I. Project Summary and Participant Information

Within the scope of the Erasmus+ program, participation was ensured in the training course “Razor 2025: Developing Critical Thinking Skills,” held on the island of Veli Iž, Croatia, between 3–11 October 2025 and organised by Udruga Prizma. The participants representing the IDEIS Foundation were:

● Hamide Refia Öz

● Elif Akbulut

● Büşra Emine Akbulut

II. Main Objective and Content of the Training

The main objective of the training was to strengthen youth workers’ critical thinking skills and their capacity to combat disinformation, prejudice, and manipulation. The programme focused on sharing practical, hands-on methods that promote active citizenship, bringing together participants from eight different countries.

III. Methods Applied and Learning Outcomes

The training was conducted using non-formal education methods. Key activities supporting the learning processes included:

● Logical Fallacies and Cognitive Bias Analysis: Simulations and workshops aimed at enhancing analytical thinking and the ability to identify faulty reasoning.

●Conspiracy Theory Laboratory: Exploratory exercises designed to understand the structural causes, creation, and dissemination mechanisms of disinformation.

● Intercultural Dialogue and Discussion: Role plays and debate platforms to develop constructive and respectful communication across cultural contexts.

● Practical Tools and Application: Techniques such as the Percipio Game and Open Space sessions provided practical methods for integrating new learning into the foundation’s activities.

IV. Key Competencies Acquired

Throughout the training, the Youthpass key competencies developed were primarily in the following areas:

● Digital Competence: Ability to recognise manipulation and propaganda techniques in digital environments.

●Civic Competence: Strengthening responsibility and constructive dialogue supporting social participation.

● Learning to Learn: Managing personal biases and effectively using feedback mechanisms for continuous development.

● Personal and Social Competence: Increasing self-confidence and communication skills through active interaction in an international environment.

V. Tangible Outputs and Recommendations for the Foundation

1. Guidebook: The resource “Critical Thinking Unlocked – Razor 2025,” summarizing the training content and presenting practical tools, has been made available for our foundation. Its use in local training sessions is recommended.

2. International Partnerships: Communication networks were established with partner organisations, particularly from Poland, Spain, and the Netherlands. These networks are expected to support new collaboration projects such as Erasmus+ KA210.

3. Method Integration: The applied methods, especially Logical Fallacy Analysis, are planned to be integrated into IDEIS youth programmes and disseminated further.

VI. Personal Observations and Reflections: A Manifesto of Transformation

At the beginning of this experience, we thought we were simply attending a training—yet as the IDEIS team, we underwent a true transformation. The accommodation and the serenity of Veli Iž Island felt revitalising, almost clearing away all the noise in our minds. Every detail of the organisation was meticulously planned, making us feel genuinely valued. The warmth of participants from other countries and the local community immediately embraced us. The excursions outside the training context strengthened our bonds and refreshed our spirits. We learned so much more than what was visible at first glance.

The programme’s greatest success was that it managed to present a profound topic like Critical Thinking without making it dull. Through various games and interactive methods, we both enjoyed ourselves and internalised the knowledge. This approach gave us an entirely new perspective on how enjoyable learning can be. Open Space workshops, in particular, broadened our minds and showed how enriching it is to view each topic from different angles.

This project provided not only knowledge but also the determination, strategic planning ability, and confidence needed to overcome challenges in our lives. As IDEIS, we firmly believe that with the strength of this experience, we will approach every future project with even greater enthusiasm and success.