About the TIG
The Special Educational Needs (SEN) Thematic Interest Group brings together teacher educators, researchers, teachers, practitioners and others with an interest in special and inclusive education across Europe and beyond.
Our TIG provides a collaborative and welcoming space for sharing research, knowledge, experiences and educational practices related to special educational needs, inclusion and diversity. By bringing together perspectives from different countries, educational settings and professional backgrounds, we aim to encourage dialogue, learning and collaboration across contexts.
Aims and vision
The SEN TIG aims to:
– promote international exchange and collaboration in the field of special and inclusive education;
– share and critically discuss research, educational practices and experiences across different countries and contexts;
– strengthen connections between research, teacher education and educational practice;
– support the development of special and inclusive education within teacher education;
– create opportunities for new professional and research collaborations; and
– provide a forum for exploring current and emerging issues related to special educational needs, inclusion and diversity.
Who is the TIG for?
We welcome anyone with a professional or academic interest in special and inclusive education, including teacher educators, researchers, teachers, practitioners and doctoral students.
Whether you are a long-standing member of ETEN or joining us for the first time, the TIG offers opportunities to exchange ideas and experiences, learn from colleagues working in different educational systems and develop new international connections.
What do we do?
During the annual ETEN symposium, the SEN TIG brings members together through a varied programme of presentations, workshops, thematic discussions and informal opportunities for exchange and networking.
We welcome contributions relating to research, educational practice, teacher education, ongoing projects and other topics relevant to special educational needs, inclusion and diversity. Sessions are intended to encourage active participation and dialogue, allowing members not only to present their work but also to discuss ideas, experiences and challenges with colleagues from different countries.
A school visit is an important part of our TIG programme. It provides an opportunity to engage with educational practice in the host country and to reflect together on similarities, differences and shared challenges across educational contexts.
Get involved
We warmly welcome new members and contributors.
There are many ways to take part: present your research or practice, lead a workshop, introduce an ongoing project, propose a topic for discussion, or simply join us to listen, exchange ideas and connect with colleagues.
We hope the SEN TIG can provide a space not only for sharing existing work, but also for developing new ideas, connections and collaborations.
TIG Leaders
Dr Lucy Barker
Northumbria University, United Kingdom
Dr Linda Petersson-Bloom
Kristianstad University, Sweden
Archive
Vlorë 2026 Program
Hasselt, 2025. Program
Leuwaarden, The Netherlands
April 17-19, 2024. Program
