FIESTA’s innovative tools and materials in facilitating SEN students’ transition

Abstract

The article is a study of the main outputs of the European FIESTA project (FIESTA- 5177848-LLP-1-2011-1-IECOMENIUS-CNW) and the way it has been implemented by EuroEd Foundation. The project aims at developing a multi-disciplinary learning approach for professionals in education, health and social services in order to facilitate the additional learning and support requirements of children with special needs during periods of transition. The network facilitates children with special needs during the following periods of transition: (1) Transition of children with special needs to mainstream environments. (2) Transition of children with special needs from pre-school to primary school and from primary school to secondary school. The article presents the results of the research programme which examined the existing best practice models/structures and educational practices used in nine European countries in order to establish a set of standardised criteria/ recommendations and overall baseline for best practice models to assist children with additional needs during periods of transition. It also focuses on the project main outputs: the online training course and its three modules as well as the way it has been received in our country by stakeholders as a result of its implementation. The modules and courses addressing the national teacher training curriculum aim at producing qualified teachers who address and support transition stages for disabled students in inclusive settings.