Learning and developmental activities - Digital teaching pilot project initiated in vocational schools.
In Brandenburg, a pilot project for online learning in vocational education has been initiated. "The evolution of digital learning tools is imperative," said Education Minister Steffen Freiberg (SPD). On Monday, he learned about the potential of online learning in Wittenberge. Online learning can help make education more accessible and promote inclusivity, per Freiberg.
The objective of the pilot is to eventually supply top-notch educational offerings in every location. This is crucial, Freiberg emphasized, in rural regions where distances are frequently extensive. It's not about reducing teaching staff. The state laid the groundwork for online learning, for example through the amendment to the School Act that took effect in February, which first legalized online distance learning.
The initiative encompasses two distinct models. "Synchronous digital learning" broadcasts one or more instruction units across locations live. All students are at the vocational school, where the necessary technical equipment is available. This should enable direct interaction between the linked classrooms. "Asynchronous digital learning" allows vocational school students to independently complete instruction units without having to be present simultaneously. This teaching approach will only be assessed starting from the upcoming school year, as per the announcement.
In this three-year school experiment, gastronomy training professions are participating at five state-wide upper secondary centers. The OSZ Prignitz, Ostprignitz-Ruppin, Dahme-Spreewald, Spree-Neiße II in Cottbus, and Potsdam III are the centers involved. The participating schools each received 20,000 euros for the technology installation in a classroom from the Digital Pact funds, according to statements. The Prignitz district - the school authority - invested an additional 70,000 euros, they confirmed, to equip three rooms at the OSZ in Wittenberg for online learning. The Ministry of Education will also contribute to teacher training, it was disclosed.
The OSZ Prignitz reportedly implemented the technology in May of last year. Spree-Neiße II and Ostprignitz-Ruppin are expected to follow suit by August of this year. Freiberg suggested that in the long run, online learning could potentially be extended to comprehensive schools as well.
