Tchelet Liby Tutman
Title: How to Educate for Peace? Various Pedagogical Methods in Educational Activities for Israeli and Palestinian Youth in Peace Education Organizations
Supervisor: Aviv Cohen, Ph.D., Associate Professor
Abstract:
This study examines the challenges and opportunities involved in transforming the ideology of encounter into a structured pedagogical system within peace education organizations working with Jewish and Palestinian youth in Israel. It argues that meaningful change in protracted conflict can be achieved through reflective educational processes that address not only content but also methods of delivery. Based on a year-long qualitative study including semi-structured interviews, observations, and analysis of organizational materials, the research compares different pedagogical approaches and analyzes how ideology, educators, and target audiences shape peace education practices.
Hiba Rabadi
Title: Identity dilemmas, experiences and feelings of the Palestinian female students from East Jerusalem during their integration process in the Hebrew University
Supervisor: Prof. Ifat Maoz
Abstract:
This qualitative study explores the dilemmas, experiences, and emotions of Palestinian female students from East Jerusalem as they integrate into the Hebrew University. Based on in-depth interviews, the research examines the tension between preserving Palestinian identity and values while seeking integration and acceptance within Israeli society, often in the face of discrimination and unfamiliarity.
Roy Katz
Title: A smile with teeth: a discourse of hate against American Vice-President Kamala Harris
Supervisor: Prof. Tsfira Grebelsky Lichtman
Abstract:
This study analyzes hate discourse directed at Vice-President Kamala Harris on social media, focusing on followers of Sean Hannity’s Facebook page during the first 100 days of the Biden administration. Drawing on intersectionality and role congruity theory, the thematic analysis identifies central patterns of race- and gender-based hate and proposes a framework for understanding multilayered online prejudice and its implications for female political leadership.
Shlomit Laub
Title: Perceptions, feelings, attitudes, and experiences of young women from the Shomron hills who built their homes there
Supervisor: Dr. Yuval Benziman
Abstract:
Through qualitative in-depth interviews, this study explores the lived experiences, dilemmas, challenges, and worldviews of young religious women who grew up in the Shomron hills and chose to establish their homes there. The research seeks to provide a nuanced understanding of this social phenomenon through the participants’ own voices.
Shaina Silberstein
Title: The Identity Journey of North American Chabad Women After Aliyah
Supervisor: Prof. Ifat Maoz
Abstract:
This study follows the identity development of North American Chabad women after immigrating to Israel. While Aliyah is often ideologically motivated, integration into Israeli society presents cultural, professional, and religious challenges. Using qualitative methods, the research examines how these women negotiate multiple identities and adapt to broader social and religious environments.
Aliza Gold
Title: Experiences, feelings, and dilemmas in the daily lives of Palestinian civilians living in the Old City of Jerusalem under Israeli security and surveillance
Supervisor: Prof. Yuval Benziman
Abstract:
This qualitative study, based on semi-structured interviews and grounded theory analysis, explores the daily experiences of Palestinians living in Jerusalem’s Old City. It focuses on how security measures, spatial complexity, religious sites, and inter- and intra-group relations shape their feelings, dilemmas, and perspectives.
Michal Dahan
Title: First-generation higher education and success in Israel – Mizrahi women in leadership positions at the Hebrew University
Supervisor: Prof. Yifat Maoz
This qualitative research provides insight into the experiences of first-generation Mizrahi women who reached leadership positions at the Hebrew University. Retrospective in-depth interviews examine educational experiences, family decisions, dilemmas, and challenges shaping their academic and professional trajectories.
Revital Windsberg Bersheshat
Title: Characteristics of Israeli society during the COVID-19 pandemic as reflected in the satire program “Zehu Ze!”
Supervisor: Dr. Yuval Benziman
The study analyzes public narratives, attitudes, and perceptions of daily life in Israel during COVID-19, as reflected in the political satire program “Zehu Ze!”. Using content analysis, the research examines satire as a lens for understanding public discourse during prolonged crises.
Hamutal Levin
Title: Dilemmas, attitudes, and experiences of Chabad women studying in secular higher education institutions
Supervisor: Prof. Yifat Maoz
Through in-depth interviews and grounded theory, this study examines the internal conflicts, challenges, and perspectives of Chabad women pursuing non-teaching academic degrees in secular institutions.
Yifat Mantsavach
Title: Religion and conflict resolution – unique opportunity or hindering obstacle
Supervisor: Dr. Yuval Benziman
This research investigates how religious Jews involved in conflict resolution perceive the relationship between faith and peace practices. Using in-depth interviews and grounded theory, it explores whether religious language integrates with Western conflict resolution methods or offers alternative approaches.
Daniel Barsest
Title: Perceptions, feelings, and dilemmas of parliamentary advisors in the Knesset
Supervisor: Prof. Yifat Maoz
This qualitative study examines the professional and ethical challenges faced by parliamentary advisors in Israel and their role in democratic and political processes.
Eyal Izman
Title: Themes, expressions, and discourse patterns in online comments regarding the Haredi community on Ynet
Supervisor: Prof. Yifat Maoz
The research analyzes themes, images, and discourse patterns in 3,084 online comments on Ynet articles about the Haredi community. The study identifies six main themes characterized by incivility, exploring how such discourse shapes personal and group identity and reflects strategies of group delegitimization.
Einat Levi
Title: Jewish recognition and renewal in Morocco – Case study of Essaouira
Supervisors: Prof. Eli Poded, Dr. David Gadag
This study examines the recognition and revival of Jewish life in Morocco over the past decade, focusing on Essaouira. It explores the factors, circumstances, and manifestations of Jewish cultural renewal in the context of regional change and declining Jewish populations, reflecting broader processes of multiculturalism and societal transformation in the Middle East.