The Teachers' and Students' Perceptions about Inclusion through Innovative Learning Environments

The objective of our ongoing exploratory research is to understand whether the organisation of learning spaces is beneficial for the inclusion of all students, especially those with severe learning disabilities. The research has been conducted in six different schools, which range from primary to secondary schools, four of them are in Italy and two in Denmark. Several techniques have been used for data collection: maps and documents; videos and photographs; geometric and photographic surveys; direct observation of the school premises, objects and interactions; group and individual interviews with principals, teachers and students. The research has highlighted that teachers in inclusive schools are more aware of the organisation of the learning spaces and the flexible and changeable setting enables inclusion, multiple teaching strategies, learning individualisation and an educational community.