Two educators express concerns over inadequate computer proficiency at the educational institution they work at.
Germany: Teachers Express Don including 46% satisfaction with school equipment, survey finds
BERLIN — A new survey by the Bielefelder opinion research institute Mentefactum reveals that less than half of teachers in Germany are satisfied with the equipment of their schools. The survey, which polled 305 teachers and 1,255 parents, found that only 46% rated the technical and spatial equipment of their schools as good, according to "Der Spiegel."
The survey further disclosed that 53% of teaching staff reported deficiencies in computer and internet skills at their schools. However, 71% of parents rated the technical and spatial equipment as good. Despite this, 63% of parents criticized the minimal role of economic thinking and action in teaching. Moreover, 51% of parents felt that the school curriculum did not adequately cover nutrition and health.
The research institute's findings also revealed that parents are generally satisfied with the professional qualifications of teaching staff, yet many expressed concerns about the didactic level of teaching. While 87% of parents praised the professional competence of the staff, half said that teachers coordinated poorly, failed to employ new teaching methods, and struggled to cater to diverse student requirements. Myrle Dziak-Mahler, from the Center for Teacher Education at the University of Cologne, explained, "The German school system is not designed for individual attention, and the willingness of many teachers to address each student is lacking."
Background: The lack of resources and poor work environment can contribute to teacher dissatisfaction, often affecting the quality and teaching methods available. Further, problems like bullying, lack of autonomy, and poor leadership can impact teacher morale. Inadequate support and professional development opportunities can also discourage innovation in teaching methods.
On the parental front, concerns over education quality might arise when schools lack adequate equipment, impacting the learning experience of students. Parental support for teachers may be influenced by the quality of the learning environment provided by schools. Involvement in educational reform may also be driven by concerns regarding the quality of education.
- The survey revealed that even though 71% of parents rated the technical and spatial equipment as good, 63% of parents criticized the minimal role of economic thinking and action in teaching, suggesting a potential need for education-and-self-development programs that include financial literacy.
- Despite parents' general satisfaction with the professional qualifications of teaching staff, many expressed concerns about the didactic level of teaching, highlighting the importance of ongoing education and professional development for teachers to improve their teaching methods and cater to diverse student requirements.
