The SYNAPSE Project partner IUL – Università Telematica degli Studi is an Italian online university specialising in educational innovation, distance learning methodologies, and the integration of digital technologies into teaching and learning. IUL advances research in systems thinking, critical thinking, psychopedagogy, gamification, and sustainability, while contributing to the development of innovative educational practices across Europe and beyond.
Their team involved in the SYNAPSE Project includes:
Stefano Armenia – Associate Professor and Project Coordinator
Stefano Armenia is an expert in systems thinking, digital transformation, and sustainability, with extensive experience coordinating European-funded projects. As the overall Project Coordinator for SYNAPSE, he leads the strategic implementation of the project, drawing on his background in business engineering, systems dynamics, and innovation management.
Rosa Palladino – Associate Professor and Senior Researcher
Rosa Palladino is an academic and qualified lawyer whose research focuses on knowledge management, innovation, responsible governance, and corporate sustainability. As a Senior Researcher within SYNAPSE, she contributes to project management while supporting research and the development of innovative educational approaches.
Immacolata Messuri – Associate Professor and Senior Researcher
Immacolata Messuri specialises in vocational guidance, adult education, and pedagogical innovation. With extensive experience leading European-funded initiatives, she contributes to the SYNAPSE Project as a Senior Researcher, supporting research activities and the development of educational methodologies.
Thomas De Angelis – Researcher and Assistant Project Manager
Thomas De Angelis is a researcher specialising in digital transformation and human-centred technologies. As Assistant Project Manager and Researcher for SYNAPSE, he supports project coordination, research activities, and the implementation of systems thinking methodologies across the partnership.
When asked why the SYNAPSE Project is important to the institution, their response was:
“The SYNAPSE Project aligns closely with IUL’s mission to advance educational innovation through research, digital transformation, and interdisciplinary learning. As project coordinator, SYNAPSE provides an opportunity to further strengthen IUL’s expertise in systems thinking and innovative pedagogical approaches while fostering collaboration with leading European and African institutions. The project also expands IUL’s international network, promotes intercultural knowledge exchange, and contributes to the development of educators and facilitators equipped to address complex global challenges through inclusive and sustainable education.”