Professionalization and Faculty Development: Pedagogy’s role in the contemporary university system

Abstract

The article examines the transformations that have reshaped the Italian university system over the past decades, with a specific focus on the pedagogical implications and the training of educational professions. After outlining the critical debate on the university int its relationship with the labor market, the paper highlights the role of pedagogy both in reshaping curricula and in supporting the evolution of professional profiles of teachers and educators. The finale section discusses Faculty Development initiatives and Teaching and Learning Centres, identified as strategic spaces for innovation and professional dialogue. The study underlines the importance of pedagogical research as a crucial resource for interpreting current changes and for guiding the future of higher education.