Postdoc Member Series: Residents' Agency and Learning
Welcome to the 2026 ISCAR Postdoc Member Series
on Monday November 16 14:00-15:00 (Local time in Finland)
Dr Virpi Lund will present her research titled
“Residents’ agency and learning: An activity-theoretical study of the development of
residents’ agency through learning in neighbourhood development.”
The abstract of the presentation and further information on Dr Lund’s research can be found at the end of this announcement.
The session is chaired by Prof. Annalisa Sannino and consists of a 20 min presentation by the speaker, followed by comments by Prof Sannino and a networking discussion with the participants. The 20-min presentation will be videorecorded and made available in the ISCAR Video Archive for the Postdoc Series.
The event is open to everyone interested. A link to the meeting will be circulated on the same day of and shortly before the start of the event among registered participants. Registration link: Dr Virpi Lund presenting at the ISCAR Postdoc Member Series – Fill out form
Abstract
The study investigates the development of residents’ agency and learning within the context of neighbourhood transformation. It emphasises the pivotal role of learning in fostering agency, enabling residents to transcend challenges by envisioning alternative futures and engaging in actions that extend beyond the prevailing system. Learning occurs through participation in change and emerges through social interaction. This process encourages residents to reflect on the challenges they encounter and to find ways to overcome them. At the same time, it reinforces their agency and expands their perceptions of future possibilities.
Further information
Lund, V. (2026). Residents’ agency and learning: An activity-theoretical study of the development of residents’ agency through learning in neighbourhood development. [Doctoral dissertation, University of Helsinki]. http://hdl.handle.net/10138/624690
What is the ISCAR Postdoc Member Series?
This initiative is for ISCAR members who have recently defended their PhD dissertation. The series showcases to international audiences key aspects of the PhD research and/or Post-Doctoral agenda of the speakers. The idea is to support the establishment of links among and beyond ISCAR Postdoc members. Proposals to have a session of The ISCAR Postdoc Member Series devoted to your work can be submitted via ISCAR Postdoc Member Series – Fill out form