The Integration Foundation has developed the online course The Informed Volunteer as a Supporter of Integration, designed as a basic training course for volunteers active in the field of integration as well as for anyone interested in the field. The course is free of charge and available on the Digiriigi Akadeemia learning platform. It helps volunteers work in an informed, culturally sensitive and sustainable way in a multicultural environment.
The online course is intended for adults who have a command of Estonian and wish to contribute as volunteers in the field of integration. It is open to current and prospective volunteers of the Integration Foundation, volunteers from other organisations, and professionals working in the field, such as local government officials.
The course provides participants with a clear and practical understanding of integration and the role of volunteers in supporting it. It also helps develop culturally sensitive communication skills, deepen understanding of multicultural environments, and learn how to support others without risking burnout. The course focuses not only on knowledge, but also on attitudes, self-awareness and the long-term sustainability of volunteering.
The online course consists of three modules. The first module, Introduction to Integration, focuses on what integration means, how people adapt to a new society, and the role of volunteers in supporting this process. The second module, Cultural Sensitivity and Communication, explores how culture shapes the way we think, interpret situations and behave, and helps participants recognise and respond to cultural differences with awareness and respect. The third module, The Role of a Volunteer and Self-Care, focuses on the responsibilities and boundaries of a volunteer, self-care, and preventing burnout.
The learning materials are designed to be engaging and practical. The course includes video lessons, reading materials, short quizzes, reflection questions and practical exercises that support independent learning and help participants apply what they have learned to real-life situations. The course takes approximately six hours to complete, on average, but participants can study at their own time and pace. It is recommended to complete the modules in sequence, as together they provide a comprehensive understanding of the topic. However, the course also allows for a flexible learning experience.
Upon completing the course, participants will have a better understanding of integration processes and key migration-related concepts. They will be able to recognise cultural differences and respond to different situations more thoughtfully. Participants will also gain greater awareness of their own attitudes and ways of interpreting situations, understand the role, responsibilities and boundaries of a volunteer, and learn how to apply self-care principles to maintain their mental well-being.
The knowledge and skills gained during the course can be applied in many ways – as a volunteer in the activities of the Integration Foundation, in other organisations working in the field of integration, in professional life, and in everyday communication in a multicultural environment. The course concludes with a final test, and participants who successfully complete it receive a certificate of completion.
Participant feedback received so far has been largely positive. Participants have particularly appreciated the course’s rich content, practical approach and engaging structure. They have also valued the fact that the course not only provides knowledge but also encourages reflection and supports further independent learning.
The online course has been developed to support informed and sustainable volunteering in the field of integration. A pilot phase for engaging volunteers is planned to begin in the autumn. Following the pilot phase, the aim is to involve course participants more actively in volunteer activities, offer additional training and development opportunities, and strengthen the volunteer community and collaboration among volunteers.
The online course The Informed Volunteer as a Supporter of Integration is an important step towards ensuring that volunteers supporting integration have a solid knowledge base, practical skills, and an understanding of the importance of taking care of their own well-being.
To access the course, you need to create an account and sign in.
Once signed in, the course is available here: https://digiriigiakadeemia.ee/course/view.php?id=340
The programme is co-financed by Switzerland to reduce economic and social disparities within the European Union.
