We are pleased to share an important milestone within the DISCOVER YOURSELF project. The partnership has successfully completed the Desk Research, marking a key step in building the foundation for upcoming project activities.

The research focuses on the role of positive emotions, resonance, and (digital) storytelling in vocational education and training (VET), particularly in inclusive contexts and when working with vulnerable groups. It combines theoretical insights and practical approaches to better understand how learning environments can support not only skills development, but also well-being, identity, and participation.

The findings highlight that learning is most effective when it goes beyond technical knowledge and includes emotional and relational dimensions. Positive emotions such as curiosity, hope, and engagement help learners expand their capacities and build long-term personal and social resources. At the same time, storytelling – whether verbal, visual, or digital – plays a key role in helping individuals make sense of their experiences, express their identity, and connect with others.

The research also addresses current societal challenges, such as increasing pressure, speed, and disconnection, and introduces the concept of resonance – a meaningful connection between individuals and their environment – as a crucial element in learning processes.

Based on these insights, the report proposes an integrated educational framework that combines:

· positive emotions as a driver of engagement and resilience

· storytelling as a tool for identity-building and reflection

· resonance as a basis for meaningful learning relationships

· creative and aesthetic experiences that foster focus and motivation

· innovative pedagogical approaches such as digital storytelling and experiential learning models

In addition to the theoretical framework, the research includes a collection of good practices from partner countries, demonstrating how these concepts can be applied in real educational settings. These practices show how storytelling and creative approaches can support inclusion, strengthen confidence, and encourage active participation among learners.

At the moment, the full document is being translated into all partner languages to ensure accessibility across the consortium. Once completed, the results will be shared more widely through the project platform.

In parallel, the project has launched its survey phase, which will further enrich the research with field-based insights.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue developing innovative tools and methodologies to support inclusive, creative, and meaningful learning experiences across Europe.