On May 12, 2025, the 10th scientific seminar of the Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences (HSZI) of Daugavpils University “The Past, Present, and Future of Latgale: Interdisciplinary Experience and Perspectives,” took place, in which Institute’s senior researcher Mārīte Kravale-Pauliņa presented her report “Are We Inclusive in Higher Education?”

During the presentation, an overview of the experience gained so far in the Erasmus+ project “Teaching Staff as Educators for Inclusive Teaching in Optimal Networks” (COALITION) was provided. M. Kravale-Pauliņa emphasized that DU teaching staff representing the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Healthcare, as well as HSZI are actively participating in the project.

The project is being implemented with the aim of promoting inclusive, student-centred pedagogy by adapting the study process to the diverse needs of students. Within the framework of the project, obstacles and possible solutions were identified at the system/organizational, study content and individual levels, and an appropriate methodology was developed and tested – peer observation, action research, co-creation of materials, and strengthening student opinion. Particular attention was paid to overcoming physical, socio-cultural and cognitive barriers, promoting student participation and creating a supportive learning environment.

During the seminar, it was suggested that one of the main priorities for the future is to continue professional development and institutional support. The results of the COALITION project have promoted teaching staff’s understanding of student diversity and offered practical solutions for implementing inclusive education.

The project, which will be implemented by August 2025, is being carried out in cooperation with partner institutions from Greece, Romania, Spain, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Latvia. Daugavpils University’s participation in the project is in line with the priorities set out in its development strategy for 2022–2028 – student-centred education and the development of transferable skills.

Additional information:
Dr. Mārīte Kravale-Pauliņa
Daugavpils University
E-mail: marite.kravale@du.lv