Comparing the Education Systems
Education System Structure
Germany
The school system is divided into three main levels: primary school, secondary school, and university. A chart is provided below illustrating these tiers and the various types of secondary school.
In Germany, there is a cultural emphasis on taking time before pursuing higher education. Teachers often encourage and provide guidance to students who are interested in taking time off before starting university, promoting various programs and opportunities to explore different interests. This approach values personal growth and exploration and allows students to gain practical experience, travel, or engage in community service before committing to a university program.
America
The school system is divided into four main levels: elementary school, middle school, high school, and college. A chart is presented below illustrating these tiers.
In American culture, the conventional path after high school involves graduating and immediately pursuing a university education or starting a career. As a result, taking a gap year is not widely discussed or encouraged as an option. In fact, there can be a social stigma associated with not entering the workforce or continuing university directly after high school. The lack of emphasis on gap years may contribute to a narrow perspective of career paths and life experiences.
Teacher Education Program
Germany
The programs require the study of two subject-specific areas with pedagogical training and classroom experience.
There is a strong emphasis on practical training, with students completing one year of extensive supervised teaching internships in schools.
The students get paid during their teaching internships.
Some students have to relocate to their assigned schools for their teaching internships.
America
The program requires a bachelor's degree in education or a specific subject area, followed by a teacher certification program.
The student teaching program requires one semester of student teaching.
The students do not get paid during their student teaching.
The schools that are assigned during student teaching placement are located near the university unless specifically requested.
Special Education Program
Germany
The German Special Needs Education Act ensures equal access to education and emphasizes the rights of students with disabilities.
The Integration Assitance Act mandates the provision of necessary support services, such as personal assistance, therapy, and special education teachers, to students with disabilities.
There is a dual-track system, offering both separate special schools and inclusive education options.
America
Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), all schools are required to provide free and appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment for all students with disabilities.
There are specific rights and protections in place for students with disabilities and their families, including the right to an individualized education program (IEP), which outlines the student's unique educational goals and services.
Classroom Setup
Germany
Teachers at the secondary school do not have their own classrooms because there are not enough rooms for each teacher.
There are several large windows that let in the natural sunlight. Usually, the lights are not used unless it's a cloudy day. This not only saves energy but also makes the room feel brighter and more pleasant for learning.
The desks are arranged in rows facing the front of the classroom.
America
Each teacher has their own classroom and personalizes it.
The windows are usually small and don't allow much natural light in. Some classrooms even lack windows entirely because they are located in an interior room. The fluorescent lights are constantly on, and this can lead to headaches.
The classrooms have flexible seating arrangements, typically arranged in groups to encourage collaboration and discussion.
Student Class Schedule
Germany
Students typically have about a five-hour school day.
The school day consists of about four periods that range from 55-90 minutes each, with 20-minute breaks in between.
Students and staff have a 45-minute lunch break, during which students have the option to leave the school premises to get lunch.
The secondary school uses an A/B block schedule.
America
Students typically have an eight-hour school day.
The school day consists of several periods that are usually 45-60 minutes each, with short five-minute breaks in between.
Students and staff have about a 25-minutes lunch break, and students are expected to remain on school grounds.
Most schools use a traditional schedule that is the same each day.
Classroom Management
Germany
Teachers often adopt a more structured and disciplined approach to classroom management.
There is an emphasis on teacher-led instruction and individual work.
Students are expected to listen attentively, follow instructions, and maintain discipline.
Discipline is often maintained through clear rules, expectations, and consequences, with an emphasis on orderliness and punctuality.
America
Teachers utilize various strategies such as group work, hands-on activities, and technology integration to engage students actively.
There is an emphasis on student-centered learning and collaboration.
Students are actively involved in the decision-making processes and encouraged to voice their opinions.
Discipline is typically maintained through a combination of clear expectations, positive reinforcement, and consequences for inappropriate behavior.
Dress Code
Germany
Students were not allowed to wear sweatpants, leggings, or pajamas.
Students can show their midriff.
Teachers typically wear jeans, a school sweatshirt, and sneakers.
America
Students typically wear sweatpants and leggings.
Schools will have theme days where they can wear pajamas to school.
Students are not allowed to show their midriff.
Teachers are required to dress business casual except on specific days.
Security
Germany
As a student teacher, I was able to walk into the school and head straight to class.
Teachers are not required to wear an ID badge.
Classroom and external doors were always left unlocked.
Students had the freedom to spend their break either inside the school building or outside.
Students typically practice fire drills and severe weather drills.
America
As a student teacher, I was required to ring the doorbell, provide identification, and sign in each day before being granted entry.
Teachers are required to wear their ID badges at all times, which include their set of keys to enter their classroom and other doors.
Classroom and external doors are always locked during school hours for security measures.
Students are only permitted to be in the classroom or bathroom during breaks between classes.
Students typically practice fire drills, tornado and severe weather drills, earthquake drills, and active shooter drills.
*Please note the observations and information provided were based on the structure of two schools in Germany, and may not necessarily reflect the structure of all the schools in the country.