Why geography teachers' subject expertise matters

ABSTRACT

Research has yet to pinpoint the role of geography teachers' subject expertise and the influence that it can have on practice. This article is based on research conducted with ‘expert’ or experienced geography teachers to explore how they use their subject expertise in their practice. The results from two teachers are presented here and illustrate how teachers can develop a personalised view of the subject which can then become important to them. The geography teachers described their geographical expertise as a guiding principle which influenced their practice and their decision making. The article argues that nurturing such a relationship with the subject is important for new teachers of geography.