IN-PERSON Prague Research & Teaching Conference
Abstract
Inclusive education is not just a policy or a trend in education; it is a profound belief that every child, regardless of their background, abilities, or challenges, has the right to learn, grow, and thrive in an environment that celebrates diversity. This presentation will share the results of a year-long project focused on establishing inclusive education practices in Greek schools. In collaboration with professionals from the George Mason University (USA), the purpose of the program was to develop a comprehensive professional development program for teachers across the Primary, Secondary, and Higher Education sectors in Greece. The primary focus on inclusive learning and teaching, special needs education, and universal design for learning and teaching. However, in addition to focusing on students with disabilities, the inclusive practices were demonstrated for culturally diverse learners coming to Greece from other countries and speaking other languages. Additional information was shared on best practices in using learning technologies in classrooms. Initially, a survey research study was conducted to explore teachers’ perceptions and experiences with supporting students with various abilities and needs. Then, after several professional development sessions, inclusive practices were implemented in numerous classrooms. The teachers then presented examples of different activities and learner outcomes. These examples showcased a unique project addressing the critical need for better understanding and implementation of inclusive practices. Thus, the collaboration between countries, educational organizations and different disciplines made a lasting impact on the educational landscape in Greece by promoting inclusive learning environments and enhancing the skills of teachers to cater to diverse student needs.
Dr. Evmenova is a professor in the College of Education and Human Development at George Mason University. Her research interests focus on the use of technology for inclusive education and academic instruction for students with various abilities and needs, Universal Design for Learning, and high-quality online teaching. Dr. Evmenova has raised more than $20 million in federal and state grants to support her research and new developments. She has conducted numerous professional development workshops for teacher around the world to promote inclusive educational practices.
Dr. Joan Kang Shin is a professor in the College of Education and Human Development at George Mason University in the United States. At George Mason, she is the Associate Dean for Faculty Success and the Director of the Global Online Teacher Education Center (GOTEC). She is an award-winning author and series editor for National Geographic Learning. Her titles include Breaking Through the Screen, Teaching Young Learners English, Our World, and Impact. In 2021, she was named one of the top 30 English Language Specialists by the U.S. Department of State in recognition of her lasting impact on the Specialist Program and the field of TESOL. She currently sits on the Board of Trustees for The International Research Foundation for English Language Education (TIRF).
Dr. Jered Borup is an associate professor in the College of Education and Human Development at George Mason University. He teaches courses that are devoted to improving teacher practices in online and blended learning environments. Previous to earning his Ph.D. at Brigham Young University, Jered taught history at a junior high school for six years. He has also taught online and blended courses since 2008. His current research focuses on K-12 online and blended teaching and learner supports. With 52 peer-reviewed journal articles and 20 book chapters, he is a leading researcher in K-12 online learning. He has also published several books including an open book series on K-12 blended teaching (https://edtechbooks.org/k12blended_series).
3:30 pm - 5:00 pm
Tuesday 10th June, 2025