I believe economics and public policy are best understood when connected to real-world experience. My teaching emphasizes conceptual understanding, critical thinking, and practical application, helping students connect economic theory and policy ideas to contemporary issues and real-world decision-making.
Drawing on more than three decades of experience in global finance and leadership roles spanning Boston, London, Hong Kong, and Tokyo, I seek to help students understand not only how markets and institutions function, but also how economic decisions affect individuals, communities, businesses, and societies.
Current Teaching
Suffolk University
Principles of Microeconomics (EC 101)
Introduction to markets, incentives, competition, consumer behavior, firm decision-making, and public policy.
Principles of Macroeconomics (EC 102)
Examination of economic growth, inflation, unemployment, monetary policy, fiscal policy, and the performance of national economies.
Applied Statistics (STATS 250)
Applied statistical reasoning emphasizing data interpretation, decision-making, hypothesis testing, and real-world applications.
Student evaluations consistently highlight the use of real-world examples, accessibility outside the classroom, enthusiasm for the subject matter, and the ability to explain complex economic concepts in practical and understandable ways.
Selected Student Feedback
“The examples used in class helped make difficult ideas easier to understand.”
“The professor was extremely helpful and easy to talk to.”
“The professor really cares and gets into the lecture.”
“Real world examples made concepts much easier to understand.”
Teaching Philosophy
My teaching philosophy is grounded in three principles:
Conceptual Understanding
Students should understand why economic relationships exist, not simply memorize formulas or procedures.
Real-World Relevance
Economic and policy concepts become meaningful when connected to current events, public debates, business decisions, and practical examples.
Lifelong Learning
The purpose of education is not merely acquiring knowledge, but developing the ability to evaluate evidence, ask thoughtful questions, and continue learning throughout one’s life.
Teaching Innovation
In addition to traditional economics and statistics instruction, I am actively exploring how artificial intelligence is reshaping higher education and economic practice. At Suffolk University, I have incorporated AI-related discussions into classroom instruction and am participating in initiatives focused on helping faculty adapt teaching methods to an AI-enhanced learning environment.
My approach emphasizes conceptual understanding, critical thinking, and responsible AI use, helping students learn not only how to use emerging technologies but also how to evaluate their implications for business, public policy, and society.
Current Projects
- Faculty Community of Practice on Artificial Intelligence and Higher Education
- Development of course concepts related to Economics in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
- Research and public writing on AI, economics, public policy, and society
Areas of Teaching Interest
In addition to the courses listed above, I am interested in teaching and developing courses related to:
- Globalization and International Trade
- International Political Economy
- Economics and Public Policy
- The World Trade Organization and Global Trade Governance
- Economic Justice and Public Policy
- Economics in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
- Humanistic Capitalism
- Ethics, Markets, and Public Policy
- Comparative Economic Systems
- Globalization, Markets, and Society
International Perspective
Having lived and worked in Boston, London, Hong Kong, and Tokyo, I bring an international perspective to discussions of economics, globalization, governance, and public policy.
As a citizen of the United States, Italy, and the United Kingdom, I have a particular interest in international education, comparative public policy, and cross-cultural engagement.
Future Teaching Opportunities
Beginning Fall 2027, I welcome opportunities for visiting lectureships, visiting scholar appointments, guest lectures, and related academic engagements.
Roggiero J. Spillere 