zeit.de
Insufficient Data Hinders Response to Rising School Absenteeism in Lower Saxony
Increased school absenteeism in Lower Saxony, Germany, necessitates improved data collection, according to education expert Heinrich Ricking, who highlights inconsistencies in data across states and the need for digital monitoring to address factors like anxiety disorders, school climate, and parental involvement.
- What are the immediate consequences of insufficient data collection on school absenteeism in Germany?
- The number of students skipping school in Lower Saxony, Germany, has increased, highlighting a critical lack of nationwide data collection on school absenteeism. Experts emphasize the urgent need for a standardized, digital monitoring system to allow for meaningful comparisons and informed interventions.
- What systemic changes are needed to effectively address the issue of school absenteeism and its underlying causes in Germany?
- The rise in school absenteeism is linked to factors such as increased anxiety disorders in children and adolescents post-pandemic, a sense of failure and resignation among some students, and parental involvement. Effective solutions require a focus on school culture, addressing issues like bullying and ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all students.
- What are the key factors contributing to the rise in school absenteeism in Lower Saxony, and how do they connect to broader societal trends?
- Heinrich Ricking, a researcher on school absenteeism, points to inconsistent data collection across German states as a major obstacle to understanding the issue. He argues that the lack of systematic data collection hinders effective responses and reflects a concerning lack of commitment to addressing the problem.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the issue around the need for better data collection and focuses on the expert's concerns about the lack of systematic data. While the causes of truancy are explored, the emphasis on data deficiency might overshadow other important aspects of the problem.
Language Bias
The language used is generally neutral. Terms such as "unzureichende Haltung" (inadequate attitude) might be considered slightly loaded, but are used to convey the expert's strong opinion, not to manipulate the reader. The overall tone is objective, reporting the expert's viewpoint.
Bias by Omission
The article mentions a dpa-Umfrage involving around 40 districts and cities showing increased truancy, but it doesn't specify the exact percentage or provide data from the survey itself. This omission prevents readers from understanding the true scale of the problem. The lack of nationwide comparable data also hinders a comprehensive understanding. While acknowledging data limitations, the article doesn't explore potential reasons for incomplete data collection beyond expert opinion.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights a significant increase in school absenteeism in Lower Saxony, Germany. The lack of a standardized data collection system across states hinders effective monitoring and addressing of this issue. This directly impacts the quality of education and the well-being of students, thus negatively affecting SDG 4 (Quality Education) which aims to "ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all". The lack of data prevents proper analysis and targeted interventions to support struggling students and improve school environments.