The Centre for Teaching and Learning of the University of West Attica successfully organized its 7th online seminar titled “Special Learning Difficulties & Interculturalism in Higher Education – Theoretical & Experiential Approaches”. The event took place on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, from 17.00 to 20.00 via MS Teams platform.
The steering committee of CTL UniWA, consisting of Y. Psaromiligkos, S. Asonitou, and M. Chatzigianni, introduced keynote speaker, Dr. Yianna Voukelatou. Mrs. Voukelatou commenced her presentation by addressing the specific provision for students with disabilities to enter into university institutions and the inadequate training of instructors in managing teaching practices for them. Furthermore, she delved into an extensive discussion on various forms of Special Educational Needs, encompassing intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, sensory impairments, motor disabilities, chronic incurable diseases, speech-language disorders, and learning disabilities. She also emphasized the importance of adopting an inclusive approach to ensure equitable treatment of students and to optimize their learning outcomes. In her concluding remarks, Mrs. Voukelatou touched upon the topic of multiculturalism and the significance of an intercultural approach within the educational realm. This approach aims to foster an environment that embraces diversity and promotes understanding among students from different cultural backgrounds. Overall, the seminar provided valuable insights into the challenges faced by students with special educational needs and highlighted the importance of inclusive practices and intercultural awareness in educational settings.
This was followed by the submission of concerns, which were openly discussed and focused on the following central pillars aimed at promoting equal participation in the learning process:
- Personalized learning: Tailoring education to meet the unique needs and preferences of each student.
- Development of inclusive education in university institutions: Ensuring that all students, regardless of their background or abilities, have equal access to quality education within university settings.
- Availability and training in educational tools: Providing teachers and students with easy access to effective educational tools and ensuring they receive proper training to utilize them efficiently.
- Collaborative learning and fostering a sense of belonging: Encouraging students to work together, fostering a collaborative learning environment, and strengthening their sense of belonging within the educational community.
These concerns were brought forth in an open dialogue, emphasizing the importance of equal participation in the educational process.
You can watch the 7th seminar in Greek on Center for Teaching & Learning @ UniWA youtube channel:
- Greetings from the CTL UniWA steering committee
- Introduction to Emerging Adulthood & Experiential Approaches in Higher Education
- Models for addressing disability & various forms of Special Educational Needs: The University era
- Mental Retardation & Autism: Understanding and Supporting Students
- Sensory Deficits & Motor Problems: Enhancing Accessibility in Higher Education
- Inclusive University Education, Interculturalism & Grouwork: Fostering Diversity and Collaboration
- Open discussion of the Centre of Teaching & Learning UniWA