The multiplier event of the Erasmus+ project “Autism Inclusion in Distance Learning” in Latvia took place at the Rezekne Academy of Technologies (RTA) on 24 May 2024. The meeting aimed to disseminate the main results and test the developed materials of the project. 47 participants from various educational institutions attended the event. The participants represented higher education institutions, general education institutions, and institutions implementing special education programs.
The participants of the event were introduced to the developed digital platform, where support materials will be placed that will help support autistic people in the distance learning process. These materials are intended for students enrolled in (special) education programs, professionals already working with autistic individuals, and parents supporting their children on the autism spectrum in their studies. The developed materials include theoretical insights on the prevalence of autism and working methods, digital support technologies, and psychological support methods.
In his remote intervention, Christian Takow, Advocacy and Project Officer at Autism-Europe, an AutismIncludi partner based in Belgium, shared international experiences on raising public awareness for and promoting tolerance in communication about autistic people. Autism-Europe represents more than 90 non-governmental associations from over 40 countries, aiming to enhance public understanding of autism and share best practices. Christian highlighted Autism-Europe’s new multiannual Europe-wide campaign ‘Not invisible’ on raising the needs and rights of autistic people and their families. He went on to share that the COVID-19 pandemic was especially a burden for autistic people and their families and cautioned the rapid and unprepared switch to distance learning. After all distance learning should be individualised and tailor-made to each autistic learner which this project aims to enhance.
Throughout the day, event participants had the opportunity to learn about the work of RTA’s special education laboratory, share experiences with RTA lecturers, and discuss current issues in the field of special education.
The goal of the Autism-IncluDi project is to promote the inclusion of autistic students in the distance-learning environment. The model of distance learning presents many challenges for educators, parents, and students on the autism spectrum themselves. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the shift towards distance learning has been accelerated.
More information about the Autism-IncluDi project partners and the content of the developed platform can be found on the website: https://autism-includi.uom.gr/
