My research enables more equal career development for adults

The series Research in the Spotlight allows researchers from Kokkola University Consortium Chydenius to discuss their current research activities.

Minna Maunula, PhD (Ed), works as a senior lecturer in the University Consortium’s unit for education.

I explore the field of educational sciences, collaborating with both national and international networks. Our work includes developing academic multimodal training programs that are research-based and incorporate sustainability perspectives. Additionally, I have a keen interest in doctoral education, focusing particularly on the various factors that influence the development of doctoral careers.

Multimodal training sustainably addresses various contemporary needs of society and individuals. It is crucial to consider the starting points of adult students and, for instance, to enable those with families to balance employment alongside their studies. When developing training solutions, it is important to have the courage to think and act innovatively, while maintaining a strong research foundation and ensuring quality. For doctoral researchers, high-quality supervision and peer mentoring enhance the development of expertise. Equally important is fostering doctoral researchers’ awareness of the dimensions of their own expertise.

Applying the benefits of research in practice

The results of my research offer broad benefits to individuals, the workforce, education providers, and educational policymakers. The goal is to ensure that our research is impactful and its benefits are applied in practice. I strive to communicate my findings clearly and comprehensibly.

At its best, my research bears economic, social, societal, and political significance. For example, academic multimodal educational settings provide adults with more equal opportunities to study and advance in their careers, while also benefitting future generations through better quality of early childhood education. Shedding light on the stages and “secrets” of the doctoral dissertation process enhances awareness and efficiency in doctoral education, helping graduates to more effectively identify pathways to meaningful employment.

At its best, research is about discovering things together and having a lot of fun learning! The worst moments can be lonely and pressure filled, but these too can produce diamonds.