Report launch – Inclusive Learning at NUI Galway

Supported by the National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, the Inclusive Learning at NUI Galway project set out to enhance inclusive teaching and learning practice at the university for postgraduate students, particularly those from diverse backgrounds. The goal of the project was to centre the student voice – to hear directly from our students, and to learn from their lived experiences.

Student diversity is a strategic priority at NUI Galway. However, in line with the university’s values of Respect and Openness, the focus of this report is on students’ sense of inclusion at all levels within the university, including the barriers they experience to inclusion and participation. The report particularly focuses on the experiences of international and intercultural students, students with disabilities, LGBT+ students, students of different genders, and students with caring responsibilities (particularly those who are parents). It also explores the experiences of students during the Covid-19 pandemic, particularly in relation to remote learning. Having identified a range of issues, the report makes recommendations to address systemic and attitudinal barriers to learning and build a truly inclusive learning environment.

The report will be launched by the President of the University, Prof. Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh, with a special message from the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Mr Simon Harris.

The authors will then present the project findings. The Dean of Graduate Studies Prof Dónal Leech and a student representative Mx Cameron Keighron respond to the findings. The President of USI Ms Clare Austick will provide the concluding observations.

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A short video on the Inclusive Learning Project is attached.