Budget blues hit German rectors

Article Abstract:

Higher education in Germany needs reform and more money, according to rectors there. The 1993 budget only allows 1.8% funding increase. Staff/student ratios have grown from 11:1 to 26.1 in German universities since the 1970's. It is suggested that attending 'Fachhochschulen' (which are like British polytechnics) should be given priority over universities. The number of students has greatly increased in the last 20 years, without a corresponding increase in academic or support staff. Study places also need to be increased.

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Slow start in the age race

Article Abstract:

On average German degree course students spend two more years at university than their counterparts in other European countries. German universities are physically overcrowded, with 1.6 million students chasing 800,000 study areas. The teacher-student ratio is now 1:16. Some German states are seeking to cut admissions by making the university entrance examinations tougher.

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Bad marks; standards of teaching at German universities

Article Abstract:

Criticism is being levelled at the standards of teaching in some German universities. Poor teaching is being blamed on overcrowding and lack of investment in the universities. Student surveys point to a great deal of dissatisfaction with teaching methods and standards.

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