Digital Skills of German Students Decline Despite Increased Tech Access

A new study reveals that 41% of German eighth graders struggle with basic computer skills, a significant rise from previous years.

The International Computer and Information Literacy Study highlights a worrying trend in declining digital competence among German students.
Despite improved technological infrastructure in schools, students' ability to handle digital information has decreased compared to ten years ago.
Only 1.1% of German eighth graders achieved the highest proficiency level in computer skills, down from 1.9% in 2018.
Students from disadvantaged backgrounds, particularly those with migrant histories, are most affected by this digital skills gap.
Germany ranks in the middle of international comparisons, with countries like South Korea and the Czech Republic outperforming in digital literacy.