In building a contemporary and modern society, great emphasis is placed on tolerance, acceptance, and inclusion. The same principle must be applied in schools—because by creating an inclusive school, we also create an inclusive society.
For this reason, I chose to dedicate myself to teaching through this type of teacher training course within the Erasmus+ program, where inclusion, creativity, and innovative teaching methods take center stage.
As a mentor teacher, I face the same question every day: How can I bring the content of lessons closer to every single student?
This question is crucial not only when working with gifted students but also with those who have learning difficulties. My experience shows that it is worth experimenting, seeking new methods, and creating lessons that students will remember.
One way to do this is by working with materials such as clay, applied within the STEM and STEAM approach, opening new possibilities for learners.
Inclusion in Practice
An inclusive classroom is not only about supporting students with challenges such as dyslexia, ADHD, or autism. It is about embracing all differences each student brings.
Every student has their own interests, needs, and learning pace—and it is our responsibility to ensure an environment where everyone can find their place.
Courses like those developed by Lina Edu in Split, Croatia have proven to be highly valuable for teachers. They provide:
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Practical methods for creating inclusive classrooms
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Professional development opportunities
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Personal growth for educators
That is why I believe experiences like this are invaluable for every teacher who wants to build the school of the future—open, creative, and inclusive.
What Does Clay Have to Do with STEM?
At first glance, clay might not seem connected to science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.
Yet when art joins STEM to become STEAM, tactile and sensory experiences such as clay work can completely transform the way we teach and learn.
They:
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Support students with learning difficulties
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Encourage inclusion
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Open up space for creativity in ways purely theoretical lessons cannot
This is the foundation of Lina Edu’s Erasmus+ teacher training course in Split, The Tactile Classroom, which explores the use of clay and ceramics as tools for personal growth, professional development, and inclusive STEAM education.
Why Is Clay Important in an Inclusive STEAM Classroom?
Research increasingly confirms what teachers already sense: tactile learning opens new opportunities for students who struggle with traditional methods.
Clay activities help by:
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Developing fine motor skills, spatial awareness, and sensory sensitivity
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Allowing every student to participate at their own level
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Building emotional and social skills through collaborative projects
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Supporting students with dyslexia, ADHD, or other learning difficulties through multisensory approaches that boost confidence and break barriers
Examples from practice show that ceramic activities can:
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Improve vocabulary acquisition
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Enhance concentration
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Positively influence behaviour
In inclusive classrooms, clay allows all students—regardless of ability—to participate actively, achieve success, and be recognised.
The Tactile Classroom Course in Split
“The Tactile Classroom: Ceramics as a Tool for Special Needs and Inclusion” is a unique education program for teachers from across Europe.
It combines creativity, cultural heritage, and inclusive practice, and aligns perfectly with Erasmus+ priorities: equity, innovation, and well-being.
Course Categories
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Cultural heritage
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Inclusion
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Creativity and soft skills
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Outdoor learning
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School innovations
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Well-being
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STEM and STEAM learning
Main Objectives
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Develop awareness of cultural heritage through artistic expression
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Improve creative and motor skills through clay work
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Connect art with school subjects in the STEAM approach
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Design inclusive teaching methods for students with learning difficulties
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Strengthen motor abilities through practical activities
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Explore ceramics in extracurricular activities
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Experience different clay processing techniques: modeling, painting, glazing
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Apply digital tools (e.g. Canva) to present artistic works
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Link art with outdoor learning through exploring cultural elements of Split
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Promote teacher well-being through creative, relaxing art practices
Expected Learning Outcomes
Participants completing the course will be able to:
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Use clay in teaching through shaping and decorating techniques
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Understand and apply cultural heritage in artistic expression
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Develop inclusive teaching methods that encourage participation of all students
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Create projects connecting art and STEM fields
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Master painting and clay processing techniques (including pottery wheel)
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Apply digital tools to present artistic works
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Design inclusive artistic activities adapted for students with learning difficulties
A Week in Split: What Teachers Learn
The five-day course combines theory, practical workshops, and exploration of Split’s cultural heritage.
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Monday: Introduction to art in education; first tactile contact with clay; creating simple functional objects
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Tuesday: Shaping a cup and plate (pinching method); exploring cultural motifs; painting with engobes
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Wednesday: Field trip through Split; sketching cultural heritage details
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Thursday: Creating clay ornaments inspired by Split; digital presentation
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Friday: Focus on inclusion—adapting clay activities for students with learning difficulties; designing inclusive projects; sharing best practices
At the end of the week, every participant designs their own inclusive project or lesson, ready to apply in their classroom.
Why This Approach Matters
Inclusive STEAM education is not a passing trend, but a necessity.
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Today’s students face complex challenges.
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Teachers need tools that support every learner.
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Clay—simple yet powerful—is sensory, versatile, culturally rooted, and sparks creativity.
For schools, this means:
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Stronger inclusion
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Higher student engagement
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Alignment with European education priorities
For teachers, it means:
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Renewed inspiration
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Fresh methods
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Opportunities for both personal growth and professional development
A Call to Teachers and Schools
If you are looking for a teacher training course that brings together creativity, inclusion, and STEAM, the Lina Edu program in Split, Croatia offers exactly that.
Supported by the Erasmus+ program, this course is more than just a workshop—it is a transformative experience for educators and their students.
Because education is not only about transferring knowledge.
It is about shaping minds, fostering creativity, and creating spaces where every student belongs.
Karla Kovačušić
Technology and Computer Science Teacher
