As the Erasmus+ co-funded project 'Inclusive Design Hub' (Pr. No: 2023-1-DE02-KA210-VET-000124768) comes to a close, we reflect on the significant and enduring impact it has had on our target audience. This initiative has driven notable growth and learning, creating a lasting legacy within our community.
A key factor in the project's success is the contribution of students from XU Exponential University in Potsdam. These students volunteered their time and expertise to produce engaging videos that promote the goals of the Inclusive Design Hub and uphold European values. Their work exemplifies the spirit of collaboration and innovation central to this project.
In this article, we are pleased to introduce two outstanding students: Lara Lüdeke and Johanna Dahlhues. They are enrolled in the 'Digital Marketing and Social Media' B.Sc. program. Both students have been instrumental in creating valuable video content designed to assist freelancers and newcomers across Europe.
Together, these students share their insights into the workflow and creative process behind producing these valuable resources. Their dedication underscores the importance of involving young talent in initiatives that foster learning and inclusivity.
Though the 'Inclusive Design Hub' project is concluding, the resources and inspiration it has provided will continue to support and empower freelancers and newcomers across Europe. We appreciate the contributions of Lara and Johanna and look forward to seeing how their work will inspire others in the future.
Q1: What inspired you to create such an engaging video for the Erasmus+ co-funded project 'Inclusive Design Hub'? Can you share some of the creative processes behind it?
Lara Lüdeke (LL): For me, creating the video was inspired by my general interest in freelancing. I could see myself as one in the future, and I know that there are many videos out there informing about what skills to sell, how to find customers etc. But not many engaging videos talking about the laws and regulations in Europe even though every freelancer needs to deal with them. Therefore, by addressing the topic of copyright we aim to fill this gap and help new freelancers be on the safe side by informing them with an easy and engaging short video.
Johanna Dahlhues (JD): With the information in hand, we developed a storyboard to outline the video's structure. This included deciding on the sequence of topics, the visual elements to accompany each section, and how to present the information in a logical and engaging manner. The final version of the video underwent a thorough review to ensure accuracy and quality. We also checked for accessibility, adding subtitles and ensuring the video met inclusive design standards.
Q2: How did you ensure the video's content was inclusive and accessible to a diverse audience? What specific elements did you incorporate to achieve this?
Lara Lüdeke (LL): By using a simple language and including subtitles, we ensured an easy understanding of the video's content, especially for people who don´t speak English well or are not able to listen to the sound. Besides, by highlighting important keywords, viewers can easily understand the video's message.
Johanna Dahlhues (JD): We used straightforward, jargon-free language throughout the script to ensure the information was easily understandable by viewers with varying levels of familiarity with legal concepts.
Q3: What challenges did you face during the production of the video, and how did you overcome them? Were there any particular moments that stood out to you?
Lara Lüdeke (LL): One particularly difficult challenge was writing the script for the video. Since copyright is a highly complex topic, we needed to firstly understand it ourselves, then needed to shorten it to three key learnings and lastly needed to simplify the language and explain the regulations in easy-to-understand wording. This presented a challenge at first, but after diving deep into the topic of copyright, we managed to overcome the challenge successfully.
Johanna Dahlhues (JD): Another challenge was to make the video as appealing as possible. To capture and maintain the audience's attention, we used a lot of quick cuts. We also made sure that the script was lively and entertaining and not too dry or formal. Interactive components, such as questions and thought provoking prompts, were included to encourage audience participation.
Q4: How do you hope your video will impact viewers and contribute to the goals of the 'Inclusive Design Hub' project? What message do you want to convey through your work?
Lara Lüdeke (LL): I hope the video takes away the fear of new freelancers facing regulations that might seem very complicated at first and they avoid dealing with. Therefore, the video encourages them to be more aware of their rights and use it to their benefit.
Johanna Dahlhues (JD): When creating the video, the desire to demystify the legal provisions related to freelancing and make them accessible and understandable for all viewers, especially those new to the field, was paramount. Our primary goal is to provide clear, concise information that enables freelancers to confidently navigate their legal obligations.
*Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
