According to the Organization for Economic Co-operation
and Development (OECD), the German education system is a thing to be envied. In
particular, Germany has some of the highest rates of school enrollment and
youth employment in the world(1).
This record is surprising for two reasons. First of, Germany spends less (4.2% of GDP)
than the OECD average (4.8% of GDP) on education(1). Second, German schools seem to have been
reluctant to go digital(2).
Digital transformation has entered various sectors of the
economy in Germany. However, the education sector has remained largely
unaffected(3).
Smartphones, notebooks, and tablet computers are an
integral part of daily life for most young Germans these days. However, the use of
digital media in the classroom isn’t catching on as fast as one might expect(2).
It has been reported that interactive classes, bridging
the gap between traditional education and modern technology, are a scarce
commodity in Germany. This is a country that prides itself on its engineering prowess
and manufacturing skills(4).
Some reasons have been cited for lack of digital
transformation in the German education sector.
In some cases, students are not allowed to use their devices (especially
smartphones) in schools. In some cases, teachers lack confidence in using the latest technology. However, the biggest
issue is funding(2). And
other articles (e.g., 5) have emphasized the fact that digital
education in schools is indeed an expensive undertaking.
However, with hopes of making a ‘big leap’ in digital
learning, former German Education Minister Johanna Wanka promised to invest 5
billion Euros in 40,000 schools(1).
It has been stated that Germany’s education system
appears poorly prepared to equip its youngsters with the tech skills they’ll
need for the future labor market. Nevertheless, we are beginning to see signs
of the needed change in political will.
Also, companies and private initiatives are pushing for change(4).
REFERENCES
Posted by: Dr. Nat Tuivavalagi
No comments:
Post a Comment