H.11. Indicators of Youth Condition Within and Beyond Education: Integrating Quantitative and Qualitative Evidence
The contemporary world is undergoing profound social, economic and digital transformations that are shaping youth cultures, education and democratic participation ever more. Research conducted within the Italian context, alongside international comparisons, has demonstrated the comprehensive nature of these dynamics, which encompass the structural and subjective dimensions of the youth experience. These include educational pathways, labour market participation, socio-economic inequalities, and transitions towards adulthood. It also includes aspirations, cultural practices, social participation, participation in digital environments, engagement in sports and cultural activities, well-being and identity formation.
In accordance with contemporary discourse surrounding education and democracies in the era of data governance, this panel invites contributions that facilitate the identification of indicators for the comprehension and comparison of youth phenomena over time and geographical locations. Particular attention is encouraged on issues of intersectional inequalities (e.g., gender, disability, ethnicity, migration) and on the agency of young people in shaping their educational and life trajectories.
It is recommended that reflections be given on integrated evidence from surveys, administrative sources, ethnographies, interviews, and participatory qualitative research. The utilization of both survey and administrative data is encouraged to facilitate comprehension of structural conditions. Furthermore, emphasis is placed on the necessity for approaches that capture experiences and perspectives which may elude large-scale quantitative measures.
The panel's objective is to facilitate interdisciplinary and inter-methodological dialogue, with a view to enhancing the analytical tools available for understanding young people's experiences within and beyond educational institutions. This contributes to the development of innovative and multidimensional indicators.