What Geographical Skills do the International Geography Olympiad Aim to Measure? A Content Analysis of iGeo Questions

Abstract

The aim of this research is to analyse the geography Olympiad questions organized between 1996-2022 according to main topics and geographical skills. The general qualitative research approach was used in the data collection phase of the research. The geography Olympiad questions organized between the years 1996-2022, which constitute the data sources, were decoded with descriptive analysis technique. In this research, the questions belonging to the 18 years that constitute the data sources were examined and analysed. While analysing the data sources of the research, attention has been paid to main topics and geographical skills are the determining element. It is found that iGeo questions aim to develop Spatial Analysis and Interpretation, Map Skills, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Data Interpretation and Analysis, Fieldwork and Observation, Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving, Cultural and Human Geography Skills, Environmental Analysis and Sustainability. It can be suggested that content of geography curriculums and courses are designed to aim these geographical skills to educate students for their future jobs.