Frank van de Schans

Frank van de Schans serves as a Lecturer-Researcher at Fontys University of Applied Sciences within the Pedagogy school, specifically with the Diversity and (Ortho)pedagogical Practice Research Group. He concurrently works as a researcher/supervisor at the Center for Pedagogical Innovation (CPI) of the Youth Care Combination.

His academic background lies in social pedagogy, Higher Professional Education in Pedagogy (HKP), and forensic orthopedagogy. His research focuses on diversity and family-centered approaches, with particular emphasis on Caribbean family structures on Curaçao through the 'Family Matters' project which examines risk and protective factors. He also investigates juvenile delinquency in the 'Dutch' Caribbean context.

Van de Schans' work demonstrates strong connections between theoretical pedagogy and practical application, particularly in play development research for children with developmental delays. His scholarly contributions show consistent focus on marginalized populations and culturally responsive educational approaches.

As a PhD candidate, he actively supervises bachelor students while contributing to the academic community through publications and research projects that address pressing social issues in education and youth care.