Aim of the TIG

The TIG Special Educational Needs (SEN) brings together educators, researchers, and practitioners committed to fostering inclusive education across Europe and beyond. Our mission is to create a collaborative space where knowledge, experiences, and good / best practices are shared to support learners with diverse needs from an inclusive perspective. The aim of the TIG is to discuss and compare good practices related to Special Educational Needs (SEN), Inclusion, and Diversity across different countries. And to promote SEN teaching within educational programs that are mostly based on published research outcomes.

Program

During the spring conference / symposium we have a three-day program (usually Wednesday – Friday). Our meetings are designed to encourage active participation and meaningful exchange.

The program is structured to offer a varied and engaging learning experience. Each session usually begins with a 20 -30-minute presentation, followed by a short discussion in which participants can ask questions and share insights. In addition to these presentations, interactive workshops are offered, featuring practical tasks and group activities that deepen understanding and stimulate collaboration.

On the first morning, participants visit a school to observe inclusive practices in action and engage with the school team. This is followed on the afternoon by thematic sessions that focus on current issues in education, providing space for reflection and exploration. The program continues next morning with general SEN presentations aimed at informing and inspiring a broad audience interested in special and inclusive education.

Altogether, the program combines presentations, workshops, thematic sessions, and a school visit, offering rich opportunities for learning, cooperation, and inspiration.

Call for Participation

We warmly invite new members and contributors to join our group. Whether you are a teacher educator, researcher, or practitioner, your insights and experiences are invaluable. Share your projects, propose discussion topics, or simply join to learn and connect.

Interested?
By participating, you will connect with an international network of professionals passionate about inclusion. You will also gain access to innovative strategies and diverse perspectives and contribute your expertise and learn from others in a collaborative environment.

Become part of the conversation and help shape the future of inclusive education for students with SEN within ETEN.

For more information or to get involved, please contact Uffe Lund (ulu@kp.dk) or Mieke Hilster-Verhart (m.j.verhart@hr.nl)

Format of the sessions:
Short presentations (30 to 45 minutes and a 15 minute discussion) and workshops with active participation will outline the programme of the TIG seminars. Presentations on the special topic will be planned on Friday and presentations on all topics in the field of SEN will be planned on Saturday morning. In addition to the presentations, a school visit will be planned on Friday morning.

Why are we here?

• To discuss and compare different practices and experiences of dealing with Special Educational Needs (SEN), Inclusion and Diversity in different countries;
• To share and promote the teaching of SEN in Teacher Training;
• To publish results of research, articles and reports of activities; and
• To share examples of best practices in connection with students with special needs and their families.

Leuwaarden, The Netherlands
April 17-19, 2024

TIG-leaders