Diverse competence is our strength - Educational Work

- We have a large number of staff and a broad research profile, says Michael. This means that we have a solid knowledge of our disciplines and cover a wide range of areas, which is an advantage. Diverse competence is our strength.

The fact that the university is small yet conducts comprehensive research also facilitates supervision of doctoral students. There is often someone with knowledge and expertise within the doctoral student’s field of study. The department has long experience of conducting research and the environment is open and welcoming, which makes it easy to become part of the group and ongoing projects.

- Especially for young researchers, says Michael, who describes the working environment as good. There is a nice atmosphere. Everyone does their job and is reliable and knowledgeable. We care about each other. It is simply a well-functioning department!

Michael also describes management as caring. This creates a friendly and positive atmosphere where staff are encouraged to be an active part of the department.

Dedicated coworkers

At the same, the working environment is flexible. Thanks to various initiatives and collaborations with other universities in Sweden and the Nordic countries, there are established international relations. Researchers are able to supervise doctoral students and students in other countries and thus make important contacts for future studies. It is a way of exchanging knowledge and competence and provides quality assurance for research and education at the department. 

- Gaining insight into how other universities organise their third-cycle courses and study programmes is important, says Michael. It gives us the opportunity to develop and become even better at what we already know.

Maintaining a high standard

And development is happening. Both internally in the team and thanks to the progress that is taking place at societal level as well. Conducting research that reflects reality and being able to influence the way education is applied in practice is one of the most important aims of the department. It also means that the university’s teacher education programmes maintain high standard, based on legitimate and current research. An attractive aspect for both students and future staff.