Research

In all our research we focus on the domains described below.

Participation and inclusion of individuals with challenging needs is the point of departure of our expertise group. We focus on different target groups in our research, for example individuals with severe and multiple disabilities, individuals with specific learning and educational problems, and individuals with social- emotional and behavioural difficulties. In this, we focus on both the primary and secondary prevention and the curation of these difficulties from a theory-driven and practice-oriented perspective. Many of our research is in strong collaboration with practice.

Another strong emphasis in our research is on data modelling techniques. This research team focuses more specifically on applying, refining and developing measurement and data modelling techniques that are relevant in assessing and developing interventions for individuals with special needs; while taking into account environmental features. Our team members are specialised in Item Response modelling, Statistical modelling, complex adaptive system (time-serial) techniques, computerised adaptive testing and intervention design.

In order to implement our knowledge in practice, our expertise group has set up different Research Centers on specific research domains:

• Research Institute on Deafblindness, led by Prof. dr. Marleen Janssen
• Study Centre Children, Migration and Law – led by dr. Elianne Zijlstra
• Academic Workplace Profound and Multiple Disabilities, led by prof. dr. Annette van der Putten
• Centre of Expertise Families with Multiple and Complex Problems , led by dr. Jana Knot-Dickscheit and dr. Daniele Janssen
• Centre of Expertise Interactions in Diverse Classrooms, a collaboration between the unit of Inclusive and Special Needs Education (dr. Elisa Kupers), several other research groups focusing on interactions in education, and societal partners.
• The department of Child and Family Welfare is collaboration partner at the Academic WorkplaceC4Youth 2020-2024 (dr. Jana Knot-Dickscheit is member of the coordination team; dr. Jana Knot-Dickscheit and dr. Anne-Marie Huyghen are members of the two Knowledge and Learning Centers)
• dr. Jana Knot-Dickscheit is also involved in the Academic Workplace Friesland. Both Academic Workingplaces are funded by ZonMw
• Prof. dr. Anna Lichtwarck-Aschoff is involved in the Academic Workplace Inside-OutAcademic Workplace Inside-Out, funded by ZonMw