Laura Hirsto

Laura Hirsto is a Professor of Educational Science at the University of Eastern Finland (UEF), holding dual appointments in the School of Applied Educational Sciences and Teacher Education. She also serves as Vice Rector of the university. Her academic career includes roles as a university lecturer at the University of Helsinki’s Faculties of Theology and Education, and she currently holds a docent title in educational psychology from the University of Helsinki.

Her research focuses on learning environments, learning analytics, and pedagogical innovation, particularly in the context of self-regulated learning and flipped classroom methodologies. She has led major projects funded by Business Finland, exploring learning analytics in basic education, vocational training, and higher education. Key themes include the integration of technology in education, teacher professional development, and equitable educational policies.

Notable contributions include studies on micropolitics in school environments, the role of learning analytics in fostering self-regulated learning, and the efficacy of flipped classrooms for diverse student populations. Hirsto has co-edited conference proceedings (e.g., FLAIEC 2022) and contributed to international journals like International Journal of Learning, Teaching and Educational Research and Journal of Beliefs and Values.

Her work bridges theory and practice, emphasizing institutional-level collaboration and the socio-material dimensions of education. Current research explores how policy frameworks intersect with everyday school practices, with particular attention to child agency and inclusive pedagogy.