Services for students with disabilities and neurodiversity
The University of Palermo guarantees services to students with disabilities and neurodiversity who are enrolled in first, second, or third-cycle university programs. These services are outlined in the “Charter of services for students with disabilities and neurodiversity” and aim to ensure the full exercise of the right to study from university access through to their entry into the workforce.
The University Center for Disability and Neurodiversity (Ce.N.Dis.) is the university’s body that serves students with temporary or permanent disabilities and/or neurodiversity. It provides technical and/or educational aids and specialized services, which are identified based on specific needs. To ensure equal opportunities for all students and promote the highest possible degree of participation and autonomy, the Ce.N.Dis. provides support from the moment a student enters the university and throughout their studies, offering the following services:
Services Offered by Ce.N.Dis.
- individualized Treatment: Students with disabilities and neurodiversity can request adaptations for admission tests, and mediation with faculty to resolve critical issues, agree on exam and lecture adaptations, and adapt language tests.
- tutoring: Ce.N.Dis. offers students with disabilities and neurodiversity the opportunity to request a peer tutor, learning tutor, or teaching tutor.
- transport Service: Transport is guaranteed for students with disabilities who are enrolled in courses at the University of Palermo and reside in Palermo and its province.
- support for International Exchanges: Ce.N.Dis. can support students going on an international exchange by facilitating preliminary contact with foreign universities to understand the services and adaptations available for exams and lectures, thereby helping them make a better choice. Incoming students can also contact Ce.N.Dis. to specify their needs and evaluate possible exam adaptations and available services.
- educational Materials and Technological Supports: Students can request educational materials, aids, and technological supports from Ce.N.Dis. to better attend lectures, take exams, and ensure productive individual study. For example, they can use concept maps, digital texts, educational materials in accessible formats, digital recorders, PCs with spell checkers, voice synthesis software, dedicated educational software, and other suitable supports.
- LIS Interpreting and Communication Assistance Service: Students can use an LIS (Italian Sign Language) interpreter to follow lectures, conferences, and cultural events. A Communication Assistant is also available to act as a linguistic-communicative mediator, offering support with lesson content through both LIS and integrated communication methods. This service can also be requested to facilitate peer interaction and group work in classes that use active and participatory methods or in workshops.
Contacts:
CeNDIs