Qualitative Research In Higher Education Teaching Approaches For Sustainability And Well-Being In Bhutan

The overall objective of the HAPPY Project is to contribute to the enhancement of Gross National Happiness (GNH). GNH has been the most significant national priority for Bhutan since the 1980s, and it has evolved into the guiding purpose of Bhutan’s development. To increase GNH and support sustainable development and well-being, qualitative research data are needed to deepen the understanding of real life at each societal level. The HAPPY Project enhances collaboration between higher education institutions in Europe and Bhutan and implements innovative qualitative research teaching and learning approaches in Social Sciences and Humanities. It aims to sensitize different stakeholders about the added value of qualitative methods, modernize existing higher education curricula and enhance the competencies of academics in qualitative teaching and research.

The project contributes to scientific development by improving qualitative research methodology and introducing innovative approaches to teaching. It strengthens the capacities of higher education personnel, supports the integration of qualitative methods into regular curricula, and develops teaching contents and research tools that are available digitally.

The project is important for Slovenia because it strengthens international cooperation and the transfer and co-creation of knowledge among Slovenian, European, and Bhutanese higher education and research institutions. It enables Slovenian partners to exchange qualitative research methods, teaching tools, and innovative pedagogical approaches while establishing long-term institutional cooperation. The project strengthens capacities in interdisciplinary and cross-sectoral research, curriculum updates, and the development of the practical and transversal skills.