Baltic-Nordic Network for the Advancement of Methodology in Area Studies

Project idea

The newly established Baltic-Nordic Network for the Advancement of Methodology in Area Studies (BAMSE 2020) promotes state-of-the-art research and education in area studies in the Baltic-Nordic area by concentrating on the theoretical and methodological underpinnings of area studies. The network is a meeting point for ideas and people aiming to re-evaluate and advance area studies theories and methodologies in collaboration of teachers, researchers and students from partner institutions and their stakeholders.

One of the key activities of BAMSE 2020 is an intensive course for advanced bachelor’s students and master’s students in autumn 2021, which will take place in Vilnius. The joint course highlights the significance and embedded potential of area studies in understanding transnational challenges regarding underlying changes in power structures/relations, identity constructions, communication, symbolic politics and culture. Methodologically, students will be able to use a much wider multidisciplinary toolkit than they have been cognizant of previously, which will improve their inter/transdisciplinary thinking. In addition, the course improves students’ oral and teamwork, debate skills, interview and academic writing techniques.

Participating institutions

BAMSE 2020 is funded by Nordplus Higher Education Programme and coordinated by the East Central European, Balkan and Baltic Studies (ECEBB) and the ExpREES programmes at the Aleksanteri Institute, University of Helsinki. Network partners include University of Latvia and the Johan Skytte Institute of Political Studies, University of Tartu.