Distance Learning: What Professors Think

During the days when campuses were closed to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus, Luiss made every effort to deliver instruction online. Professors, virtually connected with their students, were able to teach remotely.

Maria Isabella Leone, a Luiss Professor of Economics and Business Management, says that, at this particular time, “technology has helped overcome the obstacle of distance through a method that has proven to be efficient.”“I was pleasantly surprised to see that all the students, who are usually in the classroom, were also connected during the lesson on the platform.” The professor had already experimented with digital tools for virtual interaction with her students, and during the online class, she used them more frequently to further encourage interaction: “They made me realize that they were truly present.”Professor Leone also notes that “the students used the chat a lot, but I didn't find it intrusive. I accommodated their way of interacting by using it myself to see if they were following along. There was a mutual need for flexibility and continuous adaptation.”
 For the teacher, the human element and personal contact with the students remain two essential components.