That might work well in an authoritarian system, but in Europe …
… the framework conditions are much more challenging. We have a culture of debate in Europe, with no clear pronouncements from the top, and with a middle management that talks everything into the ground. Yet people in Europe also want to be able to plan for the long term and have a vision for the future.
Should we learn from the Chinese?
Yes – when it comes to their decisiveness, their speed, and the resources they invest in research and development, new technologies, and start-ups. We need less lending in Europe and more venture capital. Access to venture capital is a lot easier in the US as well.
What trends are you seeing in education?
Already today, learning and education are no longer confined to established institutions. Apps, online courses, and virtual reality content will make learning not only independent of location but also multidimensional and available for a lifetime.
What societal framework conditions will it take for edutainment to really become widespread?
Traditional educational systems must evolve. Schools must be allowed to make use of these offers. Policymakers have to massively promote these educational opportunities. Society must learn to accept that its children immerse themselves in virtual worlds. In Germany, things are still the wrong way round. If a kid in kindergarten says that he or she spends the evening playing Minecraft, they or their parents are bound to get disapproving looks. When in reality, Minecraft is precisely the kind of environment in which children are prepared for virtual worlds and learn how to navigate them.