Welcome to the Department of History

A key distinguishing feature of the history program at the University of Education, as compared to universities, is the closer integration—including in terms of faculty—of historical periods (from prehistory and early history to contemporary history), historiography (theory of history), and history education. This stems from the conviction that all three areas are inextricably linked. The subject of history didactics—the study of teaching and learning history—is historical consciousness in its structure, functions, individual and collective development, and the possibilities for its targeted promotion. Although history instruction in schools is the linchpin of history studies at the University of Education, both the scholarly and non-academic approaches to history (history and memory culture, medievalism) play an important role in the research and teaching of our department.

The aim of the subject is no longer to teach a fixed canon of “facts” or knowledge of historical events, but rather to contribute to the promotion and development of a reflective historical consciousness and to train teachers who embody the ideal of the reflective practitioner. In light of a world that is becoming increasingly complex due to interdependence and rapid change—and one that must constantly adapt to new demands—it no longer seems appropriate to designate specific historical content as mandatory subjects of study. Rather, the focus is on strengthening the abilities and willingness to successfully pursue professional development and adapt to changing professional demands through the practice of historical competencies (initially in the role of students, but increasingly in the role of teachers starting from the practicum phase). The teaching and research of the Department of History consistently keep these goals firmly in view.