Schleswig-Holstein: Education in the middle field – challenges and opportunities!

Schleswig-Holstein: Education in the middle field – challenges and opportunities!

Schleswig-Holstein ranked eighth among German federal states in the current Education Monitor, a comprehensive analysis carried out by the New Social Market Economy Initiative (INSM). The study evaluates 98 indicators across various fields of action and shows that the northern German region is doing well in some areas. For example, Schleswig-Holstein ensures high time efficiency and school quality, which is reflected in a lower repeat rate among students, which is below the national average. The results were particularly convincing in the school performance tests, especially in listening comprehension, which indicates good teaching quality, reports star.

Despite these positive aspects, there are also downsides. According to the Education Monitor 2024, Schleswig-Holstein ranks tenth out of 16 federal states, which falls short of expectations compared to other federal states. The region needs to make improvements, particularly in the areas of higher education and research orientation. The figures show that more first-year students are leaving the country than are joining. In addition, the doctorate rate is below the national average. This challenge could be due to demographic change and the lack of attractiveness of universities.

Strengths and weaknesses in the field of education

With a second place in time efficiency and an excellent employer quota in the vocational preparation year (67.5% compared to 51.9% nationwide), Schleswig-Holstein can score points in terms of educational poverty and takes fourth place here. The school quality also achieved an above-average rating, especially the reading skills of the ninth graders. However, there is a lack of input efficiency, where Schleswig-Holstein takes last place. The proportion of scientific and artistic staff could be higher, and the investment rates are low. In the university/MINT category, the region takes second to last place, which makes it all the more urgent for measures to be taken to improve it.

A renewed analysis of the numbers shows that there is an urgent need for action in the funding infrastructure and digitalization. With a full-time quota of only 42.1% for children and 31.9% for primary school students, Schleswig-Holstein is significantly underrepresented here compared to other federal states. Digital equipment also leaves much to be desired, which highlights the need for investment in these areas.

Digital media in teaching

However, there is a positive development in the integration of digital media in teaching. The Institute for Quality Development at Schools in Schleswig-Holstein (IQSH) has launched the online test platform LeOniE.SH, which provides easier access to tests for grades 3 to 10. These tests are based on the VERA test booklets from previous years and provide precise information about learning levels. Teachers can use this to specifically identify strengths and weaknesses in the class and further improve the quality of teaching. The aim is to continuously improve the teaching and learning process and to set signals for necessary adjustments.

Overall, Schleswig-Holstein faces the challenge of building on its strengths while addressing its weaknesses. Investments in early childhood education, language and reading support, and digital infrastructure are essential to sustainably improve the educational landscape in the country and thus stop the exodus of young talent. A broad discourse about the future of education in Schleswig-Holstein is required - because there is still a lot of potential here that needs to be exploited.

For further information on the results of the education monitor and the specific areas of action, visit the website INSM and the State government of Schleswig-Holstein.