Assoc ProfessorAlessia Paccagnini

Teaching is a central pillar of my academic identity and a core motivation of my work at University College Dublin. I am deeply committed to delivering rigorous, research-led, and inclusive teaching that equips students with strong quantitative skills, critical thinking abilities, and confidence in applying econometric methods to real-world economic and financial problems.

My teaching excellence has been recognised through multiple awards and distinctions, including the Dean’s List of Outstanding Teachers Award at the UCD College of Business for courses taught during 2023/2024 and 2024/2025, as well as a College of Business Teaching Award. These recognitions reflect sustained excellence in course design, delivery, and student engagement across undergraduate, master’s, and PhD levels.

I teach core quantitative modules such as Financial Econometrics and Econometrics of Financial Markets, where I combine theoretical rigour with applied learning. My pedagogical approach emphasises active learning, real-time feedback, and the use of real data and empirical research questions. I regularly integrate interactive quizzes, applied projects, and collaborative assessments that help students bridge the gap between econometric theory and practical implementation in finance, policy, and research settings.

Inclusivity and accessibility are fundamental to my teaching philosophy. I hold Digital and Facilitator Badges in Universal Design for Teaching & Learning and actively apply Universal Design principles in my modules by offering multiple modes of engagement, flexible learning materials, recorded content, and diverse assessment formats. I also serve as a Facilitator, supporting colleagues at UCD and other Irish universities in designing inclusive and student-centred learning environments.

In recent years, I have further innovated my teaching by integrating responsible uses of AI and digital tools to support coding, model interpretation, and student confidence in quantitative subjects. These innovations are underpinned by pedagogical training, continuous reflection, and student feedback, ensuring that technology enhances learning while maintaining academic integrity.

Through my teaching, curriculum leadership, and commitment to inclusive education, I aim not only to transmit technical knowledge, but also to inspire students to engage critically with data, economics, and policy — and to support diverse cohorts of learners in succeeding in quantitatively demanding disciplines.