Higher Education Research Environment
Higher education research at MDU aims to highlight and understand factors that enhance teaching and learning in higher education – especially in a time when societal challenges must be met with knowledge and competence.
Our research covers several key areas, including educational design, teaching methods, assessment, digital learning environments, professional development, and social justice in higher education. By integrating both theoretical and practical perspectives, we generate knowledge that strengthens higher education pedagogy and contributes to improving educational quality.
We employ both qualitative and quantitative methods, sometimes in combination, to gain deeper insights into educational issues. Our research also enhances teachers' pedagogical expertise, and promotes professional development by systematically structuring and disseminating knowledge within and beyond academia. By engaging with national and international perspectives on higher education, we contribute to a knowledge-based practice of teaching and learning within higher education.
Four Thematic Areas
Current activities and projects revolve around these themes:
- Higher education's response to global urgent issues related to social, economic, and environmental sustainability.
- Developments in higher education in light of the expansion of AI.
- Exploring overarching university pedagogical issues with the goal of achieving quality in education. This includes academic leadership, issues of inclusion and academic literacy, pedagogical methods, and innovations.
- Focus on specific professional programs and related skills, such as engineering, teacher education, or health professions education.
Researchers in the environment
Our research environment is interdisciplinary, dynamic, and collaborative. Below are the researchers active within the Higher Education Research Environment – do not hesitate to contact us for research collaboration in the area.
Contact research leader Samuel Edelbring:
Research leader