GEW demands better foundations for distance learning - Union demands urgent fixes for failing distance learning systems
The Education and Science Workers’ Union (GEW) has called for urgent improvements in distance learning. While acknowledging the shift to remote education as understandable, the union warns that current conditions risk leaving many students behind. Without major changes, disparities in access and support could indeed widen further.
GEW highlights severe shortages in time and technical support for teachers. Many struggle with inadequate training and unreliable infrastructure, making effective remote teaching difficult. The union stresses that without proper resources, educators cannot deliver consistent, high-quality lessons.
Significant gaps in equipment and internet access also pose a major challenge. Students from low-income households often lack devices or stable broadband, putting them at a disadvantage. GEW insists that all pupils must have equal access to technology, regardless of their family’s financial situation. The union argues that distance learning can only work with guaranteed infrastructure, clear educational standards, and sustained government funding. Binding quality criteria, realistic learning objectives, and mandatory teacher training must be put in place. Without these, GEW warns, remote education will fail to meet students’ needs. GEW is pushing for more investment in schools and digital tools. The union believes better strategies, stronger support systems, and fairer resource distribution are essential. Otherwise, the most vulnerable learners will continue to fall behind.
GEW’s demands focus on immediate action to fix remote learning’s flaws. Schools need reliable technology, trained staff, and fair access for all students. The union’s warnings underline the risk of deepening inequality if these issues are not addressed.
