The energy at the Centro Studi Città di Foligno has been truly incredible. From April 13th to 18th, Foligno became a world capital for the Italian language. During this week, we welcomed 40 teachers and professionals from all over the globe. Furthermore, it was a success that goes far beyond the numbers. This is because it created a real network of people sharing the same passion.

Real Training, Practical Tools

To begin with, we avoided abstract lectures and theory. Instead, it was a week of hands-on work. Specifically, we explored AI in the classroom and storytelling. We also practiced engaging strategies for teaching grammar and vocabulary. The sessions were led by top experts who brought research and experience to the table:

  • Carlo Guastalla (Bacole)

  • Paolo Torresan (Universidade Federal Fluminense – Brazil)

  • Letizia Cinganotto (University for Foreigners of Perugia)

  • Giorgio Massei & Sara Porreca (ALMA Edizioni)

  • Roberto Tartaglione (Scud’It – Scuole Licet)

  • Elisa Bassetti (Artelingua Language Courses)

  • Guglielmo Tini (Liceo Classico F. Frezzi)

 

Beyond the Classroom

In addition, the training merged perfectly with the local culture. In fact, Umbria became our true classroom. We didn’t just stay indoors.

  • For instance, we went from discussing AI to exploring the streets of Foligno. We also visited the Diocesan Museum during a guided tour.

  • Moreover, we enjoyed an EVO oil tasting to discover the “Green Heart of Italy”. We were also moved by the Dante video mapping at Palazzo Trinci.

  • Similarly, visiting the Printing Museum gave new meaning to our work. There, we saw where the first edition of the Divine Comedy was printed in 1472.

  • Finally, we took part in the Festa di Scienza e di Filosofia. We brought Dante into a modern context and ended the week with a tour of Spoleto.

 

In conclusion, the journey was intense, inspiring, and rewarding. As a result, we are heading home with practical tools for our classrooms. We also leave with a renewed conviction: when Italian is taught with creativity, it has an extraordinary power.