The research tracks of the association research plaform address the broad field of orthopedagogics (special needs education), including support for various target groups (people with intellectual disabilities, individuals with substance use problems, children and adolescents with behavioral and emotional disorders, people with a migration background, forensic populations, the elderly, etc.); their positioning within diverse sectors (care and support for people with disabilities, youth welfare services, education, mental health care, etc.); and attention to a diversity of situations (difficult educational and life circumstances). Both ‘regular’ and ‘specific’ interventions are taken into account.

This is based on the definition of orthopedagogy at Ghent University: “the science of methodical, integrative, and meaningful social interactive action in educational situations that are experienced as problematic, with the aim of improving the living conditions, quality of life, and participation in society of all those involved, through scientifically grounded qualitative and quantitative research methods.” (see http://www.orthopedagogiek.ugent.be)