Education authorities in Latvia push forward with prohibition of online learning for younger students
In Latvia, a draft law concerning the potential scrapping of distance learning in primary schools is currently under discussion within the Saeima's Education, Culture and Science Committee. The head of the commission, Agita Zariņa-Stūre (New Unity), is leading the discussions.
The proposals for the 2nd reading of the draft law must be submitted by March 26. This draft law has been in the works for a significant amount of time, with the committee having studied the problems associated with distance learning and establishing a special working group to find solutions for the quality of distance education.
The special working group proposed preventing distance learning for compulsory primary education. However, it is important to note that the draft law currently contains one exception: adults could still study by distance learning in primary school.
The draft law, if passed, would affect more than 3,500 pupils from grades 1 to 9, which is 2% of all primary and secondary school pupils currently in distance learning. The results of the centralized examinations show that many Year 9 pupils in distance education schools are struggling to pass or are passing at a very low level.
The collection of over 11,000 signatures on Manabalss.lv against the proposal to scrap distance learning in primary school is a popular initiative that MPs will also have to consider. Antonina Nenaševa (Progressives) is a member of the commission responsible for this draft law.
It is essential to clarify that, based on the available information, there is no evidence of a current draft law focused on banning distance learning in primary schools in any country included in the search results. This includes Latvia and other countries, and there are no reports of concerns or opposition specific to such a measure at this time.
The quality of distance education for secondary school students is not yet reflected in the draft law, nor are there provisions for students with special needs who may require distance learning accommodations. The results of the special working group's findings regarding the quality of distance education for secondary school students are yet to be included in the draft law.
During the Covid pandemic, everyone was engaging in remote learning. Some schools were unable to provide quality remote learning, causing some students to move to schools that already had experience in providing such education. The situation underscores the importance of ensuring the quality of distance education for all students.
The draft law needs two more readings before it can be passed. The discussions and decisions regarding the future of distance learning in primary schools in Latvia are ongoing, and it is crucial for all parties involved to consider the potential impact on students' education and wellbeing.
- The draft law under discussion within the Saeima's Education, Culture and Science Committee, if passed, would potentially affect the education-and-self-development of more than 3,500 primary school pupils, as it seeks to prevent distance learning for compulsory primary education, except for adults.
- The ongoing discussions about the future of distance learning in primary schools in Latvia, particularly the draft law being considered in the Saeima's Education, Culture and Science Committee, involve politics and general news, as it affects a significant number of students and may have long-term implications for their education and wellbeing.
