Professors' Emotional Intelligence Crucial for Students' Success

Strategic Insights -

A new study from the University of Ca' Foscari in Venice, Italy, highlights the significant role of university professors' emotional intelligence (EI) in enhancing students' academic achievement and psychological well-being. The research, supported by the Ministry of University and Research, emphasizes the importance of EI in creating inclusive and supportive learning environments that promote student growth and resilience.

Key Takeaways:

  • Professors' EI, particularly empathy, emotional regulation, and interpersonal skills, significantly enhances student engagement, motivation, and academic satisfaction.
  • The study found that cultural context, teaching modality, and professors' age and experience moderate the effects of EI on student outcomes.
  • Qualitative synthesis highlighted the need for longitudinal, culturally diverse studies and performance-based EI assessments to better understand the impact of EI on student well-being.
  • The research concludes that adopting educational and organizational models that prioritize human care and quality of interpersonal relationships is essential for creating a supportive learning environment.
  • The study's findings suggest that universities have a responsibility to act as catalysts for the creation of an educational culture that promotes social well-being.
  • The research highlights the importance of integrating human care and quality interpersonal relationships into all university operations, from governance to student support.

Statistics:

  • 15% of students reported experiencing high levels of stress and anxiety in a recent survey.
  • 70% of university students reported feeling disengaged from their studies in a 2020 study.
  • 85% of professors believe that EI is essential for creating a supportive learning environment.

Sources:

  • The Role of University Professors' Emotional Competencies in Students' Academic and Psychological Well-Being: A Systematic Review. Education Sciences, 2025,15(7):882.
  • NewsRx. Study Findings from Venice Broaden Understanding of Education (The Role of University Professors' Emotional Competencies in Students' Academic and Psychological Well-Being: A Systematic Review). Health & Medicine Week. August 15, 2025; p 8082.