The Department of Communication and Learning in Science, in collaboration with Universeum, has appointed a new visiting researcher, Ulrika Sultan. The aim is to deepen the research-based understanding of how technology education and learning environments can become more inclusive and meaningful – particularly for groups that traditionally do not see technology as a possible path.
Ulrika Sultan is currently a researcher at Örebro University, specialising in technology interest from a gender perspective. Over the next two years, she will conduct her research in collaboration with Chalmers and Universeum.
“The initiative is called ‘Research in Practice’, and it aims to bring research closer to society – something I am deeply passionate about. It feels both exciting and meaningful to build bridges between academia, the public, and the problem-solvers of the future,” she says.
She stresses the importance of acting, not just analysing:
“The research is clear: many young people, especially girls, choose technical programmes – but far too many drop out. That is where efforts are needed: in everyday teaching, in the classroom, and in how students are received.”
Maria Elmquist, Vice President for Leadership and Equality at Chalmers:
“Chalmers’ ambition is to conduct excellent research and education in an inclusive and equal environment. To secure the technical expertise of the future, we must work long-term, research-based, and in collaboration. This initiative is fully aligned with that strategy.”
Although Sweden has long been a frontrunner in technology and innovation, the country has recently fallen behind. Today, eight out of ten technology companies struggle to recruit the right competence, and several are considering relocating jobs abroad. At the same time, the labour market remains highly gender-segregated, and a long-term strategy is needed to create a more equal STEM sector – something that must begin with how schoolchildren engage with STEM subjects.
Ann-Sofie Axelsson, Head of the Department of Communication and Learning in Science:
“The purpose of this initiative is to strengthen research-based knowledge on equal and inclusive teaching and lifelong learning in STEM. It is also crucial for advancing our own work in this area.”
Questions?
- Visiting Researcher, Engineering Education Research, Communication and Learning in Science