Special Session 10

SPECIAL SESSION #10

Mario Covarrubias Rodriguez

Department of Mechanical Engineering, Politecnico di Milano

• mario.covarrubias@polimi.it

Maria Concetta Carruba

Department of Human Sciences, Università Telematica Pegaso

• mariaconcetta.carruba@unipegaso.it

Augmented reality and Virtual reality are transforming also the way we learn making learning processes more interactive, accessible, collaborative, and funny, too. Nowadays, there is an ever-growing selection of Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality applications with a specific area of Accessibility that allows us in using them for Special Educational Needs. Teachers and parents must explore several options to determine the most appropriate apps for their special learners.

The main goal of this Special Session is related to hosting papers in this interesting field.

How is extended reality transforming Special Education?
How can extended reality be used to promote inclusive education and a new, more inclusive way to learn?
How is it possible to use VR and AR to promote training for people with disabilities to improve their competencies useful not only in the classroom but also at work and in society in general?

These questions will guide participants to reflect on the possibility to promote a "technology for humans" that becomes a tool for social equity.

Mario Covarrubias is Associate Professor at the Department of Mechanical Engineering of Politecnico di Milano. Author of more than 100 scientific publications in international journals and international conferences. He teaches Computer Aided Design and Mechanical Prototyping in the Mechanical Engineering master degree program. Leads the Virtual Prototyping and Augmented Reality Laboratory at Politecnico di Milano, Lecco Campus. Coordinator of weekly activities with different local associations at Lecco Campus.

Maria Concetta Carruba is a Researcher in Special Education at Università Telematica Pegaso, Italy, and Professor in the area of Special Education, Media Education, and Technology for inclusion. Her main research areas, on which she has published books and scientific articles, deal with Technology for Inclusion and Well-being, including for people with disabilities and learning disabilities. She's involved in the ASUMIE European Project Erasmus Plus and international teams in the field of Technology and Special Education.