Will Democracy Ever Be Part of the Education System?: Traditional Education Getting Obsolete in the Age of Platforms

In a compelling debate hosted by Markus Lanz on the state of Germany's education system, often hailed as one of the most advanced in the world, critical questions were raised about its ability to meet the needs of future generations. Is the current curriculum equipped to provide learners with the skills necessary to thrive in an ever-changing job market? Or are we clinging to outdated methods that fail to prepare students for the challenges of the modern world?

To illustrate this issue, consider a historical analogy: Imagine a battlefield where soldiers fight with swords and bows while relying on their numbers and weaponry. In this setting, someone introduces a revolutionary gunpowder-based weapon, such as a semi-automatic gun. As soon as one soldier successfully uses this new tool in combat, others quickly observe, adapt, and abandon their outdated weapons in favor of the superior technology.

Now, apply this analogy to our modern education system. In a world where digital transformation is reshaping every aspect of business and a platform-based economy is the foundation of global transactions, the traditional education system appears increasingly obsolete. We live in an age of self-sustaining platforms that allow individuals to onboard, learn, and earn independently. How can we expect the next generation, raised on social media, instant communication, artificial intelligence, and Web 3.0 technologies, to engage meaningfully with an educational framework designed for a bygone era?

The New Reality of Learning and Earning

Platforms like YouTube, Coursera, TikTok, and others are creating ecosystems where learning and earning are seamlessly integrated. A teenager today can learn to code, develop a marketable skill, or build an audience through content creation—all without stepping into a traditional classroom. This shift reflects a fundamental change in how knowledge is accessed, shared, and monetized.

For younger generations, the old model of "study first, work later" no longer resonates. The pace of technological and societal change demands a more dynamic and iterative approach to learning, one that integrates real-world applications and adapts to the needs of a digitally connected global economy.

The Challenge for Education Leaders

Education leaders must acknowledge that the old system—while still functional for older generations—no longer appeals to or serves the needs of today’s learners. The mentality of the younger generation is shaped by tools and technologies that prioritize speed, collaboration, and innovation. These values are fundamentally at odds with an education system rooted in rigid curricula and linear progression.

This disconnect is a wake-up call. Leaders in education must recognize the urgency of this moment and embrace systemic changes to avoid a disruptive revolution. Key areas of focus should include:

1. Integrating Digital Skills into the Core Curriculum: Schools must teach not just how to use technology but also how to create and innovate with it. Coding, data analysis, and digital literacy should be foundational skills for all learners.
2. Fostering Lifelong Learning: The rapid pace of change means that no single degree or certification will suffice for an entire career. Educational systems must support continuous skill development throughout a person’s life.
3. Incorporating Democratic Principles: A truly democratic education system would empower learners to co-create their learning paths, engage in critical thinking, and participate actively in shaping their educational experiences. This could involve collaborative curriculum design, greater student agency, and mechanisms for real-time feedback and adaptation.
4. Leveraging Technology for Personalization: With AI and machine learning, we can create personalized learning experiences that cater to individual strengths, interests, and goals. This approach would help keep students engaged and motivated.

The Path Forward

The analogy of the battlefield reminds us that evolution is inevitable. Just as the sword and bow gave way to gunpowder, the traditional education system must give way to a model that embraces the realities of the digital age. This is not a call to abandon foundational knowledge but to rethink how it is delivered and integrated with emerging tools and methodologies.

The future of education lies in its ability to adapt, democratize, and prepare learners for a world that values creativity, adaptability, and collaboration. The time to act is now. By embracing change, we can ensure that the education system evolves gracefully rather than being forced into a disruptive overhaul.

The question remains: Will leaders seize this opportunity to revolutionize education, or will they wait until the old systems crumble under the weight of their inadequacies? Only time will tell.