Escolab

The diversity of students found in a classroom presents an educational challenge but also an opportunity to enrich the learning experience for everyone. On Tuesday, February 25, the second edition of the Escolab conference dedicated to Inclusion in Educational Activities in Research Centers took place, focusing on the potential of applying Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in educational practice.

The event, held at the Institute of Evolutionary Biology (IBE), brought together around thirty participants, including researchers, teachers, and professionals in inclusive education and scientific communication involved in designing and organizing STEAM educational activities.

Highlighting multiculturalism, encouraging students to reflect on their learning achievements, and leveraging technology to enhance accessibility and autonomy for all were some of the recommendations shared by Prudens Martínez, UDL mentor and head of the guidance department at INS Antoni Cumella de Granollers. Drawing from her expertise and experience as a UDL advisor, she explained how the inclusive perspective has evolved in recent years and is increasingly present in learning environments. She also reviewed research conducted in this field, which has led to the development of UDL guidelines aimed at ensuring that all students can access and engage in meaningful and challenging learning opportunities.

Next, Mònica Català and Cristina Cegarra, Inclusive Education (DEI) facilitators from the Consorci d’Educació de Barcelona (CEB), presented two case studies of Escolab activities: TreeScape (IBE, CSIC-UPF) and From Archaeological Excavation to the Laboratory (Laboratory of Archaeology at UPF). Their analysis explored strengths, learning and participation barriers, and proposed transformative actions to promote inclusion. They also shared several recommendations with attendees based on their analysis, including the importance of understanding the profile of participating students, designing flexible proposals, and ensuring students’ autonomous roles by providing a solid foundation and guidance throughout their learning process.

To conclude the conference, participants engaged in a hands-on reflection on applying UDL guidelines to their educational proposals during the final group work session. They shared their experiences and specific cases from their institutions and activities in small groups, guided by the three expert speakers. Without a doubt, it was an inspiring event that will contribute to making Escolab activities more inclusive, allowing each student, in all their diversity, to become the protagonist of their own learning. As Prudens Martínez emphasized at the end of her presentation, Everyone deserves the opportunity to grow and succeed in their learning!