Welcome to the Institute of Geography Education from the University of Cologne!
Geography deals with fascinating contemporary issues, such as climate change, migration, megacities, natural disasters, etc. As school subject, geography provides the foundation for social and political participation of future generations.
We conduct research in the fields of geography and geography education and are in charge with the university training of future geography teachers.
Our institute is directed by Prof. Dr. Alexandra Budke who gives lecture and conducts research in the fields of geography education and human geography, and by Prof. Dr. Frank Schäbitz who teaches and investigates in the fields of physical geography and geography education. Numerous staff members assist them.
Our research covers a wide range of subjects, as for example language awareness and argumentation in geography teaching, intercultural and political education, climate and environmental change, etc. Here you can find some of our most recent contributions to publications.
Students who wish to become teachers for geography at Hauptschule, Real- and Gesamtschule can complete their bachelor and master degrees. Based on our recent research, our lectures and our teaching encourage students to develop their first own research ideas in their bachelor or master thesis. You can find information on the course offer, studies’ organisation etc. here.
We regularly organise the Theorie-Praxis-Dialog, an advanced training event for geographers from schools and universities.