Digital Transformation of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education Institutions: A Case Study of the University of Naples “Parthenope”

This paper investigates the digital transformation journey of the University of Naples Parthenope in Italy through an in-depth qualitative case study. The analysis adopts a holistic socio-technical perspective encompassing strategic, cultural, structural, human resource, and technological dimensions across the key activities of teaching, research, and operations. The study addresses a gap in current knowledge by developing an integrative digital transformation framework for universities grounded in the literature. Data collected from questionnaires about the adoption of Digital Technologies as well as innovative teaching formats revealed multi-level barriers and enablers influencing the transformation process. Key findings indicate that developing new digitally enabled models of teaching enhanced productivity and competitiveness. However, realizing the full potential of emerging technologies requires forward-thinking leadership, organizational agility, new capabilities, and a supportive culture. This study contributes original empirical insights and an actionable framework for leveraging technologies strategically to enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of universities during a period of rapid digital change. This pilot study will be extended in the future by delving into the more generic role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the university process.