The goal of CHEDARacademy is to train professionals who can combine humanistic knowledge with technological expertise through a sustainability-centred approach
CHEDARacademy represents the educational dimension of the Research and Advanced Training Centre within the CHEDAR – Cultural HEritage Digitalization And Resilience project.
Education is not viewed as a standalone pillar, but rather as a cross-cutting dimension that connects and reinforces the four pillars of CHEDAR, contributing integrally to its activities in research, innovation, cultural enhancement, and knowledge transfer.
CHEDARacademy fosters the development of advanced, interdisciplinary skills in the fields of documentation, 3D digitization, material diagnostics, and environmental analysis. It integrates artificial intelligence tools to support effective conservation strategies—particularly through the creation of Heritage Digital Twins: interoperable digital tools designed to support the sustainable long-term management of heritage.
CHEDARacademy operates within a broad network of universities, research centres, higher education institutes for art, music and dance (AFAM institutes), and other international partners, including ICOMOS Italia and CIPA Heritage Documentation.
CHEDARacademy’s educational objective is to develop new professional competencies capable of addressing current and future challenges in the safeguarding, conservation and enhancement of cultural heritage. Particular focus is given to the digital transition, sustainability risks, and the creative reuse of data.
In today's world, education plays a pivotal role in facilitating knowledge transfer between the realms of research, professional practice, and local communities. CHEDARacademy is helping to define new professional profiles that are to support and lead the digital transformation of cultural heritage in an inclusive, thoughtful, and responsible manner.
The training offered by CHEDARacademy is designed to:
● Bridge the gap between research and practice by facilitating the transfer of knowledge and innovation among universities, research centers, professionals, and cultural institutions;
● Support preventive conservation and resilience policies by providing tools to address the risks associated with natural disasters, conflicts, environmental degradation, and climate change;
● Promote the thoughtful use of digital technologies by encouraging the adoption of tools such as Digital Twins, 3D modelling, artificial intelligence, advanced diagnostics, and immersive technologies;
● Promote local development and strengthen cultural cohesion by enhancing territorial skills through an inclusive, participatory, and collaborative approach.
Special attention is given to countries at the crossroads of cultures in the broader Mediterranean region, which is also one of the most vulnerable areas on the planet and where targeted, shared, and sustainable interventions are more necessary than ever. Through its international and interdisciplinary network, CHEDARacademy positions itself as a laboratory for educational innovation.
EDUCATIONAL OBJECT
At CHEDARacademy training is not just about transmitting knowledge; it's about collaboratively constructing visions and solutions for the future of cultural heritage
EDUCATIONAL OFFER
CHEDARacademy offers specialized, interdisciplinary and accessible training opportunities for students, researchers, professionals in the cultural and technological sectors, public officials and institutional stakeholders.
The program is structured in flexible and complementary formats ranging from Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) to webinars and intensive in-person programs such as Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter Schools. These programs can be adapted to participants' experience levels, professional goals, and learning pace.
MOOCS
(MASSIVE OPEN ONLINE COURSES)
These online courses, accessible remotely, are designed to provide both foundational and advanced theoretical knowledge. Structured into thematic modules with video lessons, self-assessment quizzes, and digital badges, the MOOCs cover six core areas at the intersection of cultural heritage and digital transformation:
CULTURAL HERITAGE & DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
Explores the lifecycle of digital resources from 3D documentation and the creation of Digital Twins to the ethical use of data and the application of artificial intelligence to enhance heritage and cultural transmission.
CONSERVATION & SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES
Focuses on diagnostic tools and innovative techniques for conserving materials such as stone, wood, and earthen architecture, while promoting sustainable approaches and risk prevention strategies.
RISKS, CRISIS & RESILIENCE
Offers methods and tools to assess and address risks —natural, human-made, or conflict-related — that threaten heritage, with a focus on resilience and management in fragile contexts.
COMMUNICATION, INTERPRETATION & INCLUSION
Examines new frontiers in heritage communication: digital storytelling, inclusive museums, cultural accessibility, and co-curation practices that engage diverse audiences through participatory approaches.
POLICY, WORLD HERITAGE & RIGHTS
Addresses heritage governance topics, with particular attention to managing Outstanding Universal Value (OUV), digital rights, intellectual property, and the ethics of documentation.
INNOVATION IN MATERIALS & TECHNOLOGIES
Presents emerging technological solutions, such as 3D printing and augmented reality, applied to conservation, reproduction, education, and community engagement.
WEBINARS
Online training sessions are led by national and international experts, focusing on in-depth exploration of specific topics, case studies, and best practices in conservation, management, and technological innovation. They provide a flexible and accessible opportunity to develop your professional skills and encourage discussion between researchers, practitioners, and institutions.
SPRING / SUMMER / AUTUMN / WINTER SCHOOLS
These in-person programs last from 6 to 15 days and are characterized by an intensive, multidisciplinary approach. Organized in collaboration with academic and cultural institutions, they explore emerging topics through hands-on workshops, practical learning activities, and guided visits to cultural sites. Participants engage in field experimentation, interact with experts, and follow structured learning paths in real-world contexts.