Childhood, Learning and Education (BALU)
Since 2018, Childhood, Learning and Education (BALU) has been a research environment that is closely linked to preschool teacher education and primary teacher education specialising in after school care and school. Using a broad perspective, the research done at BALU investigates the learning and development of children and pupils, the preconditions of childhood, the profession and the different forms of school as institutions. Currently, research is being done on child perspectives and rights, child development, learning and education, and teaching in relation to specific content.
The research done at BALU is based on and conducted through collaboration with the surrounding community. Some examples are research and development projects based on cooperation with municipalities and practising preschool teachers, and collaboration through research circles.
A three-year project (2017-2019) funded by the Swedish Institute for Educational Research is being carried out together with researchers from the University of Gothenburg and Linnaeus University. The aim is to further develop theories of play-based preschool didactics, a teaching theory for preschool, through collaboration with university/university college and preschool. Research studies are being conducted together with researchers from Kristianstad University's research environment LISMA (Learning in Science and Mathematics).
National graduate schools are examples of other fora for collaboration, currently involving other higher education institutions such as the University of Gothenburg, Linnaeus University and Mälardalen University.
In addition, there are individual projects underway that are funded by different financiers. The members of the group are part of both national and international networks and, in addition to their work in research and education, they engage in other activities, for example:
• present research in research publications
• present research through education and outreach via specialised journals, guest lectures and media
• participate in the organisation of annual conferences to present new research findings from Kristianstad University
• give presentations at international and national research conferences
• write articles for specialised publications
• review specialised textbooks in subjects such as pedagogics and psychology