Mapping educational ecosystems in Bulgaria: Types and trends

The paper presents the current results of a long-term research project focused on mapping educational ecosystems in Bulgaria. Based on a conceptual analysis of ecosystemic paradigm in formal and non-formal education the paper presents a classification of identified types of educational models and practices with ecosystemic features. The qualitative research is based on case studies of the 6 administrative regions of the country with the aim to map the typical educational ecosystems. The data show that their features and dynamics reflect the reached balance between proactive local culture(s), context and leadership, on one side, and the supportive external priorities and policies at regional, national and international level, on the other. This explains why some ecosystems are internally focused and resilient while others’ sustainability is seriously affected by the external context and dynamics.