How Adults Can Find the Courage to Step into the World of Digital Skills and Technology
“The hardest part is encouraging people to overcome their fear of the unknown and take the first step,” says Vēsma Cielava, Head of the “Tomega” Training Centre, describing her mission to educate adults and teachers about new educational technologies and help them develop their digital skills. Founded six years ago, the centre has in recent years focused increasingly on teacher training, with particular emphasis on 3D printing and scanning, laser engraving and cutting, robotics, and the use of interactive displays.
SIA “Tomega” is one of the training providers offering adults opportunities to acquire new skills and knowledge in line with labour market requirements as part of the State Education Development Agency (VIAA) project “Support for Adult Education Based on Individual Adult Needs.” Most of the participants in the centre’s programmes are teachers, particularly those working in technology-related fields, where digital skills are becoming increasingly important in their professional lives.
According to Vēsma Cielava, the centre’s philosophy is to provide training using equipment that is actually used in educational institutions, thereby ensuring that participants acquire practical and applicable knowledge. In 2025 alone, seven professional competence development courses were delivered, involving more than 150 teachers from across Latvia. The centre also organised seven Educational Technology EXPO events, attended by more than 250 teachers.
During the training sessions, teachers learn simple and intuitive software that can be used both for 3D modelling and for creating designs for laser technologies. Particularly important is the choice of solutions that require few resources and are often free of charge, making it easier for teachers to integrate the skills they acquire into their everyday work.
It turns out that the fear of trying is one of the biggest challenges adults face when starting to learn something new. “What if I press something wrong?” is a question that often comes up during training. That is why “Tomega’s” approach is based on encouragement and hands-on learning. Participants are encouraged to try things themselves, make mistakes and learn in the process. The training centre also provides continued support through consultations, video calls, communication and in-person assistance. This ongoing support creates a sense of security and helps participants overcome their initial uncertainty.
“What makes me happiest is seeing how teachers’ attitudes towards technology change during the training – how anxiety and caution are replaced by interest and enthusiasm, a desire to explore further, and the realisation that learning to use digital tools can open up an exciting new world,” says Vēsma Cielava.
As a result of the training, it is not only participants’ skills that improve and change, but also their mindset. People begin to see technology as an opportunity rather than a problem, and after their first attempts, they often want to learn more – they are hooked.
How does the training influence participants’ professional development or career opportunities?
“It all depends on the individual. Each participant takes away the knowledge and skills that they find useful. A good example is our teacher training courses, where we work with large groups of participants with different levels of experience but a shared interest in new technologies. Throughout the day, they gradually explore the possibilities of 3D printing, try out 3D scanning and laser technologies. Although many initially think that these technologies are mainly relevant to technology or computer science lessons, by the end of the course their perspective has broadened considerably. We show how easily these technologies can be integrated into different subjects – from physics and engineering to art. For some participants, our courses have also provided inspiration for extracurricular activities, turning their initial curiosity into real ideas they can implement in their work. Others use their newly acquired skills to develop a hobby or business, starting to make decorations, souvenirs, toys or other products that are in demand at local craft and home-producer markets,” explains Vēsma Cielava.
Vēsma Cielava’s main advice is not to be afraid and simply give it a try. The first step is often the beginning of significant change.
The project “Support for Adult Education Based on Individual Adult Needs” is co-financed by the European Social Fund and aims to encourage adults to participate in education and develop their skills in line with labour market requirements. The project provides learning opportunities for both adults and teachers, supporting the development of their professional competences. More information about the project is available on the State Education Development Agency (VIAA) website.
Story produced with the support of EU funds.
