معرفی
Rita Balestrini is a Lecturer in the School of Literature and Languages at the University of Reading, where she teaches Italian language across all levels and serves as module convenor for Beginners Italian Language (IT1L1). She has been actively involved in curriculum development, including the design of advanced and beginner Italian modules, and promotes inclusive, student-centered pedagogical practices.
Her research centers on second language development and pedagogy, with a focus on Complex Dynamic Systems Theory and ecological approaches. She explores assessment and feedback cultures, anti-oppressive and transformative education, and the conceptualization of scholarship in higher education. Her work emphasizes student partnership in designing rubrics and feedback mechanisms to foster inclusive learning environments.
Rita has received multiple teaching excellence awards and secured funding for innovative pedagogical projects, including the use of OneNote Class Notebook in language teaching. She is actively engaged in scholarly communities through presentations at national conferences and membership in the British Association of Applied Linguistics (BAAL) and the Society for Research into Higher Education (SRHE).
- Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy
- MA in Applied Linguistics, University of Reading
- PGCert in Lifelong Learning, Università di Roma Tre
- PGCert in Teaching Italian as a Foreign Language, Università per Stranieri, Siena
- PGCert in Intercultural Education, Università di Roma Tre
- Laurea Magistrale in Lettere e Filosofia, Università La Sapienza, Rome
- ASILS Certificate in Teaching Italian, International House, Rome
Scientific Awards and Recognitions:
- Teaching and Learning Enhancement Projects (TLEP) funds (2022)
- Rewarding Excellence Award, School of Literature and Languages (2019, 2014)
- Teaching and Learning funds (2019)
- Teaching and Learning Development Fund (2016)
- Outstanding Contribution to Teaching Excellence Award (2016, group award)
- Rewarding Excellence Award, Department of Languages and European Studies (2013)
- Outstanding Contribution to Teaching and Learning Award (2008)
Rita Balestrini has led teaching innovation projects involving student partnerships and digital tools, contributing to staff development as coordinator of a cross-departmental Language Teaching Community of Practice. She has served in union roles advocating for improved working conditions and believes in education as a lifelong right. She practices principled eclecticism and an ecological approach to pedagogy, ensuring responsiveness to classroom dynamics and learner diversity.
She is currently investigating conceptualizations of 'scholarship' and 'research' in higher education and their impact on teaching practices. Though no formal publications are listed, her scholarly contributions are evident through funded projects, conference presentations, and curriculum innovations.
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