Science and practice
An integral part of developing social education as a discipline is the investigation of various social phenomena using the correct methodology. Social education is working hard to build a solid theoretical basis, which cannot be achieved without a great deal of research and analysis. Research is designed as both qualitative and quantitative. Data collection, analysis, and interpretation are performed using methods chosen with regards to the specifics of the phenomena being investigated. Research results are then published in journals or monographs.
Common themes
- socially disadvantaged individuals and groups
- leisure time
- multicultural and drama education
- diversity in schools, diversity of school professions and roles
Students involvement
The Department frequently involves students in its research activities. They take part in investigating social issues and contribute to joint publications. This does not concern only Ph.D. students, but also students of master's and bachelor's programmes. They can publish their findings in their theses as well as periodicals and publications being prepared by their supervisors and consultants. These opportunities are greatly stimulate student growth.
Research environment
Together with changes in the society, new target groups emerge, social services become more specialised, the school system develops, and education begins to appreciate the potential of leisure time. The emergence of new target groups (at present various migrating communities), requires effective approaches to their activation and support.
Research methodology
- phenomenological analysis
- grounded theory
- narrative methodology
- semantic methods
- meaning constitution analysis (MCA)
- content analysis
- discourse analysis
- visual methodology
The department is also producing a substantial number of publications, which address both practical and theoretical aspects of social education. These books are written for the academic community as well as for the broader audience of social educators or other professionals in the field.
