Norbert Kraker

Prof. Norbert Kraker is currently Vice Rector for University Development, Research, and Internationalization at the Vienna University of Education (PH Wien). He holds a Professorship with extensive experience in STEM education, vocational pedagogy, and educational leadership. His career includes roles as Vice Rector at PH Lower Austria and Head of the Department of Educational Management. He has been a key figure in advancing internationalization strategies, teacher training, and research initiatives in Austrian higher education.

Education:

• 1974–1979: Teacher training in Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry at the University of Graz
• 1999–2002: Doctoral studies in Philosophy (Education Focus) at the University of Klagenfurt

Research Interests: Prof. Kraker focuses on STEM education, vocational pedagogy, educational management, and international collaboration. He has pioneered initiatives such as the parentHOCHschule and contributed to thematic programs like Competent through Practical Work. His work emphasizes practical application, curriculum innovation, and teacher professionalization.

Key Contributions:

• Co-founder of the online journal R&E-SOURCE
• Scientific Director of the IMST thematic program
• Organizer of national/international symposia (e.g., IGIP Symposia)
• Author of physics textbooks for secondary schools

Awards:

• Adolf Melezinek Meritorious Service Award (2016)
• SEFI Fellowship (2009)
• Recognition from the Austrian Federal Ministry (2006)

Advising & Grants: Supervised numerous bachelor’s and master’s theses. Led projects funded by national and international bodies, including the BQR Implementation Working Group and the European Commission’s Erasmus+ initiatives.

Labs/Teams: Active in research networks such as the RÖPH Teaching Forum and the Research Forum of the RÖPH, fostering collaboration across Austrian teacher education institutions.