Rianne van der Feen-Kooiman

Rianne van der Feen-Kooiman is a lecturer-researcher at the Excellence and Innovation in Education research group within HZ University of Applied Sciences. She holds a unique interdisciplinary background combining drama education, nursing practice, and specialized research in inclusive education strategies.

Education:

• Trained as a drama teacher at the Arnhem School of the Arts
• Bachelor's in Nursing (University of Washington)
• Master's in Nursing Specialist (Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences)
• Recent graduation as an ECHA Specialist in Giftedness (Radboud University)

Research Focus:

Her work centers on creating inclusive educational environments through collaborative networks rather than individual customization. Key areas include addressing brain diversity in classrooms, optimizing gifted education pathways, and improving accessibility in nursing and healthcare education. She emphasizes systemic approaches to ensure equitable opportunities across educational sectors.

Projects & Initiatives:

• Brain Diversity Project: Developing tools for students, teachers, and career coaches at HZ to foster inclusive education
• Giftedness Education Research Workshop (Zeeland): Bridging primary, secondary, vocational, and higher education sectors
• Preparing PhD research on inclusive higher education (University of Groningen)

Professional Experience:

Transitioned from theater work and nursing practice to education roles including teaching Healthcare and Welfare (Rotterdam) and Nursing (Vlissingen). Current focus combines teaching, research, and policy advocacy for educational equity.