Power, inequality and community

The research group's overarching goal is to be a driving force for robust research that contributes to addressing complex challenges in contemporary (welfare) society. Our research encompasses studies of the complex interrelations between power relations, socioeconomic, social, and cultural inequalities, and their impact on individuals' and groups' lived experiences and perceived opportunities. We also focus on how the teaching profession's role and identity are influenced by these dynamics, and how we can strengthen teachers' capacity to address the identified challenges.

Our Research Group's 10 Thematic Focus Areas 

Belonging, Identity, and Community: 

We explore how individuals and groups construct their identity and belonging within various communities. This includes studies of social categories and identity politics, and how these influence individuals' lives and interactions. We utilize qualitative methods to understand the subjective experiences of belonging and identity. 

Cultural studies: We study various cultural expressions and practices, and analyze how culture influences people's lives and interactions. Our research includes ethnographic studies, cultural-historical analyses, and discourse analyses to uncover the complex dynamics of cultural processes. 

​​Social Justice and Opportunities: We examine the premises for just and inclusive societies for all, with a particular focus on marginalized groups. We study structural inequalities and contribute knowledge to counteract them.

Inclusion of Children and Young People: All children and young people (as well as their parents) have, in principle, the right to the same opportunities to participate and thrive in kindergarten, school, and the local community. We study how practices of this unfold and what hinders and promotes equal inclusion.

Didactic Practices and Communication: We analyze effective didactic strategies and communication methods to promote learning and understanding in various contexts. We examine how teaching can be adapted to different student groups and learning styles, and study the use of technology and digital tools to improve learning outcomes.

Intercultural Teacher Competence: We investigate how teachers can strengthen their competence to create inclusive and stimulating learning environments for students from diverse sociocultural backgrounds. We work with the goal of improving teaching strategies and pedagogical tools to promote intercultural understanding and respect in the classroom.

The Historical Construction of Inequality: We analyze how different understandings of inequality have been constructed and shaped over time. We study historical narratives and discourses that have contributed to maintaining inequality, and promote critical thinking about the roots and consequences of inequality through historical and discourse analytical methods.

Power and Power Critique: We examine power structures and the exercise of power in various contexts, and analyze how power relations affect individuals, groups, and societies. We promote critical analysis of power relations to promote social change, and apply discourse-theoretical perspectives to analyze how language and discourse shape our understanding of the world and social realities.

Refugees in a Societal and Educational Perspective: We study the experiences and challenges of refugees when encountering Norwegian society and the education system. We analyze integration policies and their effects on refugees, and develop recommendations to improve integration processes and educational opportunities for refugees.

Group-Based Prejudice and Discrimination: We illuminate and generate knowledge about group-based prejudice and discrimination in various societal areas. We study how these phenomena affect individuals and groups, and develop strategies to counteract prejudice and discrimination through both theoretical and empirical studies.

These thematic focus areas reflect our commitment to understanding and addressing complex social phenomena through an interdisciplinary and critical approach.

Head of Research Group

The research group members have expertise in:

•   Anthropology
•   History
•   Sociology
•   Political Science
•   Pedagogy
•   Sociolinguistics
•   Multilingualism and Norwegian as a Second Language

We recognize that research-based knowledge must be accessible to all, not just researchers and academics. Therefore, we emphasize:

•  Communicating our research results in a clear and understandable manner to a wide audience.
•  Developing learning materials and resources based on our research.
•  Collaborating with teachers, school leaders, politicians, and other stakeholders to ensure knowledge sharing.

Research projects

Network

Research program

This research group is a part of the research program Sustainability, Participation and Diversity.