How a city rethinks digital school development: (not just) for school carriers
Langenfeld in North Rhine-Westphalia is pushing ahead with digital education in its schools. Since 2019, Maike Chmielewski has worked as the city’s specialist for digital school development, bridging the gap between schools, administration and local politics. Her role focuses on ensuring technology is used effectively in classrooms rather than left unused.
The city oversees ten primary schools and three secondary schools, all equipped with digital whiteboards and a one-to-one iPad provision for students. Chmielewski’s approach involves visiting schools to understand their specific needs while encouraging collaboration between them. She organises face-to-face exchanges so teachers and staff can share experiences and best practices.
Digitising education remains a complex task, with high expectations often clashing with practical hurdles. Despite limited staffing, Chmielewski emphasises sustainable support for schools transitioning into the digital age. She stresses that keeping daily operations running smoothly is a top priority, even as new teachers continue to receive the necessary equipment. With funding from the DigitalPact 1.0 now ending, Langenfeld has decided to keep supplying devices to educators—regardless of unclear state guidelines. The aim is to prevent costly technology from gathering dust while ensuring long-term integration into teaching methods.
Langenfeld’s schools now have the tools, but the challenge lies in making them work for both teachers and pupils. Chmielewski’s mediation ensures ongoing training and resource sharing among schools. The city’s commitment to providing devices, even without fresh funding, signals a determination to keep digital education moving forward.
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