Geographies of Young People and Education
Our research group uses a critical human geography approach to study various issues concerning the geographies of young people, such as their every-day experiences, educational encounters and transitions.
Theoretically, we make use of theories of justice, feminist theories, critical race theories, artographies, but are ethusiastic to explore other approaches that relate to our fields of research.
Our research topics include:
- Young people's geographies
- How to create inviting educational spaces
- Classism and racism in educational contexts
- Forms of institutional discrimination
- Young people as role models for creative ways of writing and reading
- Socially selective educational transitions
Methodologically, we adopt qualitative research designs, which allows young people to bring in their voices and includes a variety of (participatory) ways to express opinions and perspectives (e.g. focus groups, interviews, creative writing, photos).
By drawing on the social realities of young people, we intend to understand broader questions relating to social change and inequalities in Switzerland. Against this background, we are highly motivated to closely work together with educational experts, schools and other communities.
New projects
Institutional conditions for racially and/or socio-economically minoritized students at highly selective secondary schools in Switzerland
SNSF-project (10/2026-09/2030)
Completed projects
Young people’s transition to Gymnasium and the role of private and public supplementary learning programs
SNF-project (1/2021-7/2025), Flyer zum Projekt (PDF, 861 KB)
Dusk2Dawn: Characterizing Youth Nightlife Spaces, Activities, and Drinks
SNF-project (1.7.2017-30.6.2021, project partner)
Youth@Night - A multi-disciplinary multi-method study of young people's outgoing and drinking behaviors
SNF-project (1.1.2014-31.12.2017)
Group leaders
Dr. Itta Bauer
Dr. Sara Landolt
Former group members
Lara Landolt (PhD student)
Carlotta Reh (PhD student)
Jasmin Truong (PhD student)
Barbara Bitzi (Junior researcher and teaching assistance)