Pedagogical research and development

We study higher education pedagogy

In the PedaWell research group, we work specifically on higher education pedagogical research on topics related to learning, teaching and well-being.

We also explore learning and knowledge building in networks and at the interfaces of multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary communities. We are particularly interested in how students, teachers and professional partners interact to learn and jointly develop new solutions to current challenges.

Research projects in higher education pedagogy are part of HAMK’s SmartEdu research ecosystem.

We develop the pedagogical culture of HAMK

HAMK’s strategy states that our education is based on HAMK’s internationally recognised competence and research in higher education pedagogy.

We promote and develop a positive pedagogical culture at HAMK. For example, by building a culture of feedback and evaluation, we create a learning and teaching culture that fosters wellbeing in higher education.

Design-based education (DBE) is co-designed learning in close cooperation with businesses and other employers.

LearnWell – learning experience survey

The pedagogical and guidance-based LearnWell process developed at HAMK provides research-based information on students’ learning, learning environment experiences, work-life skills and well-being related to studying.

By combining the results of the LearnWell survey with the data from the Student Records, it is also possible to draw conclusions about factors that may be linked to challenges in progressing in studies. Challenges can then be addressed in a timely manner to reduce drop-outs.

In addition to answering the LearnWell learning experience survey and receiving a summary of their results, students also have the opportunity for a guided discussion in the degree-specific reflection sessions. The degree programmes use the results of the survey actively for the further development of their educational activities.

We train teachers in higher education

We offer our clients further education with a focus on pedagogy that is interactive and supports wellbeing.

The training is based on our research and it is always tailored to the needs and situation of the institution.

We lead the pedagogical development of RUN-EU

HAMK is part of RUN European University, which brings together eight European higher education institutions from seven different countries committed to a common vision.

We are leading the largest RUN-EU work package (RUN-EPA), in which RUN-EU universities are jointly developing innovative pedagogical approaches, joint curricula and new European joint degrees.

We improve the learning and well-being of higher education students

We tailor research-based development and education solutions to our clients’ needs, enabling higher education institutions to promote the learning and well-being of their students.

We support educational development globally

We use our research to build training and consultancy programmes for global clients based on co-creation and dialogue.

Currently, we are particularly involved in higher education development projects in Latin America and Central Asia.