Workshop on Intellectual Disability Education Strengthens University-School Collaboration at Universidad de Chile

A workshop titled “Discapacidad intelectual y niñez” organized by the Pedagogía en Educación Especial program at the Universidad de Chile’s Facultad de Ciencias Sociales brought together educators from affiliated institutions on June 12, focusing on sharing experiences and advancing strategies for teaching children with intellectual disabilities, according to a statement from the university.

Building Partnerships Through Practical Training

The event, led by the program’s Practical Training Team—including Miranda Montealegre, Abigail Díaz, Camila Marchant, and Mariana Rodríguez—aimed to strengthen ties between the university and educational institutions that host student teachers, as reported by the Facultad de Ciencias Sociales. Marcela Betancourt, the program’s head, emphasized the importance of these collaborations, stating, “The trust placed in our new program by schools is deeply valued, as it allows us to connect academic training with real-world educational challenges.”

With the program in its second year, Betancourt highlighted the significance of schools welcoming students early in their training. “This collaboration provides students with critical hands-on experience, which is essential for their professional development,” she noted.

Educators Highlight Value of Continuous Professional Development

Erika Carrasco Vázquez, a differential educator at Reyes Católicos School, described the workshop as a valuable opportunity to reinforce university-school partnerships. “It helps us align our efforts and prepare for the future work of students across different educational levels,” she said.

Carrasco also stressed the necessity of ongoing training for educators. “Special education requires constant updating, and sessions like this are vital for maintaining high standards of care and instruction,” she added.

Focus on Inclusive Education and Community Engagement

The workshop underscored the program’s commitment to inclusive education, with participants discussing strategies to address the unique needs of children with intellectual disabilities. Betancourt reiterated the program’s goal of creating “situated training” that reflects local realities, stating, “Academia and schools must work together to ensure our graduates are equipped to meet current educational challenges.”

The event marked another step in the program’s efforts to establish a network of collaborating institutions, as part of its broader mission to promote inclusive educational practices in Chile.

Reporting by Belén Muñoz, Encargada de Difusión Oferta Formativa, Facultad de Ciencias Sociales, Universidad de Chile.