Next Generation Researchers
The research-based approach to learning and teaching at Cologne lays the foundation both for the development of future teachers into teacher scientists, as well as the emergence of next generation of researchers in various disciplines.
The teacher education degree programme’s research approach is strengthened by opportunities that allow students to explore the possibility of pursuing a doctorate in teacher education at the end of their studies. For example, support is provided with the initial steps of a doctorate, such as writing an exposé and searching for a supervisor.
For me, being a teacher education instructor means working with the next generation of academics in the Graduate School of Teacher Education to develop schools in a research-based and systematic way.
Students
Student teachers, also known as the next generation of academics, can actively participate in research early on.
They can learn to develop research questions, test innovations in schools, and create methodical and accurate assessments.
The study project in the practical semester anchors researchs into the degree programme curriculum. Student teachers can use this practical internship to learn to reflect on their observations and experiences in a scientific manner.
Developing questions independently in the context of one’s own research helps students view phenomena and challenges through a scientific lens. This can also inspire an academic career.
Doctoral candidates and researchers
The University of Cologne supports their doctoral students by providing them with a sustainable and comprehensive infrastructure of graduate institutions.
The teacher education Faculties maintain their own graduate schools for coordinated subject-related and interdisciplinary training and networking between doctoral students.
Graduate School for Teacher Education (GSLB)
In addition to the support offered by a faculty’s graduate school, students pursuing a doctorate in teacher education also may benefit from the exceptional support provided by the Graduate School for Teacher Education (GSLB), a one-of-a-kind institution in Germany.
The GSLB promotes the next generation of academics from various Faculties who conduct research on schools, teaching, and the teaching profession. Through its connection to the Center for Teacher Education (ZfL), the GSLB acts as an interface between schools and the university.
Temporary leave from teaching
Teachers can be released from school service and sent to the university to pursue a doctoral degree.
This is an excellent opportunity for teachers to develop their skills as a teacher scientist and to further professionalize a research approach to exploring issues in depth within a broad research and support network.
Teachers
Teachers take an active role in shaping their professional development. As teacher scientists, they adopt a research-oriented approach and continuously expand their knowledge to ensure their teaching skills are always up to date and effective.
The further education opportunities offered by the University of Cologne provide an inspiring and flexible environment that specifically supports and promotes lifelong learning.
Students
Teachers and students promote research-based learning in schools by modelling scientific practices for their pupils. They introduce curiosity, openness, and scientific thinking into everyday school life.
This fosters a culture of discovery in young people, motivating them to understand the world and actively shape the future, nurtured by an open, inquisitive and dialogical approach to learning.
Exploring the world through research is important for all areas of society, particularly for the next generation of scientists.