Ascolta
Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze Edificio 15, Palermo, 90128, Italy.
e-Mail: alessia.dipaola01@unipa.it
Education
- Laurea magistrale in LINGUE E CULTURE MODERNE PER LA COMUNICAZIONE E LA COOPERAZIONE INTERNAZIONALE – LM 38
Current Positions
PhD Student in Health Promotion and Cognitive Sciences
PhD project title and a short abstract
PhD project title
Smart School: Exploring the Benefits of Digital Devices in Upper Secondary Education. A Study on Adolescent Learners
Abstract
The integration of digital technologies in secondary education is often framed as a strategic response to contemporary educational challenges. Nevertheless, empirical evidence and classroom experience indicate that the mere availability of digital devices does not necessarily translate into meaningful pedagogical innovation. Against this background, this study examines how pedagogically mediated and intentional uses of digital technologies may influence and support students’ motivation, autonomy, and transversal competences in upper secondary education.
The research is grounded in a mixed-methods design inspired by Design-Based Research (Bower, 2020) and employs both quantitative and qualitative data collection tools. These include questionnaires aligned with the European DigComp and DigCompEdu frameworks, classroom observations, and interviews with teachers and students. This approach enables the exploration of digital practices within authentic educational contexts and their potential impact on learning processes.
Rather than offering definitive answers, the study seeks to contribute to an informed and balanced reflection on the role of digital technologies in education, highlighting conditions under which they can become meaningful resources for teaching and learning.
Supervisor: Prof.ssa Elif Gulbay
Curriculum Vitae
Main research areas of interest
• Digital technologies in upper secondary education • Pedagogical integration of digital devices in classroom practices • Digital competence and digital citizenship (DigComp & DigCompEdu frameworks) • Technology-enhanced learning • Student motivation, autonomy, and transversal skills development • Inclusive education and reduction of the digital divide • Teacher digital competence and professional development • Critical perspectives on educational technology and digital well-being
Researcher ID
https://orcid.org/0009-0001-5541-9410
