The Pedagogical Institute from its foundation to its abolition: a theoretical and empirical investigation Vol. 4

Education policy is directly and indirectly related to the social, political, ideological and economic context in which it is developed, while it is shaped and implemented by individuals, institutions and interest groups with varying degrees of influence. In some cases it is linked to the choices of an individual or group of individuals and in others it constitutes a comprehensive plan of action, the result of a collective effort. The educational policy-making body has been the Pedagogical Institute, which over time has been the oldest and longest-standing scientific and advisory body on education issues. The present study has as its object of realization and discussion the institution of the Pedagogical Institute, which is examined theoretically and empirically. The theoretical analysis of the broader context and key aspects of the institution is complemented by a qualitative research approach. Views of former presidents of the Pedagogical Institute on the institution itself are explored. In particular, through semi-structured interviews, the views of the presidents on the institution’s physiognomy, organisation and operation, its work, the framework of cooperation and its contribution to the field of education are recorded. The material was analysed using the qualitative content analysis method. The resulting findings project a picture of the Pedagogical Institute. They constitute a comprehensive assessment of a long-standing and multifaceted institution that contributed to the implementation of the educational policy of the time, the support of educational reforms, and the promotion and introduction of innovations in the field of education.