Bisogni speciali e istruzione inclusiva, l'esperienza italiana di superamento della segregazione

In every classroom, there are different ways of seeing, thinking, and learning. Recognizing and celebrating these differences is what makes education truly powerful. Inclusive education is not simply about adapting lessons for a few students, it’s about transforming the whole learning environment so that everyone, regardless of their abilities or background, can feel valued and supported.
The course “Special needs and inclusive education: the Italian experience of overcoming segregation”, held in Palermo from 30th November to 6th December 2025. This edition brought together passionate educators from across Europe: Anu, Katri, Maija, Kerttuli and Katjamaria from Taitotalo / AEL – Amiedu in Finland and Amela from Volksschule Waltendorf in Austria.

The course began with an introduction to the concept of inclusion in education, highlighting how every child should have access to meaningful learning experiences within a shared classroom environment. Through practical discussions and collaborative activities, participants reflected on their own approaches and explored ways to adapt lessons to better meet the needs of each student. They also learned how to build supportive classroom communities, where cooperation, empathy, and flexibility play a key role. To introduce themselves and provide more background, they gave a presentation about their schools and explained how the educational models work both in their institutions and in their countries

During the third and fourth days, some of the course’s highlight moments were the school visits to Istituto Livatino in Ficarazzi and Liceo Giovanni Meli in Palermo, where participants were able to observe inclusion in practice. Visiting a local public school allowed them to see how co-teaching and support systems function in real classroom settings. They sat in on classes as observers, explored the different areas of the school, and met teachers who shared their experiences and challenges, providing authentic insight into how inclusion is nurtured day by day.
During the week, the group examined the Italian model of inclusive education, which is internationally recognized for its commitment to integrating students with special needs into mainstream schools. They discussed the experience they had in the schools, and how issues of inclusion are addressed in their own educational contexts. They also reflected on how this approach developed historically and how collaboration between classroom teachers, support teachers, and families ensures that no learner is left behind.

The programme also emphasized the importance of empathy and growth mindset among educators, exploring co-teaching models and classroom management strategies that promote shared responsibility and self awareness.

Participants explored various ICT tools and assistive technologies, discussing how these resources can enhance accessibility, motivation, and student engagement. They also reflected on how such tools can support learners with diverse needs, including students with learning difficulties, by making the learning experience more inclusive and interactive.
By the end of the week, the participants had gained a deeper understanding of how inclusive education can transform schools into spaces where every learner feels capable and valued. They left Palermo with renewed energy, practical tools, and a strong sense of community ready to continue promoting inclusion in their own educational settings.

Scopri di più su questo corso qui.