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Homework gone! Citizens' Council for Education and Learning hands over recommendations to the Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs (KMK).

The "Bürgerrat Bildung und Lernen" (Citizens' Council for Education and Learning), initiated by the Montag Stiftung Denkwerkstatt, is advocating for significant changes in the German education system. Composed of over 700 randomly selected citizens, the council proposes abolishing homework and replacing it with in-school practice, increasing student autonomy in learning, and implementing mandatory early language support through a Kita (daycare) obligation. They presented these recommendations, along with others such as postponing grades until the 9th grade, to the Minister of Education of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Simone Oldenburg, who currently chairs the KMK (Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs). Oldenburg sees the recommendations as valuable input. The council believes these changes would create a fairer, more relevant, and future-oriented education system, promoting equal opportunities and individual talent development. Other critics point to issues like teacher shortages and dilapidated school buildings as more pressing concerns.

April 1, 2025
Topical IssuesCitizens' Council Education and LearningStanding Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural AffairsMontag Stiftung Denkwerkstatt
Source: News4Teacher

Article Content

Rethinking Education: Are Homework and Traditional School Models Obsolete?

A recent report from the "Bürgerrat Bildung und Lernen" (Citizens' Council for Education and Learning) is making waves, suggesting a significant shift in how we approach education. The core recommendation? Abolish homework and shift learning exercises to the classroom. This proposal, along with others, is putting pressure on policymakers to re-evaluate the traditional educational landscape.

Key Recommendations from the Bürgerrat

The Bürgerrat Bildung und Lernen, comprised of over 700 randomly selected individuals from across Germany, has put forth 19 concrete recommendations aimed at creating a more equitable, relevant, and future-oriented education system. Some key highlights include:

  • Abolishing homework in favor of in-school practice and reinforcement.
  • Increased student self-determination in learning.
  • Mandatory early language support starting in Kindergarten ("Kita-Pflicht").
  • Introducing grades later, starting in the ninth grade.
  • Meaningful integration of analog and digital learning.

These recommendations were presented to Mecklenburg-Vorpommern's Minister of Education, Simone Oldenburg, who currently heads the KMK (Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs of the Länder in the Federal Republic of Germany). Oldenburg acknowledged the value of the proposals, noting that good educational policy requires taking critique and suggestions seriously.

The Need for Change: Addressing Real-World Challenges

The report highlights a growing sentiment: the need for a more adaptable and student-centered approach to education. Concerns about chancengerechtigkeit (equal opportunities) and the development of crucial skills for the future are at the forefront of the discussion.

"Where students actively participate in decision-making and shaping content, their engagement, motivation, and social responsibility increase," stated Oldenburg.

However, critics point out that the lack of teachers and the dilapidated condition of school buildings have to be addressed, too.


Is Traditional Schooling Keeping Up? Introducing BlitzFast: The Future of Learning

These discussions raise a critical question: Are traditional school models adequately preparing children for the rapidly evolving world? At BlitzFast, we believe education needs a revolution.

BlitzFast is an innovative, fully AI-powered online school designed to provide a flexible, secure, and future-focused learning experience. Created by Engin, a father of four who saw firsthand the limitations of the traditional school system, BlitzFast goes beyond simply covering the German curriculum. Inspired by challenges like violence and bullying that his son experienced, Engin wanted to offer families freedom and offer children the best education possible, whether they are Digital Nomads or expacts.

Here's how BlitzFast is reimagining education:

  • Beyond the Curriculum: We integrate vital, often overlooked subjects like entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence, digital literacy, critical thinking, and sustainability.
  • Personalized Learning: Our AI-driven platform adapts to each child's individual learning pace, ensuring no one is left behind.
  • Safe and Flexible Environment: Learn from anywhere, anytime, in a stress-free and secure online environment. We offer a solution for families in need of a safe and stress free alternative.
  • Equipping Future Leaders: We empower children to become founders, innovators, and problem-solvers, equipped with the practical skills needed to thrive in a dynamic world.

BlitzFast is more than just a school; it’s a platform designed to give families the freedom they need, without compromising on the quality of their children's education.


Help Shape the Future of Education: Join Our Exclusive Test Group

BlitzFast is currently under development, and we are looking for a select group of parents to help us shape the future of learning. By joining our exclusive test group, you'll have the opportunity to provide invaluable feedback on our platform, from the core AI-powered learning modules to advanced features like project-based learning, language practice, and creative subjects.

Be part of a revolutionary approach to education that prioritizes safety, flexibility, and comprehensive preparation for the future.

Ready to join the BlitzFast revolution? Sign up for our newsletter and become part of our exclusive test group: https://blitzfa.st


Key Takeaways:

  • The "Bürgerrat Bildung und Lernen" is advocating for significant changes to the traditional education system.
  • Key recommendations include abolishing homework, increasing student autonomy, and focusing on equity.
  • BlitzFast is reimagining education with a flexible, secure, and future-focused online platform.
  • You can help shape the future of learning by joining the BlitzFast test group.

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

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