Scholarship of teaching and learning per una didattica universitaria di qualità

This article introduces the concept of SoTL, taking into consideration its evolution in the last 25 years within the context of educational research at international level. Beyond the definitions, it is highlighted the difficult situation regarding actual practices and concepts of good teaching. This is often linked to traditions of staff development where research has a higher status with regard to teaching. The article focuses next the policy context at European, International and Italian level; within this context, it is evident the urgent need of rethinking the quality of teaching. Drawing on this situation, we contend that SoTL can have momentum against the processes of response to crisis and institutional reforms in Higher Education, for it provides the basis to promote quality teaching (and the role of scholars) as a key factor of quality and innovation in Higher Education. Finally, it is also pointed out that there is a long way to go with regard to the implementation of SoTL as strategy, overcoming reluctance both at European and Italian level.