Increasing engagement and student participation in Higher Education: insights from the University of Pisa during COVID-19

Abstract

[EN] The emergency distance learning methods adopted to face the pandemic are connected to some inherent problems which concern the lack of social aspects, interactions, and motivation. These and other frequent issues threaten to stop the opportunities offered by the widespread use of educational technology. This paper examines how the Higher Education Institutions adapted to the evolution of the pandemic, compared to relevant insights from University of Pisa gathered during the academic year 2020/21.Focusing on the communicative and socio-emotional aspects of the didactic event, we propose engagement tools – real-time interaction applications designed to increase active learning and motivation – as a feasible solution that might tackle some of the emerged teaching-learning issues. In this context, it appears that the potential of these versatile and easy-to-apply tools has not been fully exploited. Specific teacher training actions are therefore suggested.