The Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences is involved in a broad array of research activities. They deal with basic and application-oriented research.

Examples of topics in basic research

• the development and evolution of concepts and paradigms in Special Education and Rehabilitation Science, such as normalization, integration, exclusion, self-determination
• empirical studies about the personal circumstances of persons with special needs

Examples of topics in application-oriented research

• the evaluation of model projects for a self-determined lifestyle
• the development and evaluation of special education testing methods for screening and early support
• the development and evaluation of differential didactic concepts
• the development and evaluation of quality standards and safety systems in assistance facilities

The research activities take place across disciplines and in cooperation with other faculties of the University of Dortmund, as well as with national and international research and training institutes.

Both the scholarly discourse and the transfer of knowledge are supported through memberships in scientific associations and are applied in supervisory and counseling activities in both political and institutional committees.

The faculty is host to many regional, national and international conferences and conventions. Three large national and international conferences were hosted by the faculty during the 2003 European Year of Disabled People.

Conferences, furthering education events and two certificates facilitate the constant renewal of pedagogic and therapeutic methods.