Matthias Steffel

Dr. Matthias Steffel is a Research Assistant (Postdoc) at the University of Salzburg's School of Education, specifically in the Department of General Educational Science and Social Pedagogy. His role involves advanced research and academic coordination, including leadership in the Network of Pedagogical Anthropology (DGfE) and the Doctorate School PLUS »macht.bildung.gesellschaft«. He actively contributes to academic journals like the Vierteljahrsschrift für wissenschaftliche Pädagogik and co-organizes the Theorieforum Salzburg, exploring topics such as 'Being and Unconsciousness' (2024/25).

Steffel's research focuses on pedagogical anthropology, utopian theory in education, and critical analyses of ideological frameworks within pedagogy. Recent work includes examining 'pedagogical tact as utopian mediation' and critiquing virtual authenticity in education. His 2022 monograph Pädagogik und Utopie won dual awards for its groundbreaking dissertation.

He coordinates public-facing initiatives like the video series What do you actually study when you study Education?, addressing themes such as 'Education – for what?' and 'Failure in Education.' His contributions bridge theoretical insights with practical educational challenges, emphasizing historical-systematic methodologies.