Study proves effectiveness of digitally supported language promotion already at the beginning of primary school - but...

A study by the Institute for School Development Research (IFS) at TU Dortmund demonstrates the effectiveness of digitally supported language learning for elementary school students. The study, "Speak," showed that a 15-week digital intervention significantly improved vocabulary acquisition compared to traditional teaching methods. Students who received digital support, especially those exposed to additional digital materials at home, gained more new words. While the study highlights the potential of digital tools, it also points out that German elementary schools are under-equipped with digital media compared to other EU countries.

April 2, 2025

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Source: News4Teacher

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Study Confirms the Effectiveness of Digital Language Support in Early Primary School – But There's More to the Story...

April 1, 2025

A recent pilot study by the Institute for School Development Research (IFS) at TU Dortmund demonstrates the effectiveness of digitally supported language learning – digital media offers opportunities for effective support measures right from the start of primary school. However, the study also points out that Germany is not fully exploiting the potential of digitalization in education.

Language support with digital assistance is effective. (Symbolic photo) Photo: Shutterstock

International assessments indicate that German primary schools are under-equipped with digital media compared to the EU average, and digital tools are used less frequently. Yet, the "Speak" pilot study shows that linguistic skills can be effectively promoted digitally from the beginning of primary school.

Digital Language Promotion: A Promising Start

The study involved a 15-week digital language intervention focusing on vocabulary and grammar. Results showed that first-graders receiving digital support (either during class or also at home) experienced a significantly larger vocabulary gain compared to those in regular classes.

"Our pilot study has shown that children's language skills can be effectively promoted digitally from the beginning of primary school," explains Dr. Annik Ohle-Peters, the project leader.

The study also highlights a crucial point: while digital tools can be effective, the actual implementation and availability in schools are lacking. This echoes the findings of the IGLU study, which revealed that German schools are below the EU average in terms of digital equipment.

The Challenge: Bridging the Gap Between Potential and Reality

Professor Nele McElvany, Director of the IFS, emphasizes that the potential of digitalization is not being fully utilized in Germany. "There is a substantial need for development combined with sound empirical effectiveness studies for various competence areas, so that digital media can be used more profitably in schools in the future. School equipment and effective use of digital media must go hand in hand."

Is Traditional Education Keeping Up?

This study underscores a critical question: Are our schools truly preparing children for a world increasingly shaped by technology and innovation? While digital language support is a valuable tool, it's just one piece of a much larger puzzle. Traditional curricula often lag behind the rapid advancements in fields like AI, entrepreneurship, and digital literacy.

That’s why BlitzFast is being developed!

Introducing BlitzFast: The Future of Learning, Powered by AI

BlitzFast is an innovative, fully AI-powered online school designed to revolutionize education. Created by Engin, a father of four who understands the limitations of traditional schooling firsthand, BlitzFast offers a flexible, safe, and future-oriented learning environment that goes beyond the standard German curriculum.

Comprehensive Curriculum: Covering all core subjects, while integrating vital skills like entrepreneurship, AI, digital competencies, critical thinking, and sustainability.
Personalized Learning: AI-powered platform adapts to each child's individual pace and learning style.
Safe and Flexible: Learn from anywhere in a stress-free, protected environment.
Beyond the Classroom: Equip children with practical skills to thrive as founders, innovators, and problem-solvers in a rapidly changing world.

Engin's vision for BlitzFast emerged from a desire to provide his own children with a high-quality education, regardless of location, and to address challenges like bullying that he witnessed firsthand. BlitzFast offers freedom for families embracing digital nomad lifestyles without compromising on education. The platform emphasizes creativity, independence, and the ability to engage with modern technologies – areas often overlooked in traditional curricula.

Be a Part of the Revolution!

BlitzFast is currently under development, and we're looking for an exclusive test group of parents to help shape this groundbreaking platform. By joining our newsletter, you'll have the opportunity to:

Provide valuable feedback on everything from AI-powered core subject learning to practical projects, language practice, and creative subjects.
Influence the development of a truly innovative educational experience.
Be among the first to access BlitzFast when it launches.

Ready to join the educational revolution and help build the future of learning? Sign up for our newsletter today!

Key Takeaways:

Digital language support is effective in early primary school.
German schools lag behind in digital equipment and usage.
BlitzFast is an AI-powered online school designed to address these challenges by offering a comprehensive, personalized, and future-oriented learning experience.
You can help shape the future of education by joining the BlitzFast test group.

Don't just prepare your children for school; prepare them for the future. Learn more and sign up for updates at https://blitzfa.st

This article is based on content from News4Teacher. Visit the original source for more information.

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