Educational Sciences

Mission

We aim to understand pedagogical, didactical, and psychological processes that contribute to effective and inclusive learning and teaching across all life stages (lifelong learning). Our focus is on individual learners, groups of learners, the learning environment (e.g., physical/online, educational transitions), the social context (e.g., teachers, peers, family), and their interactions. We strive to identify optimal conditions for learning and performance that create equitable educational opportunities and maximize educational outcomes for all learners. Our commitment to making meaningful contributions to educational practice is reflected in our strong (inter)national ties with educational partners, applied focus, and theory-driven efforts to enhance practical knowledge. 

Research

Our interdisciplinary team of Pedagogy and Psychology scientists focuses on developing practical applications and theories concerning effective, innovative, and inclusive lifelong learning environments. Research themes include:

• technology-enhanced learning (e.g., AI), 
• cognitive load management in online/blended learning environments, 
• reading development, 
• diversity and equity, 
• accessible (higher) education, 
• psychosocial, social-emotional, and socio-cultural processes in the school context. 

Using innovative and advanced (statistical) methods such as social network analysis, eye tracking, qualitative participatory methods, and multilevel SEM, we identify underlying mechanisms (how it works) in addition to educational outcomes (what works) and its influencing factors (when and for whom it works).

Click on a research topic to learn more about our research:

• Effective and Efficient Learning Environments
• Opportunity disparity in education
• Digital education opportunities and implication
• Educational programs media literacy and opportunities artificial intelligence (Movez Lab)
• Human cognition and our flexible knowledge

Education

Our team is represented in three educational programmes: the Psychology programme (including Master Educational Psychology), the Pedagogical Sciences programme (including Master Educational Sciences, Academic Teacher Training track, and Pre-Master), and the Educational Master in Primary Education (EMPO). 

In all programmes, with our education we aim to educate professionals with knowledge, values, and critical and analytical skills supported by strong professional identities. Our impactful education ensures that students start their future professional careers well-prepared, enabling them to make significant contributions to solving complex societal issues in education (e.g., AI and equity in education).

Impact

We prioritise creating societal impact through research and education, actively bridging the gap between science and practice. Our strong connections span partners from practice (e.g., schools, publishers, supporting services), policy, universities, and research institutes in the Netherlands and beyond. We continuously expand our scientific and societal network through diverse collaborations, including (but not limited to) co-creation in research projects, advising educational institutions and policymakers, employing innovative communication means, educational field trips, and providing workshops and educational programs for teachers and school managers. These partnerships, integral to both research and education, enable us to make a genuine impact in the educational field.