Number of the month 40

Pupils no longer work solely with notebooks and pens but dive into new learning worlds using tablets and laptops. Interactive projects, 3D models, and digital collaboration – this is already a reality in many secondary schools and universities. However, what excites us also reveals gaps:
40 %
of young people in Germany lack basic digital skills according to the recent ICILS 2023 study,
Why is that the case?
One key reason lies in the unequal access to technical resources and the quality of digital education in schools. A lack of devices, unreliable Wi-Fi, or a shortage of teachers confident in using digital tools only widens this gap.
The consequence: not all children have the same opportunities. This cannot continue, as digital education is also about providing equal chances for everyone.
One thing is certain: digital media are here to stay, and they offer exciting opportunities for modern learning.
Why are digital tools so important in schools?
They are not just “nice to have” – they are a necessity. Tablets and laptops prepare our children for tomorrow’s digitalised working world. Yet the benefits extend far beyond that:Learning becomes more exciting:
Interactive methods make education more enjoyable, especially for younger learners.
Learning becomes flexible: Thanks to e-learning, students can study wherever they are.
Promoting equality: Whether in urban or rural areas, digital learning tools help level the playing field for everyone.
An example from the classroom: Imagine a primary school class where children collaboratively explore a virtual 3D model of the solar system. Some research, others design – and everyone is thrilled. Thanks to digital tools, learning becomes far more engaging and interactive.
Challenges of digitalisation – hurdles on the path to the future
As much potential as digital media offer in the classroom, they also pose several challenges. A key issue is social inequality: not all families can afford the necessary equipment, such as tablets or reliable Wi-Fi. This leaves some children at risk of falling behind.Teachers, too, face challenges. Many need targeted training to use digital tools confidently and integrate them effectively into lessons. Without this support, they can quickly feel overwhelmed.
Technical issues also create hurdles for day-to-day school life. Who hasn’t experienced it? The projector suddenly stops working, the internet connection is unreliable, or a tablet malfunctions – and the lesson grinds to a halt. These technical glitches can be frustrating, but the path to the future is rarely smooth.
Lastly, distraction remains a significant concern: apps, games, or social media make it harder for students to focus. Schools need clear structures and rules to ensure digital devices serve as tools for learning rather than sources of distraction.
What’s next? A glimpse into the future
The digital transformation of our schools is well underway, and the future looks promising:
- Investments: Governments and regional authorities are increasing spending on digital infrastructure.
- Better teacher training: Educators are being prepared for the digital classroom.
- Artificial intelligence: From personalised learning paths to interactive digital assistants, AI will change the way we learn.
- Digital replacing analogue: Printed textbooks? They could soon exist only in digital form.
Our schools stand at an exciting crossroads. Tablets and interactive media create spaces for creative, collaborative, and independent learning. However, even the best tools are useless without access and structured guidance. It is up to everyone – educational institutions, schools, companies, and us as individuals – to close this gap.
Our vision: a digital learning environment that reaches every child. Because a student’s future must not depend on whether they have a reliable internet connection at home or access to a tablet.
Conclusion: Technology as a tool, not an end goal
Tablets and digital media don’t just make teaching more modern but also more vibrant, creative, and inclusive. Of course, there are still hurdles to overcome, from infrastructure challenges to data protection concerns. Yet one thing is certain: if used correctly, digital tools can open up a world of possibilities for children and young people.
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