FoRP – Research on Relational Pedagogy

The overarching aim of FoRP is to initiate, coordinate, and expand research on educational practice and theory within a relational framework. Relationality is conceived as a constitutive condition of human existence. Accordingly, interpersonal relationships – rather than atomized individuals, groups, or organizations – are positioned at the center of inquiry, while simultaneously being situated in relation to the individual subject as well as to broader social and institutional contexts. Central conceptual foci include relationship, communication, and profession, together with the premise that knowledge development is/should be grounded in a caring pedagogical ethos.

A range of ongoing projects examine teachers’ relational competence and the ways in which it can be fostered in teacher education and continuing professional development. These projects employ diverse methodological approaches, such as video-based reflection and avatar technology. In addition, several members adopt micro-analytical perspectives to deepen the understanding of the significance of relationships in teaching