As final project outcomes, the aim was to provide the public with an informative website featuring usability and accessibility features, available in Spanish, Italian, Spanish Sign Language (LSE), and Italian Sign Language (LIS), as well as a freely downloadable guide. The website and guide were intended to offer deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals, trainers, and anyone interested in English certifications clear and structured information on the most prestigious English certification systems currently available in the language market, preparation resources, accessibility measures included in these systems, and specific guidance for making informed decisions. Additionally, the project planned to conduct webinars and conferences where stakeholders could exchange information and experiences. The ultimate goal was to ensure that deaf individuals gained a better understanding of English certification programmes, their requirements, and the accessibility options available to them.
A language certification can be a decisive factor when applying for a job, accessing university studies, obtaining scholarships, or securing visas. However, the opportunities for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in accessing such certifications are limited by the actual existence of equal opportunities, primarily based on the provision of reasonable accommodations (e.g., exemption from assessed skills based on hearing, use of technological aids, or provision of sign language interpreters for instructions). Given the diversity of English certifications available in the current language market and the scattered information regarding their accessibility measures for deaf individuals, this project addressed the need for centralised, structured, and clear information on the possibilities these certifications can offer. All of this with the ultimate aim of facilitating informed decision-making for career or academic development based on knowledge.