Becoming a Critical Friend for the Inclusion Project #FOP at Jönköping University

Gothenburg Airport Sweden, large mural on the car park wall

I have joined an Erasmus+ project this week that promotes inclusion through art and technology offering a unique chance to contribute meaningfully to society. I'm at Jönköping University in Sweden, where the inclusion project aims to foster participation and creativity among diverse groups, inspired by the initiative Friends of Pandora (#FOP) project at Casa da Imagem with the National Museum of Contemporary Art Athens (UMST) and the University of Porto. Acting as a critical friend in such a project means more than just offering feedback; it involves supporting the international team with constructive insights, encouraging reflection, and helping to shape the project’s direction to maximise its impact for SEND learners.

A critical friend acts as a trusted advisor who provides honest, thoughtful feedback while maintaining a supportive stance. This role is essential in projects focused on inclusion because it helps ensure that the voices of all participants are heard and valued. The critical friend challenges assumptions, highlights potential blind spots, and encourages the team to consider diverse perspectives.

In the context of the inclusion/SEND project at Jönköping University, the critical friend:

• Observes and engages in the project activities/workshops and interactions without judgment;

• Offers constructive criticism aimed at improving inclusivity and engagement;

• Encourages reflection on art based research methods and outcomes;

• Supports the team in adapting approaches based on feedback.

  
  

This approach helps the project stay aligned with its goals of promoting participation for careers and SEND participants through creative and technological means.

The #FOP initiative provides a valuable example of how art and technology can promote inclusion. The project is designed to 'enable carers to support person with intellectual disabilities participate on social media'. This project uses creative workshops and digital tools to engage participants from different backgrounds, fostering a sense of community and empowerment.

Key elements from the #FOP project include:

• Collaborative art creation: Participants work together on artistic projects, which helps build trust and shared purpose;

• Use of accessible technology: Tools are chosen to be user-friendly and adaptable to different skill levels;

• Focus on personal stories: Encouraging participants to express their experiences through art strengthens connection and understanding;

• Feedback: Each event is concluded with evaluation and systematic discussion, developing an assessment toolkit;

• Inclusive facilitation: Workshop leaders create safe spaces where everyone feels welcome and respected.

  
  

By adopting similar strategies, the project can enhance its effectiveness in reaching and engaging diverse groups.

Projects like #FOP demonstrate how combining art and technology creates powerful opportunities for inclusion. Art allows personal expression and cultural exchange, while technology provides new ways to connect and create.

This combination:

• Breaks down barriers related to language, mobility, disability or social status;

• Encourages creativity and innovation among participants;

• Builds confidence and skills that extend beyond the project;

• Develops quality resources for engaging learning events;

• Fosters community bonds and mutual understanding.

  
  

Supporting such projects as a critical friend helps ensure these benefits reach as many people as possible.