Stefania Pinnelli

Stefania Pinnelli is a Full Professor in the Department of Human and Social Sciences at the University of Salento, where she teaches Didactics and Special Pedagogy (sector M-PED 03). She is the scientific director of the Center for New Technologies for Disability and School Integration (CNTHI) and plays a key role in academic leadership through coordination of specialization and Master's programs in special education.

• Master’s in Educational Technology – University of Ulster, UK
• PhD in Multimedia Educational Technologies and Communication Systems – University of Calabria, Italy

Her research centers on inclusive education, with a focus on vulnerable learners, assistive technologies, and digital integration. She investigates human-machine interaction in learning environments, web accessibility, online addictions, and pedagogical approaches for students with specific learning disabilities (DSA) and giftedness (plusdotazione). Her work bridges theory and application in special and inclusive education.

Her recent publications reflect a strong thematic focus on assistive technologies, digital inclusion, and evidence-based interventions for students with special needs. The research spans educational technology, psychology, and social integration, emphasizing practical solutions for inclusive classrooms and smart learning environments.

Professional Memberships & Editorial Roles:

• Member, Italian Society of Educational Research (SIRD)
• Member, Italian Society of Pedagogy (SIPED)
• Member, Italian Society of Special Pedagogy (SIPES); Board Member (2017–2020)
• Scientific Committee, Sipes Journal (PensaMultimedia)
• Review Committee, Integrazione Scolastica e Sociale (Erickson)
• Member, Biòtopi Series Editorial Board (Liguori ed.)
• Referee, Universal Journal of Educational Research
• Chair Organizer, EULEARN Conference

She leads multiple research initiatives and funded projects, including Rare Box and Data System Platform for Smart Communities, and serves as a scientific consultant for CNR Lecce and EU-funded projects like ROBIN and Lecturio+. She also supervises doctoral candidates within the Doctoral School in Human and Social Studies and contributes to academic governance via ISUFI (Higher Institute for Interdisciplinary Education).

Laboratories & Research Centers:

• Scientific Director, Center for New Technologies for Disability and School Integration (CNTHI), University of Salento
• Head, Pedagogical Area, Third-Party Help Desk - SUD (services on SEN and DSA)