Elise Torsnes

Elise Torsnes is a University Lecturer in the Department of Kindergarten Teacher Education at the Faculty of Teacher Education and International Studies, Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet). She serves as the Study Leader for Area 1 and is actively involved in teaching, research, and academic leadership. Her work is centered on early childhood education with a strong emphasis on cultural heritage, music, and pedagogical innovation.

Her research interests focus on early childhood education, particularly in the areas of cultural heritage, music in kindergarten, pedagogical documentation, child participation, and sustainability through play and aesthetics. She is a member of the BLEST research group (sustainability, play, aesthetics, and technology) and contributes to the Living Cultural Heritage project, which investigates how music can preserve and renew intangible cultural heritage in kindergarten settings.

The trends in her recent publications (2022–2025) reflect a consistent focus on child-centered pedagogy, reflective teaching practices, and the integration of cultural and artistic elements into early education. Her collaborative works, especially with Johnny Hyunh, emphasize themes such as recognition, spatial interaction, and critical reflection, suggesting a deep commitment to ethical and democratic early childhood practices.

While no formal scientific awards are listed, her contributions to academic conferences, project presentations, and public dissemination (including video content) demonstrate active engagement in the educational research community.

She advises on pedagogical practices and curriculum development, though no formal graduate students are listed. She is involved in active research projects such as Living Cultural Heritage and Vibrant Cultural Heritage, which aim to strengthen cultural continuity in early education. These projects involve interdisciplinary collaboration and practical implementation in both kindergartens and teacher training programs.

Elise Torsnes is part of the BLEST research group, which explores the intersections of sustainability, play, aesthetics, and technology in early childhood education. This group fosters innovation and reflective practice among educators and contributes to the development of holistic, future-oriented pedagogical models.