Inclusive Learning Spaces

This 5-day Erasmus training was held first time in Helsinki’s libraries in June 2025, exploring the impact of sustainability, inclusion, and classroom/library design on student learning. For those with Erasmus projects, it is important to know that the course is also available on the ESEP platform. The course is organized once per year because trainers are available only during the summer vacation. The next course is scheduled from June 29th to July 3rd, 2026, in Istanbul in collaboration with the Koc School and the Rami Library. Sessions from Helsinki are available here.

The course Inclusive Learning Spaces encouraged discussion about concrete steps each of us can take to create a more inclusive environment. We concluded that even small steps that show respect for diversity, interest in individual students’ needs, and collaboration with others are the path we need to take. Participants learned about the work of international organizations International Association of School Librarianship, the IFLA School Libraries Section and the IFLA Section on Education and Training and agreed on plans for continued collaboration. We visited Helsinki Central Library Oodi, Helsinki University Library and multicultural Keinutie Primary School in Helsinki. This course is developed by Dr. Maria Fe Nicolau in collaboration with Fredrik Ernerot, Vice President of the IASL.

The trainers, top global experts in the field of education and librarianship, shared their extensive experience in creating an inclusive learning space. Each participant received a Certificate and the Europass Mobility Document (on demand).

Overall purpose of the workshop

Recent research highlights how physical learning environments greatly affect students’ well-being, learning, and performance. A study by Barrett et al. (2019) supports this, showing that factors like classroom design, lighting, and air quality can boost learning progress by up to 16%. By improving access to well-designed spaces like classrooms and libraries, schools can significantly enhance students’ academic and social experiences, while also benefiting their well-being.

To enable educators, librarians and administrators put these findings into practice, the 5-day training, offers an excellent opportunity to explore how library design can impact student learning.