Special needs and inclusive education, the Italian experience of overcoming segregation

This course provided educators with valuable insights into inclusive education by emphasizing practical strategies, co-teaching models, and the effective integration of students with special needs. Participants engaged in school visits and expert discussions, gaining hands-on experience that can be directly applied to foster inclusivity and participation in their own classrooms.
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The new edition of the course “Special needs and inclusive education, the Italian experience of overcoming segregation” took place in Bologna from 09/02/2025 - 15/02/2025. The participants came from all across Europe, including Michael Peter Hoecke from vhs Aschaffenburg in Germany; Maria del Pilar Pastor Muñoz from IES Alonso Quijano in Spain; Ana Cristina Antunes Pires, Elsa Cristina Magalhães Domingos Lino, Maria Luísa Brito Magalhães Lançós, and Joana Magalhães Leite de Barros from Agrupamento de Escolas da Senhora da Hora in Portugal; and Ernesta Spudienė, Jurgita Skurdeliene, Laima Viskintiene, and Sandra Jocyte - Auryliene from Kvedarna Kazimieras Jaunius Gymnasium in Lithuania.

The course started with a school presentation and introduction to the concept of inclusion in education. In inclusive education, creating an environment where all students, regardless of their abilities or backgrounds, feel valued and supported is essential. Educators should implement strategies that acknowledge student differences, providing personalized approaches for success. Collaboration and openness to new methods are key to fostering an inclusive environment, ensuring equal opportunities for all students.
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Next, participants explored the Italian model of inclusive education by visiting the school “Manfredi-Tanari”, a great example of an inclusive school in the local area. In this visit, participants saw how co-teaching is applied in classrooms to meet the diverse needs of students. The role of support teachers in this system was also highlighted, showing how important teamwork is for creating an inclusive learning environment.

On the third day, participants had the chance to join a video call with an Italian support teacher who shared his personal experience with inclusion. This was followed by a group activity where participants studied Italian documents on inclusion, helping them to understand the ideas and practices that shape inclusion in Italy.

One of the most important topics of the course was membership and the need to belong. In this session, participants discussed how important it is for students, especially those with special needs, to feel like they are part of the community. Feeling that they belong helps students stay motivated and engaged in their learning.
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The course ended with a session on inclusive teaching methods and the use of ICT tools. Teachers learned about different strategies and technology that can help make learning more accessible and interesting for all students. These tools allow educators to create lessons that meet the needs of each student, encouraging greater participation and learning.

Throughout the course, participants gained both practical tools and important ideas that will help them bring inclusivity into their own classrooms. The discussions were engaging, and the participants’ passion for making education better for everyone made the course a truly inspiring experience. This journey was a great reminder of how education can break down barriers and help every student feel included.
Discover more about this course here.