Meet the HEDforALL Project Partner
Lucia Ferlino (CNR-ITD)

Lucia Ferlino is a researcher at CNR-ITD with a degree in Pedagogy from the University of Genoa. Her research focuses on digital educational resources, e-learning, inclusion, accessibility, and teacher training. She has taught in specialization courses for support teachers and collaborated with various chairs at the Department of Educational Sciences at the University of Genoa. Lucia has contributed to numerous research projects, including Essediquadro, SoDiLinux, and HEDforALL, all aimed at promoting the use of technologies for inclusion and educational innovation.

Three questions to Lucia Ferlino

What is your role in the HEDforALL project?

“As a researcher at CNR-ITD, my role in the HEDforALL project revolves around designing and evaluating accessible educational materials for students with disabilities. I work closely with the project partners to ensure that the resources we develop are practical, user-friendly, and tailored to meet the needs of students across different types of disabilities. I also contribute to the development of guidelines and tools that can be applied by educators to create inclusive and accessible learning environments.”

Why is accessibility in higher education so important?

“Accessibility is not just a right—it is a prerequisite for achieving equity in education. In higher education, students with disabilities often face barriers that limit their participation and success. These barriers can range from inaccessible learning materials to the lack of understanding or support from academic staff. Addressing these challenges is critical to providing all students with the opportunity to thrive and succeed in their academic journeys. Inclusive practices benefit not only students with disabilities but also the entire educational community by fostering diversity and equal opportunities.”

How is the HEDforALL project contributing to improving accessibility?

“The HEDforALL project is working on several fronts to enhance accessibility in higher education. We are developing customized educational materials that are specifically designed to meet the diverse needs of students with disabilities. The project also emphasizes the importance of training academic staff and accessibility advisors, providing them with the necessary tools and skills to support students in their learning. Moreover, by creating an online repository of accessible resources, HEDforALL is ensuring that these materials are available to educators and students across Europe, promoting widespread use and knowledge sharing.”