Research

The Education in Culture research unit examines the complex interplay between education and culture by investigating a wide range of issues concerning upbringing, training and care in formal, non-formal and information settings, mainly from historical, philosophical, theoretical and intercultural perspectives. Our areas of expertise include:

National and Global Education Systems
Since the establishment of national educational systems in the nineteenth century, schooling has become a global ideal as well as reality for most children. Our studies addressing national education systems include studies into the expansion of primary school systems, and the changing conditions of the teaching profession. Of particular interest is also the emergence of special education, comprehensive school reform, the development of secondary education (including the issue of co-education), vocational education, adult education and the distinction between public and private education. Studies also explore the transnational dimensions of these developments, highlighting the role of cross-border influences and the emergence of regional educational spaces. Our research addresses political debate, legislation, and educational practices from national, regional, local, and comparative perspectives, revealing how global and regional forces intersect with local educational realities. 

Well-being, Care, and Suicide Prevention
Education and social-cultural transfer also take place beyond schools and classrooms. In our expertise group, research examines youths’ mental health, youth literature, youth and media,  youth movements, and youth policy. A key topic concerns the social and care aspects of suicide and suicide prevention. We have also contributed to government reports on violence in youth care and unmarried motherhood in recent history. Research in this strand has, for example, dealt with issues of sexual diversity, ethnicity, migration, national identity. Studies have also dealt with the development of scientific knowledge about children at risk in child psychiatry, child psychology and special education studies, next to the development of ideas and practices in youth care.

Education, Knowledge, and Technology
Educational practices are shaped by evolving socio-technical assemblages of knowledge and technology. Our research investigates how new technologies are co-produced with educational norms and practices. Examples include testing systems and AI-driven platforms, which shape conceptions of learning, ability, and intelligence. We analyze how pedagogical theories evolve alongside new technologies, and how digital platforms configure learning environments and formative assessment. By tracing these socio-technical entanglements, we offer critical insights into the opportunities and challenges posed by emerging educational technologies.

Education and Citizenship
Education promotes citizenship by fostering civic responsibility, belonging, and participation. Our research examines how policies, curricula, and practices support nation-building, social integration, and democratic engagement. We explore how education navigates cultural, political, and ideological tensions, as well as the dilemmas of inclusion, exclusion, autonomy, and control. By analyzing how civic ideals and subjectivities are formed and contested within educational institutions, we explore the power dynamics on citizenship education in diverse and evolving contexts.