At the 2025 Annual AATI Conference at Princeton University, Dr. Mattavelli contributed meaningfully to the ongoing dialogue around innovation in Italian language education. She organized a very well-attended roundtable titled “Challenges and Innovations in Italian Language Programs Direction,” co-sponsored with the American Association of University Supervisors and Coordinators (AAUSC). This session brought together program directors and educators to explore the evolving challenges of leading Italian language programs, from administrative complexities to pedagogical innovation. In her presentation, “From Numbers to Nuances: Leading Italian Language Programs Today,” she reflected on the shifting responsibilities of language program directors and emphasized the importance of the AAUSC in supporting professional growth and collaboration.
Dr. Mattavelli also co-organized the session “Ungrading: The Key To Student Retention In The University Italian Classroom?” which sparked vibrant discussions about the role of assessment in student motivation and retention. Her paper, “Unquizzing Our Students: Alternative Assessment Practices in the Italian Classroom,” explored ungrading as a transformative pedagogical strategy. She highlighted how moving away from traditional grading can reduce student anxiety, foster deeper engagement, and refocus attention on learning and progress. Both presentations were met with enthusiasm and underscored the importance of pedagogical research in the field of Italian language education.
