Description:
The TE4I project was developed between 2010 and 2012 by the European Agency for Development in Special Needs Education with the support of the European Commission. In total, 55 experts from 25 different countries were brought together with the main aim of exploring how teachers could be prepared for their work in inclusive settings. The project methodology involved literature reviews of national reports and case studies in 14 countries between 2010 and 2011. Within these, site visits were conducted to analyse inclusive education practices. Within this framework, a competency profile was developed focusing on an integration of knowledge, attitudes and skills that supported inclusive education. The main objectives of the project were the following:
- To identify the core competences that all teachers need to participate in inclusive education.
- Design profiles based on core values such as diversity, equality and participation.
- Provide a competency framework that covers the essential attitudes, knowledge and skills of all teachers, regardless of discipline or level of education.
- Promote a systematic approach that engages all teachers, not just those in education.
This project made key recommendations for teacher education programmes that make inclusive education the responsibility of all teachers. In addition, it called for changes at the education policy level and the introduction of these competences in teacher education and continuing professional development. Among the areas for improvement in education policy, several key recommendations for optimising inclusive education in Europe were highlighted. For example, the recruitment of teachers, their initial training and continuing professional development as well as inter-institutional collaboration and exchange of good practice among the education community were highlighted.
