Aims of the course are: To introduce students to the fundamental concepts of demography and provide them with a basic analytical toolkit for conducting quantitative demographic analysis. To enhance understanding of the development of the Italian population, with particular attention to regional disparities and historical discontinuities. To explore the relationship between demographic and social change, and to identify the underlying driving forces.

Knowledge of basic statistical concepts is advisable

- Basic demographic methods. - Toolbox of a demographer needed to measure and interpret population change and interrelated changes; - Causes and consequences of population change in Italy, in the global context; - Overview of policy responses to the major challenges of the demographic change.

Textbooks (mandatory): 1. Blangiardo, G. Elementi di demografia (2025). Il Mulino. New edition 2. Livi Bacci, M. Storia minima della popolazione del mondo (1998). Il Mulino. Additional reading (books, journal articles, and statistical reports) indicated on Moodle.

The course will include a combination of traditional lectures and interactive in-class debates. In particular, discussions and debates will focus on selected demographic topics and will be supported by readings from reputable demographic journals. The instructor will also adopt innovative teaching and learning methodologies, including Inquiry-Based Learning, Problem-Based Learning, Peer Education, Flipped Classroom These approaches aim to foster critical thinking, active participation, and collaborative learning among students.

For students who regularly attend the course (with no more than three absences throughout its duration), the final grade will be calculated as follows: Group presentation and collaborative work – 20% Individual oral examination – 70% Active participation during classes – 10% The final grade will be determined as a weighted average of the above components. For students who do not meet the attendance requirement (i.e., more than three absences), the assessment will consist of: A written essay on a topic assigned by the instructor on the day of the exam; An oral examination covering the full course content, including the two required textbooks. Students unable to attend classes regularly—regardless of the reason—are strongly advised to contact the instructor at the beginning of the course. Under no circumstances may non-attending students participate in the intermediate assessments reserved for regularly attending students.

Interest for the discipline. Quality and appropriateness of the research proposal. Grade at the exam.