Knut Aukland

Knut Aukland is a Professor at Oslo Metropolitan University, affiliated with the Faculty of Education and International Studies and the Department of Primary and Secondary Teacher Education. He is actively engaged in teaching and research, focusing on religion didactics, religion education, and digital learning innovations. His work bridges academic research and practical teacher development, particularly through online communities and immersive technologies.

His research interests include:

• Religious Studies and History of Religion
• Religion Didactics and Teacher Education
• Virtual Reality and 360-degree imaging in education
• Ethnographic studies of Hinduism, Jainism, and pilgrimage in India
• Antiracist and inclusive religious education
• Reflexivity and methodological innovation in RE research

The recent publications highlight a strong trend toward methodological innovation, digital pedagogy, and social justice in religious education. Aukland explores how VR can develop ethical competence, how Facebook groups support teacher development, and how antiracist pedagogy can challenge dominant narratives in religion classrooms. His work increasingly emphasizes experiential and exploratory learning over mere content transmission, advocating for a shift from 'learning about' to 'learning how' in religious education.

While no formal scientific awards are listed, Aukland has significantly contributed to the field through research reports such as Ti uløste Problemer: KRLE & Religion og etikk, 2020-2030, which outlines critical challenges for the future of religious education in Norway. He actively disseminates knowledge through academic journals, public talks, podcasts, and collaborations with teacher trainees.

Knut Aukland advises and collaborates with a range of researchers and educators, including Anne Siri Kvia, Inge Andersland, Simon Simchai Hansen, and Martin Smith-Gahrsen. He is involved in projects related to practical placements in the Global South and digital learning arenas. He has also contributed to curriculum development and policy discussions in Norwegian religious education.

He is part of the research groups Classroom Research and Digital Learning Arenas, where he explores innovative teaching methods and the integration of technology in teacher education. His work reflects a commitment to equity, inclusion, and the transformation of religious education through both digital tools and critical pedagogy.