Rethinking the University in the Age of Artificial Intelligence a cura di Marina De Rossi, Ettore Bolisani, Carlo Mariconda
No. 1 (2026): Special Issue. Rethinking the University in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
Bridging Digital Education Hubs and Teaching and Learning Centres
Abstract
The establishment of Italy’s Digital Education Hubs has accelerated the development of digital infrastructures to support more flexible and accessible higher education. This paper argues that technological innovation alone is insufficient to improve teaching and learning, highlighting the complementary role of Teaching and Learning Centres in promoting faculty development, pedagogical innovation, and institutional change. Drawing on the University of Trieste’s experience within the ALMA project, it explores how the integration of digital infrastructures, educational expertise, and organisational support can foster sustainable innovation. The paper also discusses emerging challenges related to governance, professional roles, and the long-term development of teaching and learning ecosystems.
References
- Bates A. W. (2022). Teaching in a digital age: Guidelines for designing teaching and learning (3rd ed.). Tony Bates Associates Ltd.
- Laurillard D. (2012). Teaching as a design science: Building pedagogical patterns for learning and technology. Routledge.
- Lotti A., Crea G., Garbarino S., Picasso F., & Scellato E. (a cura di) (2021). Faculty development e innovazione didattica universitaria. Genova: Genova University Press.
- Lotti A., Serbati A., Doria B., Picasso F., & Felisatti E. (2022). Teaching and learning centre: Analysis of key elements. Formazione & Insegnamento, 20(2): 75-88. Doi: 10.7346/-fei-XX-02-22_06.
- Selwyn N. (2014). Digital technology and the contemporary university: Degrees of digitization. Routledge.
