Friederike Merkelbach

Friederike Merkelbach is an Associate Professor in Pedagogy and Music Pedagogy at Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, serving as Study Program Manager for Primary School Teacher Education (1-7). She holds a Master's in Didactics of Cultural and Language Subjects with a music specialization, and a PhD from PROFF, developing the concept of 'cyborg talentification' through digital-human interaction studies.

Her research focuses on musical talent, child pop stars, social media phenomena, and aesthetic learning processes. She co-led the DYNAMUS project (2018-2022) exploring musical upbringing in Norway's welfare state. Key expertise includes pedagogical analysis, classroom management, and interdisciplinary education design.

Currently affiliated with research groups Digital Communication and Culture (DigKom) and Quest. Active in school improvement projects like the Hamar region's inclusive learning initiatives. Supervises master's students and teaches at both bachelor's and master's levels.