EARLI 2027

The theme of the EARLI 2026 conference is Learning and Instruction for Dialogue across Divides.

In a world which is increasingly characterised by division and a move to extremes, from which the field of education has not been shielded, we see this theme as allowing us to reflect on the way in which research into Learning and Instruction can help us to develop a more dialogic and constructive approach.

In these times the value of rigorous empirical research is more important than ever. We are developing an ever more rigorous body of knowledge about how children and young people learn, in what contexts and under what circumstances. It is this shared body of evidence-based knowledge that provides a basis for dialogue in the educational research community, as. We move towards out shared goal of better and more equitable educational outcomes.

This theme also reflects the importance of working across national and disciplinary boundaries as we develop the science of Learning and Instruction, and share our findings with each other, practitioners, and policymakers. This mutual learning is key to how we develop science, and what we do at the bi-annual conference.

The conference theme is also linked to the history of Belfast and Northern Ireland, and the pioneering work of Queen’s University Belfast on conflict resolution and peacebuilding. Queen’s has played a key role in helping to develop a more harmonious and peaceful society following the period of ‘The Troubles’, and is still heavily involved in addressing the divisions in society that remain following the end of the armed conflict in 1998.