Treatment of the Climate of the Western Region of Kosovo in the Geography Curriculum

Abstract

This research aims to highlight the forms of treatment of the climate of the Western Region of Kosovo in the geography curriculum. The research was conducted by analyzing a wide range of academic and school literature sources, with special emphasis on the analysis of climatic characteristics and the possibilities for their utilization. Additionally, the inclusion of this topic in the school curriculum and the ways it is addressed, as well as the potential impact on educating the younger generation beyond the scientific approach, are examined. To achieve the results of this research, the qualitative method was used. In this context, a broad range of published sources from academic literature, data from the Hydrometeorological Institute of Kosovo, school curricula, and geography textbooks for grades 9 and 12, where the climate of the Western Region of Kosovo is discussed, were analyzed. The research seeks to answer the following questions: What are the climatic characteristics of the Western Region of Kosovo? What opportunities does the climate offer its inhabitants? How and to what extent is the topic included in the geography curriculum? The results show that the Western Region of Kosovo is characterized by a moderate continental climate, influenced by Mediterranean factors. The region experiences considerable sunshine, with 2002 hours per year, and temperature variations ranging from -0.4°C in January to 20.7°C in July. Precipitation is uneven, with an average of 911 mm per year, accompanied by strong winds, especially in spring. These climatic conditions offer opportunities for renewable energy, with solar energy standing out as a significant potential. Meanwhile, the potential for wind energy is limited but exists in specific areas such as Budakova and Zatriqi. The climate of the Western Region of Kosovo favors the development of intensive agriculture, especially for the cultivation of vegetables, grapes, and other crops. However, the region faces challenges such as droughts, which require efficient water management systems. The content of the textbooks shows that the treatment of the climate of this region in the geography curriculum is limited and lacks depth. The content does not address the impact of the climate on everyday life and its role in sustainable development. The academic literature provides a more detailed understanding, but school materials need improvement to better address the opportunities and risks related to the climate.

Received: 31 January 2025 / Accepted: 24 April 2025 / Published: 05 July 2025