Synnøve Markeng

Synnøve Markeng is an Assistant Professor at the University of Inland Norway’s Faculty of Education, affiliated with the Department of Social Sciences, Religion and Ethics. She holds a PhD in Teaching and Teacher Education and has expertise in religious education, multicultural pedagogy, and Islamic studies. Her research focuses on didactic approaches to religious scriptures, particularly the Quran, in formal and non-formal educational contexts.

Education:

• Doctorate in Teaching and Teacher Education (INN)
• Master’s in Religion and Society (University of Oslo)
• Qualified Primary School Teacher (Inland University College)

Research Interests:

Her work explores how religious scriptures are taught in schools, the interplay between formal and non-formal religious education (e.g., mosques), and the experiences of Muslim youth navigating public and religious educational spaces. Key themes include multicultural education, Islamic diversity in Norway, and religion in youth culture.

Teaching Roles:

In 2024/2025, she teaches KRLE (Religion and Ethics) and PEL (Pedagogical Foundations) in primary teacher education, and SRLE (Social Studies and Religious Education) in kindergarten teacher education. She emphasizes diversity and inclusion in her courses.

Key Projects:

• FAITHED Project: Investigates non-formal religious education among religious minorities in Norway, particularly focusing on Muslim youth.
• PROFF Program: Specializes in professionally oriented teacher education, particularly in religious education subjects.

Grants & Mobility:

• Completion grant at HINN (2024)
• Exchange at Stockholm University (2023)