Innovative education
Desirable education and effective education: then, now, and in the future
The research group translates research results into concrete solutions for education and contributes to knowledge and reflection on educational innovations.
The Innovative Education Research Group contributes to knowledge and reflection on educational innovations. These include: (1) Historical innovations, such as in the tradition of Dalton, Montessori, Jenaplan and Freinet, (2) Contemporary innovations, for example related to citizenship education and digital literacy, and (3) Future innovations, which are necessary, for example, because of the teacher shortage.
Our expertise
Traditional Innovative Education
We contribute to good education through our knowledge of the traditions, development and effectiveness of Dalton, Montessori, Jenaplan and Freinet education.
Future Learning Lab
We develop and critically test 'next practices' in education in and with the Future Learning Lab.
Applied Research
Through applied research, we work on professionalisation, provide practical solutions and develop visions. In this way, theory and practice work alongside each other to improve education.
Questions?
Please contact us!
Symen van der Zee
Our focus
Our research focuses on the education of students, the organisation and professionalisation of education, and educational technology. We examine the desirability and effectiveness of educational innovations.
Training
We aim to introduce the future generation to our culture, prepare them for a rapidly changing society and support them in the development of autonomy and the ability to make personal life choices themselves. What does this mean for education? We explore this from a historical and philosophical perspective and with a view to its effectiveness.
Organisation of education and professionalisation
The growing shortage of teachers and the resulting increase in inequality of opportunity have led to a growing demand for solutions. We look at how education can be organised differently. Our focus is on the professionalisation of teachers in response to the challenges posed by a different organisation of education.
Educational technology
As a research group, we investigate the possibilities and the ifs and buts of educational technology. We focus on their use and the professionalisation of (future) teachers in the area of 'next practices'. We examine how educational technology can make a valuable contribution to the education of pupils.
The Innovative Education Research Group has played a significant role in helping the Dutch Dalton Association to bridge the gap between academic research and practice. The publication of numerous studies in a series of books and other publications has boosted Dalton practice. In particular, the books Focus on Dalton and LEF.
How can we work together?
"Are you actively involved in the development, improvement and renewal of educational practices and technologies? Research can increase your knowledge and expertise. It can provide new insights and potentially contribute to positive changes in education. Contact us to explore possible collaboration opportunities."
(Symen van der Zee, Professor in Innovative Education, [email protected])
Our partners
Our researchers
Nico Rutten
Lecturer/Researcher - Education and Technology
06 - 1263 6001 [email protected] LinkedIn
Collaboration between the research group, the professional field and education
The Innovative Education Research Group collaborates closely with the associations of traditional innovative schools (NDV, NMV, NJPV and Freinet movement). We also share knowledge and co-operate with the Primary School Teacher Training Programme and the School of Education's Transfer Office.
We are also actively involved in the curriculum development of the School of Education. Especially in the areas of Montessori, Dalton and our research themes.
Related programmes
The research group participates in the following programmes:
- Full-time Primary School Teacher Training Programme
- Part-time Primary School Teacher Training Programme
- Master Leren en Innoveren: een voortrekkersrol bij onderwijsvernieuwing
- Geef sturing aan onderwijsontwikkeling met de Master Educational Leadership
- Master Global Citizenship
- Are you able to translate your vision on education into a successful innovation in a school at home or abroad?
- Minor Montessori