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Primary and secondary school pupils have not yet fully recovered from the learning backlogs suffered during the coronavirus crisis. Out new research shows that primary school children have reading comprehension at the required level again. It is surprising that high school students’ English is better than before the two years of the pandemic.
But in the field of arithmetic and mathematics it turns out to be much more difficult to catch up. “Students have difficulty learning, are less motivated and have difficulty planning,” Education Ministers Wiersma and Dijkgraaf cite the researchers’ conclusions.
on line
In 2020 and 2021, the cabinet closed schools twice to prevent the spread of the corona virus. Pupils have been taught online for a long time and this has led to such a huge learning backlog that even exams have been simplified.
The cabinet has until 2024-2025 a total of 8.5 billion euros earmarked to fill learning gaps. Various studies are underway to determine if the use of money has an effect.
The ministers speak of a “diversified framework”. There are positive developments, such as progress in reading comprehension among primary school pupils and improvements in English in lower secondary school. But despite the extra efforts of schools and the efforts of experts, the backlog appears to have increased in spelling in primary education, in arithmetic and mathematics in children aged 4 to 18, and in Dutch in secondary school.
Substance
Some arrears are easier to clear by flying extra hours than others, the letter to the House of Representatives said. This is harder in math, for example. If a student does not understand the basics, it is difficult to master the next material.
Research also shows that schools are concerned about the well-being of pupils and students. High school girls, especially, are not feeling well. They experience severe performance pressure. Schools try to do something about it with special training and lessons. The students also suffer from “persistent” mental problems.
Ministers note that the impact of the coronavirus on learning performance and mental well-being is significant. “Delays are persistent in some areas.” The commitment of 8.5 billion euros is absolutely necessary, they conclude in their letter to parliament.
