healthy and balanced relationship with media.

Measure Impact and Effectiveness:

    • Establish metrics to assess the impact of the training course on participants.
    • Continuously evaluate and refine the program based on feedback and outcomes.

These objectives collectively aim to empower youth workers with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the complex landscape of modern media, fostering a resilient and critically engaged approach to information consumption and dissemination.

Main Idea of the Project 

This project is aimed at improving the level of media literacy, developing critical thinking, and improving the digital security of youth workers. People live not only in the physical world, but also in the world of information. Modern media (Internet, social networks) provides great opportunities in terms of self-education, creativity, communication, and professional activity. But at the same time, this environment is, to put it mildly, unsafe, it has its own laws, rules, its own dangers and risks, its own predators and its own victims. Media literacy is an essential requirement for a modern person, along with the already familiar written and computer literacy, since in the context of the widespread spread of the Internet, only media literacy can protect a person from the negative effects of harmful content (media viruses, disinformation) and manipulation of consciousness. If your body is exposed to a virus or disease in everyday life, then the human psyche is being attacked in the information space.

Critical thinking and Media Literacy are the basis of "mental immunity", which protects against information viruses and helps to interact correctly with the media sphere. You can learn to distinguish harmful information from useful information and protect your psyche with the help of an "umbrella", which contains the knowledge and skills necessary for a modern person: critical thinking, structural and structureless management, immunity to media manipulation, information flow management, media literacy and media hygiene. It is these knowledge and skills that participants will be able to master as part of the training course.

As part of the training course, participants will learn about critical thinking algorithms, learn how to distinguish useful content from harmful one, how to combat the propaganda of bad habits, learn the basics of self-regulation, study external factors affecting the worldview, and create their own information platforms for information exchange.

Relevance to Erasmus + goals is evident, as the project enhances key competencies and skills of young people, fosters intercultural dialogue, promotes active citizenship, increases learning mobility opportunities, encourages enhanced cooperation, and reflects on activism as a powerful democratic practice for young change-makers.

 "MediaMind: Critical thinking in media literacy development" is more than a project; it is a journey towards empowerment, understanding, and unity.

Monthly timetable of the program

Executive Summary:

"MediaMind: Critical thinking in media literacy development" project is aimed at improving the level of media literacy, developing critical thinking, and improving the digital security of youth workers. With a focus on combating discrimination, intolerance, and violence, the project utilizes dynamic and creative workshops, including art, dance, and forum-theater. The initiative seeks to empower participants, foster a sense of European identity, promote social participation to address climate change, and instill discrimination prevention through artistic activities.

Objectives:

The project aims to:

  • To provide learning opportunities in a field of media literacy and critical thinking.
  • To develop professional skills of youth workers in a field of digital learning.
  • To build a community of youth workers that can spread the project's result among their local communities.
  • To create and international digital platforms for implementation of learning outcomes.

Methodology:

As part of the training course, participants will learn about critical thinking algorithms, learn how to distinguish useful content from harmful one, how to combat the propaganda of bad habits, learn the basics of self-regulation, study external factors affecting the worldview, and create their own information platforms for information exchange.

Outcomes:

The result of the project will be developed international digital projects that will become a platform for youth workers to disseminate and exchange information both locally and globally. These platforms will combine the best knowledge and practices gained by the participants during the project.

Relevance to Erasmus+ Goals:

The project aligns with Erasmus+ goals by:

  • Enhancing key competencies and skills of young people.
  • Fostering intercultural dialogue.
  • Promoting active citizenship.
  • Increasing learning mobility opportunities.
  • Encouraging enhanced cooperation.
  • Reflecting on activism as a powerful democratic practice for young change-makers.

Conclusion:

"MediaMind: Critical thinking in media literacy development" is a project that will help young people feel more confident in the information space and not become a victim of fake news and propaganda through teaching the basics of media literacy and critical thinking.

Recommendations:

Based on the success of this project, it is recommended to continue implementing similar initiatives that leverage creative arts for youth empowerment and inclusion. Additionally, documenting and sharing the methodologies and outcomes will contribute to the broader field of youth development and Erasmus+ initiatives.

Program of the PDA MEDIAMIND 

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