The "Life course perspectives in studying youth transitions to adulthood: bridging qualitative and quantitative approaches" (YouthLife) project, has made significant progress beyond the state of the art by addressing the methodological divide between quantitative and qualitative approaches in life course research. The project's innovative integration of qualitative and quantitative methods has provided a more comprehensive understanding of youth transitions, contributing to the advancement of mixed-method research designs in the field.
YouthLife has significantly strengthened the research capabilities of CILCS at TLU, particularly through the training of early-stage researchers (ESRs), the expansion of cooperation networks, and the enhancement of research management and administration (RMA) skills. These efforts have culminated in the development of the Estonian Longitudinal Study of Youth (ELSY), a scientifically robust research design that addresses the lack of empirical data on youth transitions to adulthood in Estonia. The project's legacy includes high-quality training materials and the Qualimix website, which serves as a valuable resource hub for qualitative and mixed methods approaches, benefiting researchers well beyond the project's duration.
The potential impacts of the YouthLife project are substantial, including socio-economic benefits and wider societal implications. By deepening the understanding of youth transitions, the project informs policies and interventions that support young people during critical periods of their lives. This can lead to the design of more effective educational systems, labor market policies, and social services, ultimately contributing to the well-being and successful integration of youth into society. Additionally, the project's enhancement of RMA skills at TLU increases the institution's capability to secure national and international research funding and manage collaborative projects efficiently. The project's series of discussion seminars and methods-oriented podcasts further support the advancement of mixed methods approaches, fostering a more integrated and comprehensive research community. Through these initiatives, YouthLife not only advances life course research but also promotes a supportive environment for youth development, benefiting society as a whole.
