Immersion training with working artisans and farmers represents a unique opportunity to learn in a hands-on, immersive way. This pedagogical approach has numerous advantages: it combines practical application with theory for better assimilation, prioritizes interaction with experienced professionals, and ultimately, it’s a highly enriching human experience.
It is by practicing that we become autonomous.
Just look at children: there’s nothing like getting your hands dirty, trying, failing, and trying again to acquire skills.
Many project leaders learn better by combining practical experience with theory and this is even more true for truly mastering a manual trade: theory is an excellent starting point, but nothing beats actual practice, the repeated execution of the gesture. Learning by doing, but also learning by watching the professional do it and imitating him, are recognized learning methods. The acquisition of the skills necessary for the trade is faster and more effective by alternating theory and practice: putting it into practice allows the brain to integrate theoretical concepts more easily (hand-brain link).
Immersion-based learning with artisans, artists, or farmers allows learners to touch and feel the materials and understand the nuances and subtleties of the craft. By working alongside seasoned professionals, learners acquire practical skills, develop their dexterity, and perfect their technique.
Be immersed in the desired universe
The best way to learn a language is to live in a country where it’s spoken daily. It’s much the same for manual and traditional skills.
Unlike traditional classrooms or online courses/tutorials, immersive training with working artisans and farmers offers a distraction-free environment. Learners are fully immersed in the world of their chosen profession, where every moment of the training is dedicated to learning and absorbing knowledge, as well as to understanding the world in which the artisan works.
Even informal moments like breaks and meals, for example, are shared with other participants and the professional trainer. This encourages discussion about each participant’s projects and helps participants discover the professional environment. This unparalleled concentration promotes faster and more in-depth assimilation of knowledge.
Learn from the mistakes of others
Interacting with experienced professionals in their field allows learners to benefit from a true treasure: their experience. These seasoned artisans, artists, and farmers have often spent decades honing their expertise. They are eager to share their know-how and anecdotes with those who show interest in their craftsmanship. This dialogue between (future) peers enriches learning. It also provides unique perspectives by imparting non-formal (unwritten) skills. The trainers who welcome participants often demonstrate unparalleled transparency: sharing good advice, but also warning about the obstacles they have faced—and overcome.
A friendly and sharing moment
Beyond theoretical and technical skills, training with working artisans, artists, or farmers offers an invaluable human experience. Being physically present with other participants sharing similar and/or complementary projects and caring instructors creates lasting bonds. These relationships foster potential future collaborations and support the development of professional or personal projects in the field of manual and ecological skills. The social aspect of this type of training fosters self-confidence and allows you to mature your project thanks to constructive feedback and the dynamic and encouragement of the group.
Immersion training: a winning combination for project leaders
For a project leader seeking a career change or diversification, training in manual trades through immersion with working artisans and farmers offers a unique opportunity to learn in a hands-on, distraction-free way. It allows for strong connections with experienced professionals who are eager to share their expertise.
This enriching and human approach stimulates learners’ passion and effectively prepares them to launch themselves into the world of the local and ecological economy, in craft, artistic, or agricultural professions with high environmental value.
