2026-06-04 17:07:05
Expert Consultations in the INCLUSION Module – 15 and 20 May 2026
The INCLUSION phase marked the third module of the Upgrade Your Course PLA, focusing on the creation of equitable, accessible, and learner-centred educational environments. Led by Silke Preymann, head of the PROFFORMANCE development group for Inclusion in Teaching and Learning, the expert consultations encouraged participants to reflect on how course design can better respond to the diverse needs and backgrounds of students.
Session on 15 May – understanding inclusive course design
The first expert consultation introduced the Inclusion module and provided participants with an overview of the learning activities and practical exercises. The session focused on the principles of inclusive course design and highlighted approaches that can help create learning environments where every student has the opportunity to succeed.
The programme included:
- Introduction to the Inclusion module
- Overview of the course activities and practical exercises
- Expert input by Silke Preymann
- Interactive discussion and peer exchange
Using a collaborative Menti activity, participants shared examples of good practices from their own institutions and reflected on the main challenges of implementing inclusive course design. The discussion highlighted the importance of flexibility, accessibility, and sensitivity to the diverse circumstances and learning needs of students.
Session on 20 May – from theory to practice
The second consultation built on the initial discussions by supporting participants in the completion of the practical exercises. To stimulate reflection, the session featured a video from a Genially learning module presenting the story of a student raising a child while pursuing higher education.
Based on this case, participants exchanged experiences about the ways their own institutions support students with similar needs. A wide range of institutional solutions were discussed, including:
- shared childcare initiatives,
- parent-and-baby rooms,
- flexible learning pathways,
- and other learner-centred support services.
The session also addressed the opportunities and challenges of hybrid teaching and learning environments, exploring how flexibility can be balanced with maintaining high-quality educational experiences.
Another key topic was the concept of Inclusive Excellence, emphasizing that inclusion and educational quality are not competing objectives but mutually reinforcing principles. Participants reflected on how institutions can ensure high-quality learning opportunities for increasingly diverse student populations.
The role of artificial intelligence in supporting inclusive education was also explored. Discussions focused on how AI-powered tools can contribute to the development of more accessible learning materials, personalized learning experiences, and inclusive teaching practices.
Learning through shared experiences
Throughout the module, peer learning played a central role. The expert consultations provided a collaborative space where participants could exchange ideas, discuss institutional practices, and learn from one another's experiences. By combining expert guidance with practical examples and reflective discussions, the Inclusion module supported participants in designing courses that are not only academically rigorous but also accessible, equitable, and responsive to the needs of all learners.
