The Italian Collegi Universitari di Merito and the Spanish Colegios Mayores Universitarios: A comparative analysis.

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Abstract

University collegiate residence halls are closely linked to the birth of the great European universities and played a crucial role in forming the cultural, political, and ecclesiastical elite for centuries. However, the evolution of these institutions in Europe has been diverse, varying their importance in the different educational systems. This research compares two institutions: the Italian Collegi di Merito and the Spanish Colegios Mayores Universitarios. Through analyzing primary and secondary documentary sources, a comparison is made around four dimensions: legislative, demographic, formative, and differential value. The results affirm the relevance and pertinence of these institutions in the European context of Higher Education, enrich the educational practices of these institutions, and offer new study prospects for research on the academic potential of university accommodation. In conclusion, Italian and Spanish university colleges provide a space for resistance to the excessive professionalization of Higher Education.