Raising the awareness and increasing the competences of Adult learners on Microbiome applications
▶Summary
The project aimed to enhance the competences of adult professionals in the biomedical sector, with a specific focus on microbiota applications. It sought to create accessible, non-formal learning ...
▶Objectives
The project aimed to enhance the competences of adult professionals in the biomedical sector, with a specific focus on microbiota applications. It sought to create accessible, non-formal learning opportunities that respond to the sector’s evolving needs and support the professional development of adults already active or seeking employment in healthcare. By conducting targeted research, the project aimed to generate updated knowledge on microbiota applications and translate it into educational content aligned with industry demands. Its objectives also included increasing awareness of microbiome-related innovations, fostering the uptake of adult education, and promoting STEM competences. Ultimately, the project aimed to bridge the gap between academic research, industry expectations, and adult learners’ skills, to ensure a sustainable learning ecosystem capable of supporting future developments in preventive and personalised medicine.
▶Activities
The project implemented six activities designed to support its educational and awareness-raising goals. It began with desk research on the applications of microbiota in various biomedical fields, establishing a knowledge base to guide the development of learning materials. Building on this, a non-formal educational module was created to upskill adult learners in the healthcare sector. Dissemination and public engagement were key components, achieved through participation in the European Researchers’ Night 2024 via exhibitions in Valletta (MT) and Siena (IT). Two transnational study visits were organised—one to the University of Siena for Maltese participants, and one to The BioArte in Malta for Italian participants—to test and validate the training content in real-life contexts. These activities fostered collaboration among partners, enabled direct engagement with the target group, and supported the exchange of best practices. The project also integrated digital tools and AI applications, aligning with STEM and digital transformation priorities.
▶Impact
The project delivered a set of tangible outputs aligned with its objectives. A comprehensive desk research report (EMERGING AND FEASIBLE MEDICAL APPLICATIONS OF THE HUMAN MICROBIOTA) was produced, analysing current and emerging applications of microbiota in the biomedical field. This informed the creation of a structured non-formal educational module tailored to adult learners in the healthcare sector (Chronic Constipation & Diarrhea; Constipation; Estrobolome Role; Microbiome and clinical implication; Microbiome in osteopathy; Gut and Vaginal Microbiota; Microbiom Insuline Resistance; Sports, Microbiome and Nut; Autism; Microbiome-immune-brain axis) The module was tested and validated during two transnational study visits involving participants from Malta and Italy, enhancing its relevance and applicability. Public awareness was raised through the organisation of exhibition booths at the European Researchers’ Night 2024 in Valletta and Siena, reaching diverse audiences and promoting the role of microbiota in health. Additionally, the project fostered increased collaboration between academia and industry, and strengthened the capacity of the partner organisations to deliver targeted, innovative training.