معرفی
Manuela Ferreira is Associate Professor at the Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto (FPCEUP), where she also serves as Director of the Bachelor Degree in Education since 2016. She is a Senior Researcher at CIIE (Center for Research and Intervention in Education), contributing significantly to national and international research in childhood studies and early childhood education.
- PhD in Education (2002), University of Porto
- Master’s in Educational Sciences (1995), University of Porto
- Bachelor’s in Educational Sciences (1991), University of Porto
Her research focuses on the sociology and social history of childhood, gender and diversity in education, children's cultures, and qualitative methodologies with children. She emphasizes ethnographic and participatory approaches, critically examining how children construct identities, negotiate social norms, and engage with educational spaces.
Her recent publications (2020–2024) reveal a strong thematic focus on early childhood education policies, daycare systems in Portugal, children’s play and performativity, and ethnographic research ethics. Her work often explores the intersection of institutional structures and children's lived experiences, particularly in urban and forest-based educational contexts.
She has led and participated in research projects funded by the Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia and the European Commission, including THRIECE – Teaching for Holistic, Relational and Inclusive Early Childhood Education. Her work contributes to rethinking pedagogical practices and expanding theoretical frameworks in childhood studies.
Manuela Ferreira actively mentors students and collaborates with researchers across Portugal and Brazil. Though specific advisees are not listed, her co-authorship with colleagues like Catarina Tomás, Cristina Rocha, and Ana Diogo suggests a strong supervisory and collaborative role. She also contributes to editorial work and thematic dossiers in educational journals, promoting critical dialogue in the field.
She is affiliated with research networks and laboratories such as CIIE and CoPIn, focusing on inclusion, diversity, and children’s voices. Her work supports the development of more inclusive, child-sensitive educational policies and practices.