Strategy of the Tampere Centre for Childhood, Youth and Family Research (PERLA), Tampere University 2024–2026
Description of the Research Centre
PERLA, which was founded in 2014, is a multidisciplinary and multi-sectoral research centre within the Tampere higher education community. PERLA brings together, promotes and strengthens research and teaching related to childhood, youth and family themes across the Tampere higher education community. PERLA actively participates in societal discussion through its networking and interaction activities. It promotes research-based decision-making and integrates the latest research knowledge into education on childhood, youth and family themes. Through high-quality research, research-based teaching, and societal engagement, PERLA contributes to the educational and research strategic goals of the Tampere higher education community.
PERLA is led by a fixed-term director, and its activities are coordinated by a multidisciplinary steering group composed of teaching and research staff from the Tampere higher education community. The steering group includes representatives from all faculties of the Tampere higher education community as well as TAMK – Tampere University of Applied Sciences.
PERLA’s Goals for 2024–2026
In the coming years, PERLA aims to strengthen its position as a well-known and significant actor in the field of childhood, youth and family research and societal impact.
PERLA also responds to the strategic guidelines and challenges of the Tampere higher education community regarding education and research.
PERLA promotes multidisciplinary research and related education, contributes to identifying and solving societal problems through its research and creates the conditions for research-based decision-making.
Short-term Objectives
- Strengthen multidisciplinary research and teaching on childhood, youth and family themes within the Tampere higher education community.
- Support the ideation of new research projects, the acquisition of research funding and the implementation of projects through systematic and regular activities.
- Support scientific publishing and develop the PERLA network’s expertise in academic publishing.
- Promote national and international research and educational cooperation in childhood, youth and family themes.
- Develop the connection between research and teaching, as well as dialogue and collaboration across disciplines.
- Participate in and take a bold, research-based stance in societal discussions.
- Build and strengthen cooperation with key researchers, decision-makers and organisations working on issues related to children, young people and families.