Call for abstracts: International Conference on Inclusive Student-Centered Pedagogies in Higher Education

The Centre of Teaching and Learning (TOTT) at the University of Crete is proud to host the International Conference on Inclusive Student-Centered Pedagogies, taking place from May 23-25, 2025, in Heraklion, Crete organised by COALITION Erasmus project. This event will bring together educators, researchers, and academic leaders from around the globe to explore innovative practices in higher education that foster inclusivity, equity, active student engagement, and assessment FOR learning and success.

Why This Conference Matters

Higher education is facing unprecedented challenges, the need for inclusive, student-centered approaches has never been more urgent. This conference provides a critical platform for exchanging ideas and strategies that challenge traditional hierarchies in education. By focusing on practices that position students as co-creators of their learning, we aim to empower educators to design curricula, environments, and assessment methods that reflect democratic values and respect diverse student voices.

Highlights from Keynote Speakers

This year’s conference features an exceptional lineup of keynote speakers who are at the forefront of inclusive pedagogical innovation:

• Alison Cook-Sather will present “Co-creating Courses with Students: Enacting and Fostering Inclusive Student-Centered Pedagogies.” Drawing on frameworks from Bovill (2020) and her work with Jiayi Loh (2023), Cook-Sather will illustrate how co-creation disrupts traditional teacher-student hierarchies by granting agency to both sides while acknowledging their distinct roles. She will share examples of co-creation across different stages of a course, substantiating these practices with evidence of positive student outcomes and reflections on how they foster inclusivity.
• Klara Bolander Laksov will address “Leading Academic Development Towards Inclusive Pedagogies – Can We Be Truly Inclusive?” Her session will delve into the types of leadership needed to drive institutional change, balancing democracy, equity, and academic excellence. Laksov’s insights aim to inspire educators to navigate the complex tensions between ethical aspirations and systemic constraints.
• Kathleen M. Quinlan will explore “Promoting Students’ Interests: A Key to Student-Centric, Inclusive Education.” Quinlan emphasizes the importance of supporting students’ evolving interests during higher education. Her talk will highlight practical strategies to cultivate these interests through curricular and extracurricular pathways, ensuring students’ academic and personal growth.
• David Smith will tackle “The Power and Peril of AI in Education,” examining how AI tools can either enhance or hinder inclusive teaching practices. Smith’s session promises to ignite critical discussions about integrating technology responsibly in education.

Submit your abstract in https://coalition-erasmusplus.com/coference and join us in Crete to engage in transformative dialogues and network with peers committed to reimagining higher education. Together, we can shape a future where all students thrive.

For more information contact: Dr. Kallia Katsampoxaki-Hodgetts katsampoxaki AT uoc DOT gr