Claudia Vorst

Prof. Dr. Claudia Vorst is a Professor of German Literature and its Didactics at the Schwäbisch Gmünd University of Education in Germany. She previously served as Rector (President) of the university from 2018 to 2024 and continues her academic work as Director of the Institute for Language and Literature within the Faculty of Language and Literature. Her career spans both academic research and practical educational leadership, with deep connections between university scholarship and classroom practice.

Her educational background includes:

• Primary Education Studies (German, Art, Mathematics) at Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster (1982-1986)
• Doctoral studies in German, Educational Science, and Psychology at WWU Münster (starting 1987)
• Doctorate in Educational Science (1995-1997)
• Habilitation for Modern German Literature with focus on Literature Didactics at University of Paderborn (2006)

Prof. Vorst's research explores literature education through multiple lenses, with particular emphasis on how children interact with literature across various media formats. Her work examines the evolving landscape of children's literature in the digital age, investigating how traditional literary forms intersect with new media. She has made significant contributions to understanding visual literacy development, intertextuality in children's texts, and teacher professionalization in literary instruction. Her scholarship consistently bridges theoretical frameworks with practical classroom applications.

Analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong focus on contemporary challenges in literature education, including diversity representation in children's books, historical narratives for young readers, and the integration of digital media in literary instruction. Her work demonstrates a consistent commitment to connecting university research with practical educational settings through what she terms a 'revolving door' between theory and practice.

Professional recognition includes:

• Doctoral scholarship from the German Academic Scholarship Foundation (1991-1993)

Throughout her career, Prof. Vorst has been deeply involved in teacher education and professional development, leading numerous initiatives including the Kompetenzteam NRW. She has directed significant research projects such as 'ProMedia Primar 3P' (Digital Learning in Primary School), funded by the Telekom Foundation. Her work extends beyond traditional academic boundaries through active involvement with the 'Bilderbuchzentrum BUFO' (Picture Book Center), which serves as a literary learning workshop for children and adults, and the 'Kikife' Children's Film Festival, where she conceptualizes literature and film didactic activities.