Background
In our research, learning environments are considered from a broad perspective, both physical and virtual, including environments that are closed (formal, e.g., curriculum-based education in institutions), open (non-formal and informal, e.g., workplaces, social media), and take hybrid forms (e.g., apprenticeships).
The research is based on the socio-constructivist theory of learning, where communities and factors related to the regulation of learning are strongly connected to the development of expertise. The research topics include such themes as vocational and professional expertise, regulation of learning, guidance, active learning methods, engineering pedagogy, emotions and learning, workplaces as learning environments, development of expertise and digitalization, and intercultural competence. The research groups apply qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods to investigate professional growth and learning.
Aims
The research aims to enhance prospects for continuous learning and well-being at individual, group, and organisational level.
Partners
The PGL research group collaborates with other educational institutions and working life. We have active collaboration internationally with University of Cologne (Germany), University of Essex (UK), Griffith University (Australia), Ludwig-Maximilians University (Germany), University of Oxford (UK), Osnabrück University (Germany), Pontifical Catholic University (Peru), and nationally with the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Häme University of Applied Sciences, University of Helsinki, University of Oulu, and University of Turku, among others.
We also operate in other networks such as ITEEA (International Technology and Engineering Educators Association), WMEA (World Maker Education Alliance), and PATT (Pupils Attitudes Towards Technology).