ADVERTISING
Digital education in focus: Pedagogy, infrastructure and support are to be more closely integrated in the future
The science city of Darmstadt has taken an important step towards a future-proof digital education strategy. By compiling key elements for a new media development plan (MEP), the digital equipment in schools will be further developed, as will media education practices in the classroom.
As the city reports, school principals, teachers, and IT managers from the city's schools were actively involved in the development process through a workshop. This was based on a standardized online survey previously conducted by PD – Berater der öffentlichen Hand GmbH (PD – Public Sector Consultants Ltd.). The results of this survey were directly incorporated into the collaborative work. The goal was to realistically and practically map the media education and technical requirements of Darmstadt's schools for the coming years.
Education is at the heart of the media development plan
Holger Klötzner, Head of Education and Digitalization, emphasized the content-related focus of the new plan: Digital media should meaningfully complement and enrich teaching. A prerequisite for this is a combination of high-performance infrastructure, qualified professional development opportunities, and reliable support structures.
The workshop addressed topics such as the further expansion of school Wi-Fi, equipping classrooms with digital presentation technology, the use of mobile devices for teachers and students, and the need for suitable software, apps, and licenses. In addition, individual schools presented examples from their teaching practice and formulated their own development goals.
Basis for investments and funding programs
The results of the participatory process are now being incorporated into the development of the new media development plan. This plan is scheduled for adoption in 2026. The media development plan will form the basis for future investments in the digital equipment of schools, participation in funding programs, and the long-term development of the school and educational landscape in Darmstadt.
(Darmstadt - Red/PSD/Stip)
