Freedom is a topic that resonates with teenagers today. "The number of applications we received is higher than the number of available places," says Sandra Grizelj, project leader at "Schweizer Jugend forscht", when asked about the interest generated by this year's study week of the humanities and social sciences. Four of a total of 16 projects emerged from NCCR "Democracy".

Freedom and democracy
"Our doctoral candidates developed the projects," explains Yvonne Rosteck, scientific coordinator of NCCR "Democracy". "They will also be responsible for introducing the teenagers to the topic and the research methods." The projects of the NCCR address topics such as:

• What factors influence the definition of freedom in different countries?
• Which aspects of individual freedom are granted to migrants in Switzerland and why are they denied other aspects of freedom?
• What does "freedom to die" mean?
• What regional and international developments influence the individual freedom to make one's own decisions and the individual's right to express his/her opinions in Switzerland?

Practical research experience
"During the study week, we offer teenagers the possibility of exploring complex topics by means of sociological  methods," says Yvonne Rosteck, explaining the NCCR's commitment. The projects will show students how to do a content analysis of news items, how to statistically interpret international data and how to plan and evaluate interviews with passers-by. The teenagers can choose aspects that they find particularly interesting and can include the results in their personal reflections on the subject matter.

Public event
At the end of the study week, they will present the results of their projects at a public event, to which parents and friends as well as other interested parties are invited. "Last year we were very impressed by how enthusiastic and competent the students were in presenting their results," says Yvonne Rostock. Undoubtedly, visitors to the event will again enjoy very interesting and unusual insights into the topic.

The public closing event takes place on 19 November from 9:30 to 12:00 at the University of Zurich.